Tablature

usgb/ˈtæblətʃər/
noun

A form of musical notation that shows finger placements instead of musical pitches.

He had difficulty reading traditional music sheets, so he used a tablature to learn how to play the guitar.
Visual representation of "tablature" - A form of musical notation that shows finger placements instead of musical pitches.

Often appears as...

  • guitar tablature
  • read a tablature

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "tablature"
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Music-Specific

Tablature is specific to learning and writing music, typically strings like the guitar or bass.

Illustration for Music-Specific
He printed the guitar tablature for his favorite song.
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Visual Guidance

The lines represent strings and numbers indicate frets, guiding where to place fingers.

Illustration for Visual Guidance
The tablature showed '3' on the top line for the third fret on the high E string.
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Non-Standard Notation

Tablature is not a replacement for standard musical notation but an alternative for specific instruments.

Illustration for Non-Standard Notation
Although I can't read music, tablature helps me play melodies on my ukulele.
Visual representation of the word "Tablature"

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