String noise

Inguitarandstring instrumenttechnique,string noiseis thenoisecreated by the movement of thefingersof one hand (usually the left hand) against thestrings,such as whenshiftingon one string, or changing from one string to another.

String noise is often an unwanted side-effect that musicians try to avoid or minimize, especially when playing with amplification ordistortion(as on anelectric guitar). However, string noise can be intentionally used or emphasized as astylistic choice.

String noise is generally relatively quiet but parallel string motion brings out higher, more dissonant harmonics than perpendicular string motion. However this should not be confused with parallel rather than perpendicular bowing, which is relatively quite loud and harsh.

If the pressure was consistent then the result would be aglissando.However, if the pressure is eliminated, then string noise does not result but the movement is more difficult. On fretted string instruments, the frets guide the movement of the hand, making the movement easier, but the frets increase the amount of contact, makingfret noisemore difficult to avoid.