The Slide
The slide is another way of producing a note artificially with the left hand. After a note is played, the left hand finger fretting the note slides to another fret, maintaining the pressure on the string. The fretting finger must not lift off the string. If played correctly, the note will sound at the fret where the finger stops. A slide is indicated by a straight line and the symbol S. To play the following example, first play the note on the 3rd fret, 2nd string. Immediately after the string has sounded slide to the 5th fret.
In the following arrangement of Frankie and Johnny a slide is used on the second string. This slide occurs as the left hand changes from a basic G chord to a G bar chord on the 3rd fret. This slide is highlighted in the next example. Special attention should be given to the suggested left hand fingering.
Now try the arrangement to Frankie and Johnny. This arrangement incorporates several techniques that were outlined in earlier lessons, in particular the use of bass runs. It is essential that you take careful note of the recommended left hand fingering.
The next song is a traditional American Folk song called Shenandoah.
The next arrangement has a bass line that makes use of eighth notes and sixteenth notes.
In the previous songs you learned how to combine a melody on the treble strings with a bass line and fingerpicking pattern. It is also possible to combine a melody played on the bass strings with a fingerpicking pattern. First practice the melody to Scarborough Fair.
The following arrangement to Scarborough Fair combines the melody line, played on the bass strings with an arpeggio picking pattern played on the treble strings.
The next example is a solo arrangement of the traditional Folk song Greensleeves.
The final piece in this book is also a solo arrangement. The tune El Condor Pasa is a traditional Folk song from South America.
The following arrangement mainly uses basic chords within the first four frets. There are however three bar chords used in this piece that have not been used in the book. A C bar chord (root 5 major) is played on the 3rd fret. An F bar chord (root 5 major) is played on the 8th fret. A C bar chord (root 6 major) is played on the 8th fret. These shapes first appeared on page 40. Study the following diagrams which also highlight an extra note that will be added to each chord shape.
