How to Get Better at Bending on the Guitar

Bending notes on the guitar is one of those skills that can take your playing from flat to flavorful. Whether you’re trying to nail that killer solo or add some soul to your riffs, mastering the art of bending is crucial. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of getting better at bending, with tips and tricks that cater to both beginners and seasoned players alike.

The Basics of Bending

Let’s start with the fundamentals. Bending a string means you’re pushing or pulling it across the fretboard, effectively raising its pitch. The goal? To hit the desired note with precision, whether it’s a half-step, whole-step, or even more. It’s like adding a little vocal inflection to your playing, making it sing.

Here’s how you can think about it: When you’re bending a string, picture you’re stretching a rubber band. The more you stretch it, the higher the pitch. But be careful not to overdo it. Like a rubber band, strings can only stretch so far before they snap—or in this case, just sound off-key.

Start practicing bends on the third string (G string) around the seventh fret. This area is usually more forgiving and will help you get a feel for the tension required. Use your index and middle fingers to support the bend, giving you more control and reducing strain.

Choosing the Right Strings

Believe it or not, the strings you use can significantly impact your bending. Lighter gauge strings are easier to bend, which might be a relief for your fingers if you’re just starting out. However, too light and you might lose some of the tonal richness. On the flip side, heavier strings offer a fuller sound but need more muscle to bend.

Think of it as choosing the right shoes for a hike. You want something comfortable that doesn’t compromise on performance. Experiment with different gauges until you find your sweet spot. Consider starting with a set that’s a bit lighter than what you normally use, and gradually work your way up as your fingers strengthen.

It’s worth mentioning that many of the world’s best metal guitarists, like those teaching at Riffhard, often have specific preferences for string gauges based on the subgenre they specialize in. This might give you some insight into what could work for you.

Developing Finger Strength

Finger strength is crucial for bending, especially if you’re aiming for those full-step bends or even more ambitious stretches. The stronger your fingers, the more control you’ll have over your bends. Here are a few exercises to build that strength:

• Finger Push-ups: Place your fingers on the fretboard as if you’re playing a chord, then press down and release repeatedly. It’s like doing mini push-ups with your fingers.
• Spider Walks: Move your fingers up and down the fretboard in a spider-like motion. It’s great for building dexterity and strength.
• Trills: Pick two frets on any string and hammer-on and pull-off as fast as you can. This not only strengthens your fingers but also improves speed and accuracy.

Consistency is key here. Spend a few minutes each day doing these exercises, and you’ll notice a significant improvement in your bending abilities over time.

Nailing the Pitch

Once you’ve got the basics down, the next step is ensuring your bends hit the right pitch. This is where your ear training comes into play. You want your bends to sound intentional, not like a cat wailing in the night.

Start by playing the target note you want your bend to reach. For example, if you’re bending from the seventh fret on the G string, play the ninth fret first to hear the pitch. Then, bend up to match that note. This might feel a bit like trying to hit the right note while singing, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

An excellent way to improve your pitch accuracy is to record yourself. Listen back and critique your bends. Are they sharp? Flat? Getting that instant feedback is invaluable.

Adding Vibrato to Your Bends

Once you’re comfortable with bending, adding vibrato can make your playing even more expressive. Vibrato gives your bends that vocal-like quality, adding emotion and character to your notes.

To get started, try adding a slight circular motion to your bends. Think of it as gently shaking the note at the top of the bend. This can be tricky at first, but with some patience, you’ll get the hang of it.

Much like bending, vibrato can vary greatly among guitarists. Some prefer a subtle, slow vibrato, while others go for a wide, dramatic effect. Check out lessons from some of the best in the business, like those at Riffhard, to see different styles and find what resonates with you.

Practicing with Backing Tracks

One of the best ways to practice bending is by playing along with backing tracks. This not only makes practice more enjoyable but also helps you develop a sense of timing and context for your bends.

Choose tracks in different keys and tempos to challenge yourself. Focus on bending in tune and adding vibrato where it fits naturally. Over time, you’ll start to develop your unique style and phrasing.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to play the notes but to make them feel alive. Backing tracks are an excellent tool for experimenting with different bends and seeing what works best in a musical context.

Using Bends in Different Genres

Bending isn’t just for blues or rock – it’s a versatile technique used across various genres, including metal. The approach might differ slightly, but the core concept remains the same.

In metal, bends are often used for dramatic effect, helping to create tension and release within a solo. They can be combined with techniques like tapping or sweeping for added flair. Check out players like Zakk Wylde or Dave Davidson for inspiration on incorporating bends into your metal playing.

Experiment with different styles and see how bends can elevate your playing, whether you’re riffing in a death metal band or shredding in a progressive metal solo.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

As with any skill, there are common pitfalls guitarists might encounter when learning to bend. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them:

• Overbending: It’s easy to get carried away and bend too far. Always aim for precision. Use a tuner if necessary to check your pitch.
• Underbending: Equally problematic is not bending far enough. Again, ear training is essential. Play along with a backing track or a metronome to ensure you’re on point.
• Straining: If your fingers hurt, you might be using too much force. Remember, bending is about control, not brute strength. Use your wrist and arm to assist the bend, not just your fingers.

Awareness is the first step to improvement. By recognizing these common mistakes, you can work on avoiding them and refining your technique.

Learning from the Best

One of the best ways to improve your bending is by learning from those who’ve mastered it. Study the greats, whether it’s through online lessons or watching live performances. Platforms like Riffhard offer access to lessons from some of the world’s top metal guitarists, providing insights into their techniques and styles.

Pay attention to how different players approach bends. Do they add vibrato? How do they incorporate bends into their solos? What kind of emotion do they convey through their bending?

Use these insights to inspire your playing and personalize your approach to bending. After all, the goal is to find your voice on the guitar and make it sing.

Final Thoughts

Bending is a powerful tool in a guitarist’s arsenal, offering a way to express emotion and add depth to your playing. By focusing on technique, practicing consistently, and learning from the best, you’ll be bending notes with confidence and finesse in no time. If you’re looking to elevate your metal guitar skills further, we offer lessons from some of the world’s top metal guitarists on Riffhard, where you can dive deeper into the art of bending and beyond.