Tracking Time by Citizen Chords & Tabs - Changlas Gladreed

Detailed Analysis of the Guitar Tabs

Unique Characteristics

The guitar tabs for this piece is recognized for its intricate rhythmic structures and dynamic shifts. Notably, from measures 10 to 26 during the Verse 1, the section demonstrates a unique interplay between quarter notes and dotted rhythms, creating a compelling groove.

• Measure 10 introduces a consistent motif with the use of the fifth fret on the fourth string (A string), producing a rich harmonic foundation. The use of three repeated notes (4th string, 5th fret) immediately sets a melodic anchor for the section.
• In Measure 14, the transition involves a shift to measure the seventh fret while adding an upward strum (D), enhancing the melodic contour and allowing for exciting variation.
• The harmony intensifies through the inclusion of open strings and slides, particularly evident in measures 18 and 19. This blend of fretted notes (10th fret and 9th fret) with open strings allows for rich tonal colors that distinguish this section from the repeat in Verse 2.

Performance Challenges

The arrangement presents several challenges that require careful attention to technique and timing:

1. Timing Variance: In measures 10 and 14, the juxtaposition of quarter notes and dotted notes requires precision. These measures can be particularly challenging, with transitions needing careful counting to maintain the rhythmic integrity.
2. String Skipping: In measures 38 and 39, the player must navigate between the 10th and 6th frets on the fifth string, which demands accuracy to avoid unwanted noise and ensure smooth transitions.
3. Articulation: The use of hammer-ons and pull-offs (indicated by notations like (B3G3Full)) often appears in measures 43 and 46. These require smooth finger movements to articulate the notes clearly without breaking the flow.

Suggested Solutions:

• Tempo Practice: Slowly practicing measures 10 and 14 with a metronome can help solidify timing before attempting them at full tempo.
• Isolation of Sections: Focus on difficult string-skipping sections by breaking them down into smaller pieces, playing each string combination separately before integrating them back into the complete phrase.
• Finger Strengthening Exercises: Incorporating hammer-on and pull-off exercises into daily practice can improve speed and articulation for measures that involve these techniques.

Practice Recommendations

To address the identified performance challenges, the following targeted practice strategies are suggested:

1. Rhythmic Accuracy:

   • Begin by counting aloud while practicing measures 10 and 14. Gradually decrease your metronome speed, focusing on maintaining rhythmic integrity before increasing speed.

2. String Skipping Mastery:

   • Practice measures 38-39 using a slow, deliberate pace. Consider using alternate picking to ensure each note remains clear and defined. Implement a visual guide by marking which fingers to use for each note on these stretches.

3. Articulation Techniques:

   • For measures involving hammer-ons and pull-offs, isolate these passages and utilize finger exercises that emphasize these techniques. Gradually increase their speed as your dexterity improves.

The tabs not only serves as a means to perform the piece but as a valuable resource for mastering essential guitar techniques, including rhythmic variation, dynamic control, and articulation. By employing these recommendations, players will enhance their skills and gain a deeper understanding of the textures this arrangement offers.

Overall, this guitar tabs provides a rich platform for both performance and technique development, making it an essential addition to any guitarist’s repertoire.