Here is a simple explanation of how tab works:
If we take the six strings of a guitar and write them
down on paper they will look like this:
E:-------------------- > FIRST STRING
B:-------------------- > SECOND STRING
G:-------------------- > THIRD STRING
D:-------------------- > FOURTH STRING
A:-------------------- > FIFTH STRING
E:-------------------- > SIXTH STRING
Numbers placed on a string indicate which FRET you
will play.
0 = OPEN
1 = 1ST FRET
2 = 2ND FRET
3 = 3RD FRET
(etc.)
Try playing the following tab exercise:
E:|----------------------------------------
B:|----------------------------------------
G:|-------------------------------0---2----
D:|---------------0--------2---3-----------
A:|----0---2---3---------------------------
E:|----------------------------------------
When you are in first position you will use your first finger to play the notes on the first fret, second finger/second fret, third finger/third fret, and so on.
The finger you use will always correspond with the fret you are on when you are playing in first position.
If you shift your hand so that your first finger is playing the notes on the second fret, second finger/third fret, third finger/fourth fret, etc. then you are in second position. Your position on the guitar is always determined by your first finger.
If you play the excercise correctly you will have an A Minor Scale:
A B C D E F G A
LESSON OBJECTIVE:
To learn how to read and use guitar tab to play songs.
PRACTICE:
Tablature Exercise
LEARN MORE:
What Is Tablature?
Go To The Next Lesson: TUNING THE GUITAR
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