After The Rain by Nelson Chords & Tabs - Sheltout Neillyn

Tabs Analysis

1. Unique Features of the Tabs

The tabs in question exhibits several distinctive characteristics that make it particularly engaging for guitar players.

Specific Highlighted Sections

• Measures 4-6: These measures feature a combination of hammer-ons (B3HC4) and pull-offs (B3PC4), which create a fluid legato effect. Specifically, the use of hammer-ons on the 5th fret of the A string followed by a pull-off to the 3rd fret exemplifies a smooth transitioning between notes that conveys a lyrical quality. The fingering can be noted as using the index finger for the 3rd fret and the ring finger for the 5th fret.

• Measures 10-12: The incorporation of sliding techniques (B3SC4) is prevalent here, where players slide from the 2nd fret to the 4th fret on the D string. This fleeting slide not only creates a seamless connection between notes but adds a unique textural layer to the piece. Players should practice the transition from the D string to the A string to maintain clarity of tone.

• Measures 15-17: Here, the use of harmonics (B3G3Harm) at the 5th fret of the B string introduces an ethereal quality. The harmonics create a contrast with the more percussive notes surrounding them, showcasing the versatility of the guitar. To achieve crisp harmonics, players are advised to lightly touch the string with their fingertip while plucking it.

2. Technical Challenges and Analysis

This piece presents several technical challenges that guitarists must navigate.

Featured Difficulties

• Measures 7-9: The rapid staccato notes (x) interspersed with downstrokes (D) create an intricate rhythmic challenge. The necessity to maintain even timing while executing muted strikes can be daunting for players.

• Measure 13-14: These measures demand proficiency with string skipping and alternate picking, requiring players to seamlessly move from the high E string to the low E string. This could lead to potential muddiness in execution if not practiced thoroughly.

Solutions

To address these challenges:

• For measures 7-9, it would be beneficial to practice each set of staccato notes individually before combining them with downstrokes. Employing a metronome can help maintain consistent timing.
• For measures 13-14, slow practice using only alternate picking will allow players to build muscle memory for string skipping; gradually increase speed as comfort grows.

3. Practice Suggestions

To maximize the efficacy of the tabs and improve on identified challenging sections, specific practice strategies can be employed.

Focused Practices

• For Measures 4-6: Players should isolate the hammer-ons and pull-offs, practicing them slowly, focusing on clean transitions without any stuttering. Gradually increase speed while ensuring that each note rings out clearly.

• For Measures 10-12: Create a daily exercise incorporating sliding techniques. Establish a routine that includes practicing the slide to a metronome, focusing on maintaining a consistent speed and ensuring clarity on both ends of the slide.

• For Measures 15-17: Regularly practice harmonic techniques by focusing on achieving clear notes before integrating them into the full piece. Start by ringing out the harmonic alone, then introduce it with surrounding notes in a slow manner.

By systematically addressing these practice areas, guitarists can improve not only their dexterity but also their expressiveness on the instrument. This tabs serves as an excellent tool for developing complex finger patterns, rhythmic accuracy, and overall musicality, encouraging players to delve deeper into their technical abilities and musical expressions.