Made This Way by The Word Alive Chords & Tabs - Vannis Borgo

Detailed Analysis of Guitar Tabs

Overview of the Piece: The provided tabs consists of a captivating composition divided into several sections, including Intro, Verse, Chorus, and Bridge, showcasing dynamic rhythms, intricate finger techniques, and an overall melodic charm. This analysis will highlight the unique characteristics of the tabs, identify potential challenges for players, and suggest specific practice techniques to effectively master the piece.

1. Unique Features of the Tabs

Intro (Measures 1-8)

• Distinctive Opening: The intro initiates with a spacious yet atmospheric feel, using open strings like the 4th string at the 10th fret (F#4) and the 5th string at the 13th fret, creating a suspenseful sound that sets the stage for the following sections.

Verse 1 (Measures 9-17)

• Melodic Complexity: The melody in this section is characterized by sliding notes (e.g., (B3SC4) in measure 13). Notably, the transition from the 5th string at the 10th fret to the 8th fret, combined with the use of hammer-ons and pull-offs, enhances the fluidity and expressiveness of the melodic line.

Chorus (Measures 27-43)

• Powerful Climaxes: This section utilizes dramatic chord progressions with strong downstrokes (D) that emphasize the rhythmic drive of the piece, particularly in measure 27 where the G# and F# notes recur, reinforcing the thematic material. The combination of sustained notes and dynamic strumming patterns creates an energetic and uplifting atmosphere.

Bridge (Measures 43-47)

• Contrast and Texture: The bridge introduces a softer dynamic with the use of palm-muted notes (PM), as indicated in measures 43 and 46, creating an introspective moment that contrasts with the previous intensity. The interplay between open notes and muted strums provides textural interest.

Outro (Measures 119-126)

• Reflective Closure: The outro concludes with a gentle combination of notes from the 6th string at the 17th fret down to the open 1st string. This serves to bring the piece full circle, echoing thematic material while offering a calm resolution to the emotional journey.

2. Performance Challenges

Technical Difficulties:

• Sliding Techniques: Measures such as 11 and 13 require proficient use of slides, as indicated by (B3SC4), which can be challenging for less experienced players. The transition from higher to lower frets, combined with maintaining pitch accuracy, demands careful finger placement and control.

• Complex Rhythmic Patterns: The varied rhythmic structures, especially in the Chorus with rapid transitions, can potentially overwhelm players. Maintaining a steady tempo while delivering the dynamic nuances is essential and can be strategically tackled using a metronome during practice.

Suggested Solutions:

1. Slow Practice: Focus on challenging measures by practicing slowly, gradually increasing the tempo as comfort and confidence develop.
2. Segmented Practice: Break down complex passages into smaller sections, such as measures 9-12, allowing for focused practice on specific techniques like hammer-ons.
3. Use of a Metronome: Utilize a metronome when practicing varied rhythms to ensure consistent tempo and accuracy.

3. Practice Recommendations

To effectively tackle the identified challenges, here are specific practice strategies:

Sliding Practice:

• In measures like 11 and 13, take time to isolate sliding movements. First practice the slides without rhythm and then incorporate them into the overall phrase after mastering the finger placements.

Rhythmic Consistency:

• Focus on challenging rhythmic sections such as the Chorus. Practice with a metronome set at a slower speed to master the timing and then gradually increase the tempo to the performance speed.

Timed Drills:

• Create structured timed drills for measures that contain multiple techniques, including slides and pull-offs. Spend dedicated time on these measures before reintegrating them into broader playing sequences.

By incorporating these strategies, players can enhance their technical skills and capture the essence of the piece while gaining a deeper understanding of the musical components involved. This combination of thoughtful practice and analysis will enable guitarists to perform with confidence and expressiveness, ensuring an engaging listening experience.

Conclusion

This tabs encapsulates a rich array of musical ideas designed for guitarists looking to enhance their skills through engaging melodies, meaningful dynamics, and intricate techniques. Through careful practice and attention to detail, musicians can fully realize the expressive potential of this composition, resulting in a captivating performance.