Country String Bends Pt.2

In this masterclass, Lyle Brewer dives into the world of country guitar playing, focusing on the art of string bending and outlining chord changes to achieve that classic country sound. Lyle starts by sharing a bit about his personal life, mentioning his time with his kids and how touching his guitar an hour before the masterclass inspired him. He swiftly transitions into the heart of the lesson, drawing from the previous week's discussion on country string bands. The essence of his teaching in this segment is that mastering a few well-tuned string bends can significantly enhance one’s musical expression within the country genre, without the need for overly complex techniques.

Lyle emphasizes the musicality behind string bending, suggesting that a simple line executed with precision can be as effective as more complex sequences. He argues for focusing on the musical aspects of these lines, advocating for the mastery of a few bends to use them freely in playing. This approach, according to Lyle, aids in sounding authentic within the country music landscape. He then proceeds to demonstrate how to play country string bending lines, using triads in the key of A as a foundation. Lyle's instruction includes practical tips on achieving the right sound through bending, aiming to make the guitar outline the chord changes clearly and melodically.

Throughout the masterclass, Lyle provides hands-on examples, including playing techniques and exercises to help viewers grasp the concepts being discussed. He meticulously explains how to position fingers and execute bends to mimic the pedal steel sounds characteristic of country music, using triads to enrich the harmony. The lesson is packed with valuable insights on using string bends not just for embellishment but as a tool for defining harmonic context. By the end of the masterclass, viewers are equipped with a deeper understanding of how to incorporate string bends into their country guitar playing, enhancing their ability to convey musical ideas effectively.