Follow The Signs by Born of Osiris Chords & Tabs - Strahe Sharpyan

Guitar Tabs Analysis

1. Unique Features of the Tabs

This tabs showcases several distinctive elements that highlight the guitarist's technical skill and musical expressiveness.

• Section Analysis: In measures 5 and 9, the use of slide techniques (B3SC4) stands out as it creates a smooth transition between notes, giving a lyrical quality to the passage. For instance, transitioning from the 7th fret on the 4th string to the 5th fret employs a slide that adds an expressive flair typical of emotive guitar playing.

• Dynamic Rhythmic Variation: The incorporation of staccato notes (e.g., x) alongside full notes (C) creates a compelling rhythmic contrast in measures 12 and 16. The differentiation in articulation here contributes to the overall dynamic feel, enhancing the musical narrative.

• Harmonics in Context: The use of natural harmonics (B3G3Harm) introduces a shimmering quality in measures 14 and 18. By incorporating harmonics, the musician can add texture, enriching the sound while showcasing advanced techniques appropriate for skilled players.

2. Performance Challenges Analysis

Several areas in the sheet present challenges that require focused practice:

• Complex Fingering: Measures 6-8 introduce multiple simultaneous plucking techniques, particularly with mixed use of pluck (B3PC4) and strumming (D). This combination demands precise finger placement and changes, which can be tricky for intermediate players.

• Consistent Timing in Bistro Playing: Keeping rhythm while alternating between palm muting (PM) and full notes can be challenging, especially in measures 10-11. The difficulty lies in maintaining the pulse while executing these techniques, requiring both physical coordination and a solid internal metronome.

Strategies for Improvement

• Isolate Difficult Sections: Spend extra time on measures 6-8 and 10-11 by working slowly at first, gradually increasing speed while ensuring clarity in each note.

• Use a Metronome: Practicing with a metronome can help internalize the rhythm, particularly during palm muting and strumming sections to ensure evenness in timing.

3. Practice Recommendations

To effectively tackle the identified challenges, consider the following targeted exercises:

• Focused Section Repeats: For measures 6-8, isolate these parts and practice plucking with B3PC4 followed by D. Start with one hand to perfect the movement before integrating both hands together, allowing muscle memory to develop.

• Gradual Tempo Increase: In conjunction with timing adjustments, start at a slower pace for measures 10-11 (using PM) to ensure mis-timed strums are corrected. Gradually increase the tempo while maintaining precision.

• Incorporate Warm-up Exercises: Prior to practice sessions, include finger dexterity exercises that mimic the techniques used in the tabs, such as slides and plucks (B3SC4, B3PC4), to warm up the fingers for the specific demands of the piece.

By focusing on these areas and employing structured practice methods, guitarists can enhance their mastery over the techniques presented in the tabs, ultimately leading to more expressive performances.