How to Read Guitar Tabs for Kids

Guitar tabs are like a secret code for rockstars, and if you’re just starting out, they might seem a bit puzzling. But don’t worry! Once you get the hang of reading guitar tabs, it’ll open up a whole new world of music. This guide is here to help kids (and maybe some adults) crack the code and start playing their favorite tunes in no time.

What Exactly Are Guitar Tabs?

First things first, let’s talk about what guitar tabs actually are. Imagine a secret recipe for your favorite snack—guitar tabs are kind of like that but for music. Instead of using traditional sheet music, which can look like a bunch of squiggly lines and dots, guitar tabs are a simpler way to write down music specifically for the guitar.

Guitar tabs use numbers and lines to show exactly where your fingers should go on the guitar strings. It’s like a map that guides you through your song, note by note. If you look at a tab, you’ll see six horizontal lines. Each line represents a string on the guitar. The top line is your thinnest string (the high E), and the bottom line is your thickest string (the low E).

Numbers on these lines tell you which fret to press down on. For example, if you see a “3” on the top line, you press down on the third fret of the high E string. Easy, right? And if you’re wondering how to count the frets, just start from the metal strip closest to the guitar’s headstock and go down the neck.

The Basics of Reading Tabs

Now that you know what guitar tabs are, let’s get into the details of reading them. The first thing you’ll notice is that tabs are read from left to right, just like reading a book. Each number you see tells you where to place your fingers on the fretboard.

Here’s a simple example:

e|---0---1---2---3---|
B|-------------------|
G|-------------------|
D|-------------------|
A|-------------------|
E|-------------------|

In this tab, you start by playing the open high E string (that’s what the “0” means). Then, you move to the first fret, then the second, and so on. It’s a step-by-step guide to playing a melody or riff.

If you see multiple numbers stacked vertically, it means you need to play those notes at the same time. This is how chords are represented in tabs. For example:

e|---0---|
B|---1---|
G|---0---|
D|---2---|
A|---3---|
E|-------|

This is a C major chord. You press down on the strings as indicated and strum them all together. Pretty cool, huh?

Common Symbols in Tabs

As you start exploring more tabs, you’ll come across different symbols that add flavor to your playing. These symbols tell you to do something special with the notes. Here’s a quick rundown of some common ones:

• h – Hammer-on: This means you should pick a note and then use your finger to hit the next note on the same string without picking again.
• p – Pull-off: The opposite of a hammer-on. You pick a note and then pull your finger off to let the lower note sound.
• / – Slide up: Start on the note and slide your finger up to the next note.
• \ – Slide down: Start on the note and slide your finger down to the next note.
• b – Bend: Push the string up or down to change the pitch of the note.
• ~ – Vibrato: Wiggle the string back and forth to give the note a wavy sound.

These techniques might take a bit of practice, but they’re what make your playing sound more expressive and interesting. It’s like adding spices to a dish—not essential, but they make everything taste (or sound) better!

Practice Makes Perfect

Reading tabs is one thing, but playing them smoothly is another. It’s normal to feel a bit clumsy at first, but don’t worry—practice is your best friend here. Start slow, and gradually speed up as you get more comfortable. Remember, even the greatest guitarists started from scratch.

Try to play along with songs you love. This not only makes practice more fun but also helps you get a feel for timing and rhythm. If you’re into metal or any heavy genres, Riffhard has some fantastic resources that can help you learn from the best in the business. We offer lessons from renowned metal guitarists who can guide you through various techniques and styles.

Getting Your Guitar in Tune

Before you start playing, it’s crucial to make sure your guitar is in tune. Playing with an out-of-tune guitar is like trying to sing with a sore throat—it just doesn’t sound right. There are plenty of tuning apps available, or you can use a clip-on tuner to get your strings sounding perfect.

Standard tuning is the most common setup, and it’s what most tabs are written for. Here’s how your strings should be tuned from the thickest to the thinnest:

• E (low E string)
• A
• D
• G
• B
• E (high E string)

Once you’re in tune, you’re ready to roll. It’s amazing how much of a difference it makes to play on a guitar that’s perfectly in tune.

Learning to Use a Pick

If you’re new to guitar, you might be wondering whether to use a pick or your fingers. While both methods have their perks, using a pick can help you achieve a cleaner, more defined sound, especially in genres like metal.

Here’s a quick tip for holding a pick: Imagine you’re pinching something really tiny between your thumb and index finger, like a grain of sand. The pick should stick out just enough so you can comfortably strum or pick the strings. It might feel awkward at first, but with practice, it’ll become second nature.

Start by practicing simple downstrokes and upstrokes. This will help you develop a sense of rhythm and control. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating alternate picking (alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes) to play faster passages.

At Riffhard, we’ve got plenty of lessons to help you refine your picking technique and take your playing to the next level. From alternate picking to sweep picking, our instructors cover a wide range of styles and techniques.

Understanding Rhythm and Timing

One of the most important aspects of playing guitar is keeping time. Think of it like dancing—if you’re not in sync with the music, it just doesn’t work. Tabs don’t usually include timing information, so you’ll need to listen to the song and get a feel for the rhythm.

Start by clapping along to the beat before you even pick up your guitar. This will help you internalize the timing and make it easier to play in sync with the music. Once you’ve got the hang of it, try playing along with a metronome. This nifty tool will help you stay on beat and improve your timing.

Playing along with drum tracks is another great way to develop your sense of rhythm. You’ll find plenty of resources online, including backing tracks that can help you nail your timing. And remember, practice makes perfect!

Staying Motivated and Having Fun

Learning to read and play guitar tabs can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The key is to stay motivated and have fun along the way. Set small goals for yourself, like learning a new riff or mastering a chord progression. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they might seem.

Don’t be afraid to explore different styles and genres. Whether you’re into rock, metal, blues, or pop, there’s a whole world of music waiting for you to discover. And if you ever feel stuck or need some extra guidance, Riffhard is here to help with lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists.

Playing with Others

Once you’re comfortable with reading tabs and playing on your own, why not try jamming with others? Playing with friends or joining a band can take your guitar skills to the next level. It’s a great way to learn from others, share ideas, and have a blast making music together.

When playing with others, communication is key. Make sure you’re all on the same page and agree on a song or riff to play. Practice together and listen to each other—it’s all about creating something awesome as a group.

Jamming with others can also boost your confidence and inspire you to keep learning and improving. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make new friends who share your passion for music.

Final Thoughts

Reading guitar tabs is a valuable skill that unlocks new musical possibilities. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, there’s always something new to learn. With practice and dedication, you’ll be playing your favorite songs and creating your own music in no time.

And if you ever need a helping hand, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists to guide you on your musical journey. Happy playing!