Here we are with number 2 in my series of little slide guitar lessons on the mistakes I see most frequently in new slide guitarists.
Mistake #2: "Auto-wobble" / tense vibrato
This one is of course related to the issue I discussed last week, of holding too much tension while playing. What I un-affectionately call the "auto-wobble" is the automatic tense jerky movements that come from being unsure of where the note is. It really messes the sound up. Some people try to pass it off as vibrato but vibrato should always be intentional and these movements are far from that. The big problem here is this "auto-wobble" quickly becomes a habit that needs to be undone. Luckily I have methods for combatting this that my Slide Success clients are getting a lot of benefit from (check out a preview of them here). Once we've got rid of the auto-wobble, I then give them my vocal vibrato training and it all comes together beautifully!
It all comes back to being able to play fluidly, with minimal tension. I also recommend some intense ear-training, so that you get comfortable and confident with playing in tune. Have a look at the preview of my course - you can click through to the “Drones For Eartraining” page from here: https://members.slidesuccess.co.uk/p/5-steps-to-slide-success
You can use my “Drones For Eartraining” page to give you a continuous drone - there are a few ideas for nice drones on there, and I provide a couple, one in D, one in G. So, let's start with the D drone. Really listen to it, get your guitar nice and in tune. Then play your D scale, very slowly, concentrating on each note. See if you can hear the detail in a single note, the layers, the overtones. Notice how being out of tune sounds unclear, like there is a messiness or interference going on. Then, when you get it truly in-tune, notice how everything clarifies, the turbulence calms, as all the overtones come into line.
If you practice this regularly, it will be of huge benefit to your playing. It is one of the most important and fundamental things you can do to improve not just your slide guitar playing, but your overall musicianship. I'd recommend you start each practice with an ear-training session - take it like a meditation, bringing yourself into your body and your playing, getting you away from all the distracting thoughts.
And of course, aim to play slowly and clearly - no auto-wobble! In fact, try and hold each note clearly, ready to make a smooth slide up or down if needed for tuning, but no frantic searching.
As ever, if you're struggling with this, don't hesitate to get in touch with me for some personalised help! I offer a free one-to-one session for all those keen to learn slide guitar. Simply book in for a friendly chat here, and we can talk gear, set up, auto-wobble, and whether we want to work together on this awesome way of playing guitar!
I look forward to hearing from you - and happy slide playing!
Phil