Scales and sound

I have a small issue. I'm getting better and better at scales. What frustrates me is the sound of the guitar as I do the scale and lift my finger off the fret board to get to another string there is still a sound. Is that normal?

Are you talking about strings ringing/making noise even though its not the string you are currently fretting/picking? If so, the solution is to lightly mute the open strings with the heel of your picking hand as you play. This takes practice, but will rapidly become second nature. Also, if you're playing a guitar that uses a trem system, you'll have to be careful that muting doesn't push on the trem sending the guitar out of tune as you play.

You can also use your fingers on your fretting hand to mute strings, but that is more common when playing chords than scales.

Originally Posted by: mschula1023I have a small issue. I'm getting better and better at scales. What frustrates me is the sound of the guitar as I do the scale and lift my finger off the fret board to get to another string there is still a sound. Is that normal?

Hey... this sounds like a technique challenge. Clean sounds and smooth transitions between any notes on the same string or not is ideal. It's obviously bothering you enough to where you ask. No, I wouldn't say this is normal. Extra string sounds between notes is not desirable. Wish I was there to see exactly what you are talking about.

Wish I could offer more than encouragement and affirmation at this point, but unless I see OR hear your playing... I can't really offer much. Keep working for the SOUND you want. You'll figure it out. Best to you...

Hi,

I raised this whole issue with Neal Walter last month in the 'Ask Neal Walter' section - I got some tips and links there which may be of interest. I actually think that muting is a difficult skill!

Best wishes, Steve

I experienced string noise that was amplified by my amp. When I would shift notes it would be picked up loudly when my amp was turned up loud. I should mention I was playing a bass but this could apply to guitar. I turned up my noise gate and that got it under control.

Here are the links Neal poseted for Steve

Originally Posted by: Neal WalterHi Steve,

I don't know if you've seen these already but here's a couple more on stopping string noise:
http://www.guitartricks.com/lesson.php?input=14404

The tip in this one covers string noise:
http://www.guitartricks.com/lesson.php?input=19542