I know this is off topic, but since we are in an off topic board I figure this would be ok.

I have always enjoyed steel guitar coming from bands like the Doobie Brothers when they had John McFee. As a guitarist who has never been anywhere within a mile of a steel pedal guitar, I would sure appreciate anyone sharing how these things work. I understand you use a metal bar in lieu of fingers. But, how do you rip through the scales with that? Not having access to one nor the cash ($1200 for a Starter Carter) I cannot figure out the logic on my own. I listen to a player like John Mcfee and stand in awe over how they can play that thing.

With the guitar, you are taught you have positions where you can maximize your melodies while minimizing your mobility (running up and down the fretboard). But, how is that accomplished when you pick up the bar and now have taken away the finger play? I realize you can alternate the tuning from standard to make a vertical single fret chord such as in D tuning. Yet, when the player departs from chords and plays melodies I don't have a clue how they do that.

Thanks for taking the time to explain to this finger player.
RickeG

Last edited by RickeG; 07/16/09 11:40 AM.