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Tab-learning strategies; share your approach to learning tabs.

Posted by Dustin Aurand on January 23, 2017 at 6:45pm in Performances, How to Play, Lessons, Concerts
Since 2017 has started, I've been trying to learn a song tab a week, just to add new songs to my repertoire, and challenge myself. I've learned that, on songs with lyrics, you can use the lyrics to know where you are, for example, Amazing Grace. How about instrumental songs, like Ashokan Farewell? What are your thoughts/approach for learning tabs? http://www.cigarboxguitar.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/AshokanFarewell.pdf

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Replies

  • Paul Craig January 26, 2017 at 1:28pm

    Instead of removing strings, you could tune the 3 low strings open in one key and the 3 high strings open in another key.

    Or tune all 6 open in the same key playing 3 in a lower octave.

    Lots of possibilities.

  • Dustin Aurand January 24, 2017 at 8:35am
    I'll learn the chords/theory first, before jumping into tabs. I was also thinking, however, learn the basic melodies, and make them my own. For example, a lot of the traditional songs like this would sound good in dulcimer style. Some spirituals would sound good played with a slide, like Amazing Grace, etc.
    • Dustin Aurand > Dustin Aurand January 24, 2017 at 9:02am
      Did anyone see the link that I posted, about turning a 6 string into a Seasick Steve guitar?
  • Rick Alexander January 23, 2017 at 11:10pm

    Would a video of Ashokan Farewell played slowly and close to the fretboard be of any help to you?

    • Ron "Oily" Sprague > Rick Alexander January 24, 2017 at 1:17am
      Rick,

      Yes it would! And for Dustin and everyone else's benefit, could you do one following the Gitty tab he referenced?
      • Rick Alexander > Ron "Oily" Sprague January 24, 2017 at 2:06am

        Yes, I'll do that.
        And, yes learning the chords first might be the way to go.

  • Ron "Oily" Sprague January 23, 2017 at 8:38pm
    When learning tabs, it does help to have some previous playing experience, as well as having learned the CAGED system, and how to make proper barre chords. This will allow you to figure out fingerings from what you already know. 3-string tabs are definitely simpler than 6-string, and it also helps to have heard the song before. If you've never heard the song, usually a quick YouTube search will get you several versions of the song in its original key. Many times, there are detailed instructional videos available, either for purchase, or free on YouTube, that will show you exactly how to play particular songs on 6-strings.
    • Dustin Aurand > Ron "Oily" Sprague January 23, 2017 at 9:26pm
      Thanks. Are there any lessons for that here? I'm somewhat self taught. I've always played slide.
      • Dustin Aurand > Dustin Aurand January 23, 2017 at 10:05pm
        Would learning the chords help, before getting into tabs?
This reply was deleted.