How to Learn Slide Guitar: Tuning and Techniques

Learning to play slide guitar can be a rewarding and challenging journey. It requires patience, a willingness to experiment, and the right combination of equipment and technique. In this guide, we'll explore how to start slide guitar, what tunings to consider, and the essential techniques you need to master.

Starting Your Slide Guitar Learning Journey

Many players are self-taught, starting their journey with online instructional videos. These resources can be invaluable in getting you started, but sometimes hands-on guidance from a teacher can make a significant difference. If you feel stuck, consider finding a teacher to help you refine your skills and stay motivated.

One common question is whether you need to downtune your guitar to play slide. While some players do use open tunings, you can start with your guitar in standard tuning. If you find standard tuning too challenging, you may need to adjust the action, string gauge, and even your fretboard radius to make slide playing more comfortable. However, starting with your guitar as is can be a good way to experiment and see what feels natural for you.

Another important aspect of slide guitar is selecting the right slide. Joseph Grossman's experience highlights the importance of finding a slide that fits well and is made of the right material. It's essential to try different slides and find the one that feels most comfortable and suits your playing style.

Ethnic First Considerations for Slide Playing

The first step in mastering slide guitar is choosing which finger to use for the slide. Some prefer the little finger, while others might use the ring or even the middle finger for better control. Once you decide on a finger, you can start experimenting with different types of slides. I generally recommend a regular glass slide, as they are versatile and can be adjusted to fit over various fingers. As you get more experience, you'll find a slide that works best for you.

Basic Slide Guitar Techniques

Once you have your slide and know which finger to use, it's time to focus on the techniques needed to play cleanly and in tune. The key is to start with single strings and make sure you hit the correct pitch. A useful trick is to first fret a note with your other fingers and then slide the same note to ensure you reach the correct pitch.

At the same time, you need to mute the strings you don't want to play. This can be done with the fingers behind the slide, using the palm of your picking hand, or even the fingers of your picking hand. Since it's not very common to use a flat pick for slide playing, you might want to experiment with hybrid picking techniques, combining your fingers and a flat pick. However, most slide players find that using only their fingers or a thumb pick and fingers works best.

Mastering these techniques takes time and patience. It's important to take your time and practice consistently. If you're struggling, consider taking lessons from a seasoned slide player or watching instructional videos on YouTube. A good teacher can provide valuable insights into how different factors like string gauge, fretboard radius, and action can affect your playing, and can also teach you essential muting techniques.

In conclusion, learning slide guitar is a journey that requires experimentation, patience, and the right equipment. By starting with standard tuning, choosing the right slide, and practicing basic slide techniques, you can begin to explore the unique sounds and expressions that slide guitar can offer. Happy sliding!