The whammy bar, also known as a tremolo arm or vibrato arm, is a unique guitar accessory that allows players to manipulate the pitch of notes and create a range of special effects. This technique, popularized by guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Eddie Van Halen, adds a distinctive style and flair to guitar playing. Here’s a guide to the whammy bar technique and how it can transform your guitar sound:
1. Understanding the Whammy Bar:
- The whammy bar is a lever attached to the bridge of the guitar. When you push or pull the bar, it applies tension to the strings, altering their pitch.
2. Basic Techniques:
- Dive Bombs: Pushing the whammy bar down causes the pitch of the notes to drop dramatically. This technique is known as a dive bomb and can create a dramatic, crashing effect.
- Pull-Ups: Pulling the whammy bar up increases the pitch of the notes. This is often used for subtle pitch bends and expressive vibrato.
3. Creating Vibrato:
- The whammy bar can be used to create expressive vibrato by gently wobbling or shaking it while holding a note or chord. This technique adds a warm and expressive quality to your playing.
4. Using Harmonics:
- Combining harmonics with the whammy bar can produce ethereal and otherworldly sounds. By lightly touching the strings at specific nodal points and then using the whammy bar, you can create haunting harmonic swells.
5. Synchronized Tremolo Systems:
- Some guitars come equipped with synchronized tremolo systems like the Floyd Rose. These systems allow for more extreme whammy bar effects, including dive bombs, flutters, and warbles. They also provide tuning stability when using the whammy bar.
6. Pitch Shifting and Special Effects:
- The whammy bar can be used creatively to produce pitch-shifting effects. For example, pushing the bar down while picking a note can simulate the sound of a record slowing down.
7. Experimentation and Creativity:
- The key to mastering the whammy bar technique is experimentation. Try different combinations of pushing, pulling, wobbling, and bending to discover unique sounds and effects.
8. Proper Setup and Tuning:
- It’s crucial to have your guitar properly set up and in tune when using the whammy bar, as it can affect the guitar’s intonation and tuning stability.
The whammy bar technique can be a powerful tool for adding creativity and expression to your guitar playing. It allows you to go beyond conventional guitar techniques and create unique sounds and textures. Whether you’re aiming for subtle vibrato or mind-bending dive bombs, the whammy bar can transform your guitar sound with style and innovation.
