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Do You Prefer Learning Songs By Ear Or Tabs?
Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2026 11:56 am
by UKPete24
Both methods have advantages. Which do you prefer and why?
Do You Prefer Learning Songs By Ear Or Tabs?
Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2026 1:17 pm
by GearNerd
Tabs are faster for learning difficult parts.
Do You Prefer Learning Songs By Ear Or Tabs?
Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2026 1:23 pm
by BluesGuy
Learning by ear improves musical understanding.
Do You Prefer Learning Songs By Ear Or Tabs?
Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2026 1:27 pm
by MetalPlayer
I usually use tabs as a starting point then adjust by ear.
Re: Do You Prefer Learning Songs By Ear Or Tabs?
Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2026 2:10 pm
by Olly
I always used tabs for learning and now, looking back, I don't think this was as helpful as doing it by ear.
Whilst tabs can definitely be the quickest and easiest way, you do not have the benefit of developing your ear. If you transcribe by ear for long enough then it will become second nature and your musical understanding and competency will have grown exponentially.
Also bear in mind that tabs are posted by anyone without much moderation and often they can be wrong.
Definitely try learning by ear to start with and maybe use tabs for those sections that you are struggling with.