Volume Pedal Technique Discussion

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Chao Kang Lee
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Joined: 12 Nov 2024 10:00 am
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Volume Pedal Technique Discussion

Post by Chao Kang Lee »

Hello everyone :)
I have a problem when using vp. I often play lloyd green's fast songs. Usually vp is not needed in these songs. Should I turn vp full open? Or does it have to be half? Because if it is fully turned on, the amp will breakup. Is it not possible to fully enable vp? Please tell me how you use it. Thank you all. :)
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Dan Kelly
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Post by Dan Kelly »

Hello!

I usually use the Volume Pedal (VP), or really what Maurice Anderson used to call the "expression pedal," on slow to moderate speed songs. In coordination with a "slow" execution of a change, one can really get some sweet expression that no other instrument can provide. The technique takes a little time to develop, but with a little attention and practice, it becomes second nature. It is definitely worth the the up front work.

I do not usually incorporate much VP action on fast songs because there is too much else for me to concentrate on. Also, there is just not enough time to "milk" the expression out of the song. I just keep the VP on about half volume and play to a volume that is appropriate for the back up.

I believe it is important to have the amp set loud enough so that the VP gets me the volume I need for most of the playing at about half way. That way, I have the necessary "headroom" to get the expression I want.
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Chao Kang Lee
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Post by Chao Kang Lee »

Dan Kelly wrote:Hello!

I usually use the Volume Pedal (VP), or really what Maurice Anderson used to call the "expression pedal," on slow to moderate speed songs. In coordination with a "slow" execution of a change, one can really get some sweet expression that no other instrument can provide. The technique takes a little time to develop, but with a little attention and practice, it becomes second nature. It is definitely worth the the up front work.

I do not usually incorporate much VP action on fast songs because there is too much else for me to concentrate on. Also, there is just not enough time to "milk" the expression out of the song. I just keep the VP on about half volume and play to a volume that is appropriate for the back up.

I believe it is important to have the amp set loud enough so that the VP gets me the volume I need for most of the playing at about half way. That way, I have the necessary "headroom" to get the expression I want.
Thank you Kelly So my maximum starting volume should be half or 3/4 of the vp, right?
So when people don’t need to use vp, they usually put vp in half or 3/4 position instead of full vp?
Thank you very much for your help :o
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Fred Treece
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Post by Fred Treece »

I don’t how you’re supposed to do it, but on an uptempo song I set the VP at the volume I need (as mentioned, somewhere between 50-75% of full-on), then take my foot off and try not to bump it.
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