Welcome to this comprehensive guide on holding the slide when playing the guitar. Slide playing is an art form in itself, with many techniques and methods developed over time. But the starting point is often, how do I hold the slide for playing slide guitar? While there are numerous ways to approach this, today I'll share with you my favourite technique for holding the slide, along with alternative methods.
Achieving Sensitivity and Control
The objective when using a slide is to maintain as much sensitivity in your hand as possible. When you put a slide on your finger, you introduce a foreign element that can reduce that sensation you're accustomed to as a guitarist. To counter this, holding the slide so that you retain maximum control and sensitivity is crucial.
Holding the Slide on the Little Finger
My preferred approach is to wear the slide on the little finger. This allows the hand to maintain its natural curved position, critical for regular playing techniques. Even though the ring and middle fingers can also be used, let's explore the little finger method first.
When you position the slide on your little finger, it should rest midway between the knuckles—let's call them knuckle one and knuckle two. This ensures that the curve of your fingers remains unaffected, preserving the natural hand position conducive to both fretting and sliding.
Some slide players make the mistake of pushing the slide all the way down the finger. While effective, it straightens the finger and restricts movement, causing discomfort and limiting note play. By adjusting the slide to stop at knuckle two, you maintain flexibility and ease in sliding motion.
Choosing the Right Slide
The type of slide significantly affects your playing. For instance, a slide with more internal space allows the finger to remain naturally curved. In contrast, tight-fitting slides straighten the finger due to lack of space. Consider using slides with cutaways or caps that prevent overlap onto the knuckles for optimal performance.
Exploring Other Fingers
It's not just about the finger on which you wear the slide—consider the roles of other fingers too. Supporting the slide with the ring finger helps secure it, while the middle finger can be used for muting.
Importance of Thumb and Index Finger
Both indices and thumb are crucial for control. The thumb should be gently resting on the neck's back, providing crucial contact aiding vibrato movements. The index finger functions as a muting tool, especially for unwanted ghost notes from the slide. Together, they act like a braking system, helping control the slide's pressure and movement.
Alternative Slide Positions
For those interested in ring finger use, it’s common to rest the slide around the second knuckle. This position supports the slide and aids natural hand movement. The thumb and index finger maintain similar roles—providing stability and enabling vibrato.
For the middle finger, popularized by players like Bonnie Raitt, the method is more straightforward. The thumb and index finger work in tandem, while the slide’s relative simplicity allows easy muting and control.
Conclusion
Remember, each guitarist is unique, with different hand shapes and movements. Experiment with these concepts to discover what feels most natural for you. Whether you prefer the little, ring, or middle finger for your slide, perfecting your grip will elevate your playing. Enjoy experimenting, and keep in mind there’s no one-size-fits-all. Keep strumming and sliding to find your ultimate groove!
