I’ve been hanging out and jamming with some guitar players recently and I was really taking notice of each players technique. Obviously everyone plays differently and no two players are exactly the same (thank God!).
After watching all the different player’s techniques and how they each execute I came up with a common thread among them all. It seems that the players that had a lighter touch played better. Their phrasing was more melodic and controlled which enabled them to be more expressive. Speed, dynamics and even versatility was enhanced as compared to the players that were heavy handed with their axes. As musicianship goes I noticed that the lighter touch bunch also knew when to lay back, leave some space and did not play as loud.
A lighter touch also helps with the overall tone as well. I noticed that their rigs just sounded better, clearer with more warmth, breath and texture. There seemed to be more tones available without even hitting a stompbox pedal. I think this is why a lot of people say “tone comes from your hands”. I partially agree with this and that may be another article altogether. The overall tone was just more musical which to me is what we are all striving for as players.
So, from my observation it seems that having a lighter more nimble touch will greatly enhance your playing ability and vocabulary. It will also improve your tone without spending a dime. Not to mention help prevent repetitive motion issues like tendonitis or the dreaded carpal tunnel. No sense in killin’ the guitar (or your hands) and all its wonderful tones by playing too hard. Lighten up and let the music flow….!
Hey Robbie Calvo…what do you think..??
My shop is located at 1 Executive Dr Unit L Toms River, NJ 08755
Please feel free to email me if you have any questions or are in need of some tech work.
- Monday: 10am - 5pm
- Tuesday: 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 10am - 5pm
- Friday: 10am - 5pm
- Saturday 10am - 2pm. (I am in every other Saturday).
I am also an Eminence, Mercury Magnetics, Mojo Musical Supply dealer.
I do all the tech work myself so you deal directly with me. I am a one man shop and my hours can vary so please contact me to confirm that I will be open.
Email me: billy@300guitars.com
Call or text me: 848-218-0362
Shipping Info for all repair work:
Please ship all repairs to: 1 Executive Dr Unit L Toms River, NJ 08755
I am currently offering all phases of guitar work which includes:
- Set-ups
- Fret dressing
- Re-fretting
- New hand cut custom bone nuts & saddles
- Electronics work
And amplifier work which includes:
- Basic maintenance
- Bias adjustment
- Repairs and restorations
- Modifications
- And more....
Testimonials:
David Nicholas - The 20watt amp is sounding fantastic! Delivered the goods at the gig and I'm finding cool tones all over the place with it. Love the cab w Emenince Tonkerlites too- perfect for my sounds! Makes the 12 string sound like a grand piano!
Peter Lacis - I had an audition for something recently that was all about Led Zeppelin I -- my custom Pennalizer BLEW THE MINDS of the guys I was playing with. They couldn't believe the sounds coming out of that amp. That album was never in my mind when I came up with the idea....so that's yet another testament to the amazing work that you do.
Scott Goldberg - I am very satisfied with the set-up, and the fast turn around. With the "lower" action it feels easier to play. I will definitely spread the word.