Pedal steel guitar

The pedal steel guitar is an iconic string instrument from country music, known for its sliding, expressive sound.

About this subject

The pedal steel guitar is a string instrument played with picks and a steel bar, distinguished by its pedal and lever mechanism that alters string tuning during performance. Unlike the traditional Hawaiian lap steel, the pedal steel has legs and a complex system of pulls that allow instant pitch changes, creating characteristic glissandos and bends.

Its origins trace back to early 20th century Hawaii, where local musicians developed the technique of playing guitar horizontally with a metal bar. In the 1930s and 1940s, the instrument was adopted into American country music, particularly honky-tonk and Western swing. The addition of pedals and levers, popularized by manufacturers like Fender and Sho-Bud, transformed the pedal steel into a versatile instrument capable of mimicking harmonica or violin sounds.

In Brazilian music, the pedal steel is less common but appears in recordings by artists like Sérgio Reis and Renato Teixeira, typically in traditional sertanejo music. Internationally, greats like Buddy Emmons, Lloyd Green, and Robert Randolph elevated the instrument to new heights, expanding its use into rock, jazz, and blues. The pedal steel is also famous for its role in classic rock songs such as "Teach Your Children" by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

Interestingly, the name "pedal steel" derives from the use of pedals and the bar material (steel), though modern bars are usually stainless steel or chrome. The most common tuning is E9 with 10 strings, but variations like C6 exist for jazz. The instrument requires careful maintenance, as its system of springs and cables is sensitive to temperature and humidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between pedal steel and lap steel?

Lap steel is played on the lap or a simple stand without pedals, using a steel bar to slide over strings. Pedal steel has pedals and levers that activate internal mechanisms to change string tuning during play, allowing greater harmonic complexity.

Which music genres use pedal steel guitar?

It is most associated with American country music, especially honky-tonk, Western swing, and country rock. It is also used in gospel, blues, rock (e.g., 1970s bands), and occasionally in jazz and Brazilian sertanejo music.

How many strings does a standard pedal steel have?

The most common model has 10 strings, tuned to E9. Variations with 12 or 14 strings exist for players seeking greater range, and C6 tuning is popular for jazz and Hawaiian music.