How to Play “Tears in Heaven” on Guitar for Beginners
Playing “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton on the guitar can be a challenging yet rewarding experience for beginners. This iconic song features a soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, making it a favorite among guitarists of all skill levels. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of playing “Tears in Heaven” on guitar, ensuring that even beginners can tackle this beautiful tune.
Understanding the Song Structure
Before diving into the guitar tabs, it’s essential to understand the song’s structure. “Tears in Heaven” is primarily a ballad, with a verse-chorus structure. The song consists of three main parts: the intro, the verse, and the chorus. The intro is a short guitar riff that sets the tone for the song, while the verse and chorus are the main sections where the melody and lyrics are featured.
Learning the Intro
The intro of “Tears in Heaven” is a simple yet catchy riff that can be played using the E minor pentatonic scale. To play the intro, follow these steps:
1. Tune your guitar to the key of E minor.
2. Use the E minor pentatonic scale, which includes the notes E, G, A, B, and D.
3. Play the following sequence of notes: E, G, A, B, D, E, G, A, B, D, E.
This sequence can be repeated as many times as needed to create the intro’s distinctive sound.
Playing the Verse
The verse of “Tears in Heaven” is played using a combination of fingerpicking and strumming. Here’s how to play the verse:
1. Start by playing the first chord, E minor, by placing your first finger on the second fret of the low E string and your third finger on the fourth fret of the A string.
2. Move to the next chord, G major, by lifting your first finger and placing your second finger on the second fret of the A string.
3. Continue this pattern, playing the following chords in sequence: E minor, G major, A minor, B7, E minor, G major, A minor, B7.
As you become more comfortable with the chord progression, you can add fingerpicking to create a more dynamic sound.
Playing the Chorus
The chorus of “Tears in Heaven” is characterized by a repeating melody that can be played using both fingerpicking and strumming. Here’s how to play the chorus:
1. Start by playing the first chord, E minor, using the same fingerpicking pattern as in the verse.
2. Move to the next chord, G major, and play the melody by picking the notes E, G, A, and B in quick succession.
3. Repeat this pattern for the next chord, A minor, and then B7.
The chorus can be played by repeating these patterns throughout the song.
Practicing and Improving
Playing “Tears in Heaven” on guitar requires practice and patience. Start by focusing on getting the chords and melody down correctly, then gradually work on improving your timing and strumming patterns. As you become more comfortable with the song, experiment with different techniques, such as bending notes or adding slides, to add your personal touch to the tune.
Remember that learning to play “Tears in Heaven” on guitar for beginners is a process, and it’s essential to take your time and enjoy the journey. With dedication and practice, you’ll be able to master this beautiful song and share its soulful sound with others.
