The Impact of Tablature on Modern Guitar Learning

The Rise of Tablature

Since the 1980s, tablature has been a staple learning tool for generations of guitar players. It provides a straightforward method for deciphering complex guitar solos and riffs from legendary musicians like Eddie Van Halen, Randy Rhoads, and Yngwie Malmsteen. While the convenience of tabs is undeniable, it comes with a significant drawback: reliance on visual cues can lead to a decline in a musician’s auditory skills.

Richie Faulkner’s Insights on Learning

In a recent appearance on The No Cover Charge Podcast, Richie Faulkner, the guitarist for Judas Priest, voiced his concerns regarding how younger guitarists are developing their skills. Rather than advocating for a gatekeeping approach to technique, Faulkner emphasizes the potential pitfalls of learning strictly from visual aids.

The Role of Muscle Memory

“If you use your ears… and I don’t know what you call it, when you know where everything is, or most things are: muscle memory,” Faulkner stated, as reported by Ultimate Guitar. He observed that many younger players rely heavily on their eyes for learning, depending on tablature to guide finger placement.

The Limitations of Tablature

While tabs excel at showing where to position fingers on the fretboard, they fall short in developing a musician’s ear. They do not teach players to discern subtle nuances, such as when a note is slightly flat or when a bend doesn’t quite reach its intended pitch. The experiential learning process involving trial, error, and correction is essential for honing timing, touch, and taste in playing.

The Importance of Active Listening

Faulkner elaborates on this point: “And if the tabs are wrong, they don’t hear that it’s wrong. What the tab says, that’s what it is. [Even] if it’s wrong. But if you can hear it, you’re not going to be that far out. And you can always bend it. And if you’re listening, you can always hit the right note.”

The Risk of Visual Learning

This perspective highlights a critical issue: if a tab incorrectly indicates a position shift or misrepresents a passing tone, players who have trained their ears may quickly recognize the mistake, whereas those who rely solely on visual cues may not. The ability to hear discrepancies allows musicians to adjust and improve their performance in real time.

Finding Balance in Learning Tools

Despite the concerns raised, it would be unwise to discard the use of tablature entirely. Tablature democratized music education in the 1980s, providing access to a wealth of songs that were previously difficult to learn without traditional notation. In today’s digital age, video tutorials and vast online resources have made it easier than ever to grasp complex solos. The key issue is not the tool itself, but rather how it is utilized in the learning process.

Conclusion

As guitarists navigate their musical journeys, it is essential to strike a balance between visual aids like tablature and the invaluable skill of active listening. Emphasizing ear training alongside the use of tabs can lead to a more well-rounded and intuitive understanding of music, ensuring that players develop both technical proficiency and a keen sense of musicality.

FAQs

1. What is tablature?

Tablature, or “tabs,” is a form of musical notation that indicates finger positioning on the guitar fretboard, making it easier for players to learn songs without needing to read traditional sheet music.

2. Why is ear training important for guitarists?

Ear training helps musicians develop the ability to recognize pitch, harmony, and rhythm, which are crucial for playing accurately and creatively. It fosters a deeper understanding of music beyond what is visually presented.

3. Can I use tablature and still develop my ear?

Absolutely! While tablature can serve as a helpful learning tool, it’s important to actively listen and practice recognizing notes and musical phrases to enhance your overall musicianship.

4. What are some effective ways to train my ear?

Listening to music, transcribing songs by ear, practicing scales, and using ear training apps are all effective methods for developing your auditory skills.