Now that you have thought about the pros and cons of learning music, you are ready to teach yourself how to play on your guitar. What you need next is a comparison between reading guitar notes (sheet music) versus using tabs, particularly in the context of online guitar lessons?
Here’s a breakdown:
1. Sheet Music (Notes):
What It Is: Standard music notation that uses notes, rhythms, and other symbols.
Pros:
Universally understood across instruments and genres.
Provides detailed rhythmic information.
Encourages musical literacy, which can be transferred to other instruments.
Gives a deeper understanding of music theory.
Cons:
Takes longer to learn and master.
Can be intimidating for beginners.
Less direct in showing where to play on the guitar neck.
Online Lessons:
Less common in free lessons since many guitarists don’t rely heavily on reading traditional sheet music.
Often accompanied by exercises in music theory or classical guitar lessons.
2. Guitar Tabs (Tablature):
What It Is: A simplified system showing which strings and frets to play.
Pros:
Easy to learn and understand, even for complete beginners.
Perfect for learning songs quickly.
Focuses directly on finger placement, making it guitar-specific.
Cons:
Lacks rhythm and timing information (unless combined with standard notation or a recording).
Not transferable to other instruments.
Less emphasis on music theory.
Online Lessons:
Dominates free guitar lesson platforms.
Tabs are widely used in tutorials, especially for popular songs.
Which Is Better for Online Guitar Lessons?
For Beginners: Tabs are easier and more accessible, especially with video guidance.
For Intermediate/Advanced Players: Learning to read sheet music enhances versatility and understanding of complex pieces.
For Casual Players: Tabs, combined with ear training or video lessons, are often sufficient.
Still can’t decide? Combining both methods can be a balanced way to develop your skills.
You can also get started with a free account that has those free online lessons on Bandora Music now!
About Eric Volfango
My name is Eric and I have a career in corporate finance but I’m also a part-time musician. I’ve been playing guitar for over 20 years and about 15 years professionally. I play in a live-karaoke band regularly and I volunteer as a choir director at a local church. No matter how busy life gets, I have always made time to include music in my life. Music has always been an important part of me and I want to share it with whoever is willing to listen.nd I want to share it with whoever is willing to listen.
