TECHNIQUE FOCUS

Finger Vibrato

A good vibrato is one of the holy grails for sounding like a sophisticated soloist. On the electric guitar we typically apply vibrato to the note by bending it sharp and then back to pitch. To help develop a consistent vibrato first pull the string sharp, release this bend back to pitch and then bend back up. When you have completed this movement release back down to the original pitch. Repeat as required. This will feel like you are massaging the note up and down along the fretwire. This method differs to that of a classical guitar where the finger pushes and pulls the note sharp and flat with the friction of the finger along the string. Marty’s signature vibrato can be appreciated in terms of width, rate and further enhancements. His vibrato has a singing, crying quality (a semitone width is typical) and often in time with the music. It can be added immediately to a fretted note or delayed for extra drama. To enable his notes to sing he often likes to add vibrato to a semitone or tone string bend; reach the desired note then apply vibrato by releasing and increasing the bend in a repeated process. The timing and width of this vibrato can vary but 16th-note vibrato rhythm is evident on Majestical. As regards further enhancements, he also likes to use quick double bends plus vibrato as well as pre-bends plus vibrato (bend the string silently to the required pitch, pick the bent note, apply vibrato). If you’re a fan of vibrato, studying Marty will make a big impact on your playing.