First Lessons Lap Steel Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Started

The lap steel guitar is a unique and versatile instrument that offers a wide range of sounds and playing techniques. It's a great choice for beginners who want to learn a new instrument, as it's relatively easy to learn the basics. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know to get started with the lap steel guitar, including:

• Choosing the right lap steel guitar
• Setting up your lap steel guitar
• Learning basic lap steel guitar techniques
• Playing your first lap steel guitar songs

Choosing the Right Lap Steel Guitar

There are many different types of lap steel guitars available, so it's important to choose the one that's right for you. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

First Lessons Lap Steel Guitar

by Roger Hickman

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21241 KB
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Print length	:	40 pages
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• Size: Lap steel guitars come in a variety of sizes, from small to large. If you're a beginner, it's best to start with a smaller lap steel guitar, as it will be easier to handle.
• Number of strings: Lap steel guitars typically have 6 or 8 strings. 6-string lap steel guitars are more common, but 8-string lap steel guitars offer a wider range of sounds.
• Construction: Lap steel guitars can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. Wooden lap steel guitars are the most common, but metal lap steel guitars are more durable and plastic lap steel guitars are more affordable.
• Price: Lap steel guitars range in price from $100 to $1,000. It's important to set a budget before you start shopping, so you don't overspend.

Once you've considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. If you're not sure what type of lap steel guitar to buy, it's a good idea to talk to a sales associate at a local music store. They can help you choose a lap steel guitar that's right for your needs and budget.

Setting Up Your Lap Steel Guitar

Once you've chosen your lap steel guitar, it's time to set it up. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Tune your lap steel guitar: Lap steel guitars are typically tuned to a specific tuning, such as open G or open D. You can find the tuning for your lap steel guitar in the user manual or online.
• Adjust the action: The action on a lap steel guitar is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. You can adjust the action by turning the truss rod, which is located at the headstock of the guitar.
• Set the pickup height: The pickup height on a lap steel guitar affects the volume and tone of the instrument. You can adjust the pickup height by turning the screws that are located on the pickup housing.

Once you've set up your lap steel guitar, you're ready to start playing.

Learning Basic Lap Steel Guitar Techniques

There are a variety of different techniques that you can use to play the lap steel guitar. Here are a few of the most basic:

• Slides: Slides are a fundamental lap steel guitar technique. To perform a slide, simply place your finger on one of the strings and slide it up or down the fretboard.
• Bends: Bends are another essential lap steel guitar technique. To perform a bend, simply place your finger on one of the strings and push it up or down towards the fretboard.
• Vibrato: Vibrato is a technique that adds a vibrato effect to your notes. To perform vibrato, simply move your finger back and forth on the string.
• Hammer-ons: Hammer-ons are a technique that allows you to play a note without picking it. To perform a hammer-on, simply hit the string with your finger.
• Pull-offs: Pull-offs are a technique that allows you to play a note without picking it. To perform a pull-off, simply pull your finger off the string.

These are just a few of the many techniques that you can use to play the lap steel guitar. With a little practice, you'll be able to master these techniques and start playing your favorite songs.

Playing Your First Lap Steel Guitar Songs

Once you've learned a few basic techniques, you're ready to start playing your first lap steel guitar songs. Here are a few beginner-friendly songs to get you started:

• "Sleep Walk" by Santo & Johnny
• "Wipe Out" by The Surfaris
• "Pipeline" by The Chantays
• "Miserlou" by Dick Dale
• "Surfin' USA" by The Beach Boys

These songs are all relatively easy to play, and they will help you to practice your basic techniques. As you practice, you'll start to develop your own unique style and sound.

The lap steel guitar is a unique and versatile instrument that is perfect for beginners. In this article, we have provided you with everything you need to know to get started with the lap steel guitar, including choosing the right lap steel guitar, setting up your lap steel guitar, learning basic lap steel guitar techniques, and playing your first lap steel guitar songs. With a little practice, you'll be able to master the basics of the lap steel guitar and start playing your favorite songs.

First Lessons Lap Steel Guitar

by Roger Hickman

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21241 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	40 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE