Master the Melody- A Step-by-Step Guide to Playing ‘Falling Slowly’ on the Tablature

How to Play Falling Slowly Tab: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you a fan of the beautiful and emotional song “Falling Slowly” by The Civil Wars? Do you want to learn how to play this iconic tune on the guitar? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to play “Falling Slowly” using the tablature (tab) format. Whether you are a beginner or an intermediate guitarist, this guide will help you master this classic song in no time.

Understanding the Tablature Format

Before diving into the actual steps, it’s essential to understand the tablature format. Tablature, often referred to as “tabs,” is a musical notation system that shows which frets to press on which strings of the guitar. Each line in the tab represents a string, and the numbers indicate the frets to press. For example, a “3” on the second line from the bottom means you should press the third fret on the second string.

Step 1: Get to Know the Chords

“Falling Slowly” is primarily based on a few simple chords. To get started, familiarize yourself with the following chords:

– G major (G)
– C major (C)
– D major (D)
– Em (Em)

You can practice these chords by strumming them in a rhythm and gradually increasing the speed until you can play them smoothly.

Step 2: Learn the Chord Progression

The chord progression for “Falling Slowly” is G-C-D-Em. To play the song, you will need to transition between these chords in the correct order. Start by playing the G chord, then switch to the C chord, followed by the D chord, and finally the Em chord. Repeat this progression throughout the song.

Step 3: Practice the Rhythm

“Falling Slowly” has a unique rhythm that requires some practice. The song is played in a 4/4 time signature, and the rhythm is quite simple. Here’s a breakdown of the rhythm:

– G chord: Downstroke (1)
– C chord: Upstroke (2)
– D chord: Downstroke (3)
– Em chord: Upstroke (4)

To play the rhythm, strum the downstrokes on the G and D chords, and the upstrokes on the C and Em chords. Practice this rhythm until you can play it consistently.

Step 4: Add the Melody

Once you have mastered the rhythm and chord progression, it’s time to add the melody. The melody is played by fretting the notes on the higher strings while strumming the guitar. Here’s a simplified version of the melody:

– G major: 3rd fret on the 2nd string
– C major: 3rd fret on the 3rd string
– D major: 3rd fret on the 4th string
– Em: 3rd fret on the 5th string

Play these notes while strumming the chords in the rhythm you’ve learned. You can also experiment with different fingerings and dynamics to add more expression to your playing.

Step 5: Practice and Refine

Now that you have the basic structure of “Falling Slowly” down, it’s time to practice and refine your playing. Spend time working on each part of the song, focusing on accuracy, rhythm, and expression. Don’t be afraid to slow down and take your time to get it right. With persistence and practice, you’ll be able to play “Falling Slowly” with confidence and emotion.

In conclusion, learning how to play “Falling Slowly” using the tablature format is a rewarding experience for guitarists of all levels. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to master this beautiful song and share your passion for music with others. Happy playing!