Reading guitar tabs (tablature) is a common way for guitarists to learn songs. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Understanding the Tab Layout
Six Lines Represent Strings: The six horizontal lines represent the six strings of the guitar. The top line is the high E string (thinnest string), and the bottom line is the low E string (thickest string).
e|--| ← High E (1st string)
B|--| ← B (2nd string)
G|--| ← G (3rd string)
D|--| ← D (4th string)
A|--| ← A (5th string)
E|--| ← Low E (6th string)
Fret Numbers
Numbers on the Lines: The numbers indicate which fret to press down on that string. A “0” means you play the string open (without pressing any fret).
Example:
e|---0---2---3----------| B|---1---3---0----------|
G|---0---2---0----------|
D|---2---0---0----------|
A|---3---0---2----------|
E|---x-------3----------|This example shows a basic C chord, D chord followed by a G chord.
Reading from Left to Right
Sequence of Notes: Tabs are read from left to right, similar to standard sheet music. Play the notes in the order they appear.
Chords and Multiple Notes
Stacked Numbers: When numbers are stacked vertically, they should be played simultaneously, representing a chord.
Example:
e|---0------------------| B|---1------------------|
G|---0------------------|
D|---2------------------|
A|---3------------------|
E|----------------------|This shows a C major chord
Special Techniques
Hammer-ons (h): When you see a “h” between two notes (e.g., 5h7), you should pluck the first note and then press down on the second note without plucking again.
Pull-offs (p): Similar to a hammer-on, but you pull your finger off the string to let the lower note ring out (e.g., 7p5).
Slides (/ or \): A slash indicates a slide. For example, 5/7 means slide from the 5th fret to the 7th fret.
Bends (b): A “b” followed by a number indicates a bend. For example, 7b9 means bend the 7th fret note up to match the pitch of the 9th fret.
Vibrato (~): A tilde after a number indicates vibrato. This means you should wobble the note slightly to create a vibrating sound.
Rhythm and Timing
Not Indicated: Guitar tabs don’t typically show rhythm or timing, so it’s important to listen to the song to understand when and how long to play each note.
Example of a Simple Tab: Here’s how “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” might look in tab form:
e|--0--0--7--7--9--9--7-|
B|----------------------|
G|----------------------|
D|----------------------|
A|----------------------|
E|----------------------|
By understanding these basics, you can start reading guitar tabs and learning songs quickly.