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Topic: Bar Control Technique and Tips - with lots of pictures |
Casey Saulpaugh
From:
Asheville, NC
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Posted 6 Aug 2016 9:08 am |
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Since the volume pedal technique thread had such good tips and advice from everyone, I thought I'd start a new one for bar control.
Check out this bar control technique page, which dives in-depth into controlling the bar:
http://playpedalsteel.com/technique/bar-control/
I hope this helps players gain a better understanding of bar control, and the various components involved with it. 
Any other ideas, tips, or thoughts on this technique?
Casey
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https://playpedalsteel.com - An online resource for steel guitar. Download a FREE Pedal Steel Practice Book! |
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Bob Hoffnar
From:
Austin, Tx
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Posted 6 Aug 2016 9:51 am
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I have found that new players and students tend to force there vibrato or just do it constantly. I tend to suggest that it is better to practice without vibrato at all until
you can play in tune and have a relaxed but controlled left hand. Make the vibrato sing and express and not be an automatic wiggle. That way your vibrato can be your own voice.
Also from a working players perspective every time i use vibrato or slide a note I draw attention to myself. That is a good way to take attention away from the singer and a good way to become expendable or have your phrase edited out.
Btw, great site ! For for essential Lloyd Green I would list "live at panther hall " and Johnny paycheck "Little darlin years". The panther hall recording is an absolute must. The byrds thing is cool but not in the same league.
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Bob |
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DG Whitley
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Posted 6 Aug 2016 6:59 pm
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This is one time I respectfully disagree with you Bob. Jeff Newman taught me that vibrato is the "breath" of the steel. I've always tried to follow his example on vibrato when I play. If a singer is that insecure because of applying vibrato, I don't think I want that job to begin with.
Just my 2 cents Bob, not trying to offend you, just my belief. |
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Paul Sutherland
From:
Placerville, California
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Posted 7 Aug 2016 1:05 am
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Most amateur steel players use too much vibrato. If you study videos of top pros you will see a lot less vibrato being used. I agree with Bob.
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It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing. |
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Casey Saulpaugh
From:
Asheville, NC
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Posted 7 Aug 2016 9:02 pm
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Thanks for the input ya'll. Bob, I'm going to add those recordings to the Lloyd Green page thanks for the recommendations.
I wasn't really aware of vibrato until after playing for a year or so, I was just concerned with trying to get anything good sounding to come out of the pedal steel. I was playing in a band with friends and hadn't had time yet to really practice or properly study the instrument. Looking back I'm glad I jumped into playing with a group so early. My right hand blocking is what really struggled in those days. 
I think in these beginning stages I was more focused on keeping the bar straight, and moving between positions. Bar pressure and vibrato seemed to come more natural for me then and now. I look to Buddy Emmons, Derek Trucks, and Aretha Franklin for vibrato inspiration. They all have a good grasp on it. 
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https://playpedalsteel.com - An online resource for steel guitar. Download a FREE Pedal Steel Practice Book! |
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Bob Hoffnar
From:
Austin, Tx
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Posted 7 Aug 2016 9:10 pm
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DG, I know what you are saying. Use vibrato all you want if it's working for you. What I am talking about has nothing to do with insecure singers. It's about making conscious musical choices.
Another way of putting it is sliding notes and vibrato can put you on the surface of the music and that is not always called for. It is the same as steel players squeezing into a chord with the a/b pedals every time it is physically possible instead of when it has some sort of musical purpose.
its hard to explain but I like it better when I play what I am hearing and singing in my head.
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Bob |
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