Playing techniques - String Bending

String bending adds a much more vocal touch to solos. By pressing the string upwards into the neck of the guitar you can create the impression that the guitar is wailing or crying. This example uses a phrase similar to that used by Eric Clapton at the beginning of Wonderful Tonight .

Try using two fingers to hold the string when bending for extra support. To do this, put your third finger at the fret you want to bend and put your second finger behind it at the previous fret. Bend by pushing with both fingers, being careful not to let the string slip. To practice this technique, re-work old phrases to either begin or end with a bend.

More articles on Playing Techniques

• Setting the scene
• Hammer-ons and pull-offs
• Staccato
• Sliding Notes
• String bending
• Double String bends