How to Read a Bend and Release on Guitar Tabs

A bend and release on the guitar is used to achieve a pitch that rises, then falls back down to the original pitch. Each fret on the guitar is ½ step. If the tab shows a 2 step bend, that means the note will sound 4 frets higher when you bend it. You can perform with any string.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Identify a bend and release by an upward-arched arrow. If the number above the arrow is 2, then it's a 2 step bend.

2. Press your finger onto the string and fret noted on the tab staff. If the number "4" is on the top line, then press the E-string down in the fourth fret.

3. Pluck the string to achieve the desired sound. This is both the starting and ending note of the bend and release.

4. Play the string and then, while maintaining pressure on the string, push it up to achieve the higher pitch. The higher you push the string, the higher the note will be.

5. Bring the string back down to its original position. Continue to press the string against the fret as you release it.

Tips & Warnings

• Your finger should stay in the same fret as you bend and release the note.