PRESENCE - Volume 37
Inspiration For Guitarists
One of the most common questions I get is about tabs.
Let me start by saying — I’m not one of those “you must read standard notation” guys. I’ve learned a ton from tabs over the years.
The truth is, guitar is a nightmare to read standard notation on. Most notes can be found in three or four places on the neck. Even a simple Bb could live anywhere. Tabs solve that problem — they tell you exactly where to play.
And they’ve been around a long time — even back in the Baroque era, lute players were using tablature to notate music. So it’s legit.
That said, I do have two big issues with how most players use tabs.
1️⃣ Learning full solos note-for-note.
This is like trying to learn English by memorizing the Declaration of Independence.
Sure, you’ll pick up a few useful phrases, but it’s a long, painful road for very little payoff.
A better way?
Learn short phrases — the building blocks of solos.
It’s like learning “Hola,” “Cómo estás,” “Dónde está la puerta?”
You learn vocabulary, not entire speeches.
2️⃣ Getting lost in the details.
Many tabs today include everything — micro-bends, grace notes, even accidental string noises. It can get overwhelming fast.
When you’re learning from tabs, focus on the gist of the phrase first. Nail the rhythm, feel, and flow — then refine the details.
With that in mind, I’m working on a new section of my Essential Skills Course.
It’s tentatively called “Play Along With Me.”
In it, I’ll play short, useful phrases over backing tracks — and you can join in, almost like we’re trading solos in a live jam session.
I’ll also include tabs for these short phrases so you can learn the vocabulary that actually matters — without wasting hours memorizing a full solo.
This week’s video is an in-depth look at using the Number System to see how to play chords and solo in different keys:
Here are a couple more recent videos that you might find helpful:
Thanks for reading and for all your support!
Keep practicing smart,
Dustin