Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Gm Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 4/1/2022 - 3 Member Comments
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Notes: "American Refugee" is an instrumental by The Lonesome Ace Stringband featuring Chris Coole. It is based on this version on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08uPOE3D7IU. "American Refugee" is the first tune in the medley.
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 9/17/2021
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Notes: This John Denver song is in the key of D using double-C tuning with the capo at the 2nd fret for aDADE. It's 3/4 time/
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 4/11/2022
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Notes: Here's some basic clawhammer tab for this classic murder ballad.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 9/20/2022 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: "Barbara's Tune" was written by Reed Martin for his wife. This version is based on the playing of Russ Carson (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARZw7MTld7k ).
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/2/2023
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Notes: This tab is for the banjo intro to "Before the Sun" by Gregory Alan Isakov.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0w5KUKSx0I
The video uses the key of A (capo 2 in Gb tuning).
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/2/2023
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Notes: This tab is for the banjo backup to the verse to "Before the Sun" by Gregory Alan Isakov.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0w5KUKSx0I
The video uses the key of A (capo 2 in G tuning).
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/2/2023
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Notes: This tab is for the banjo intro to "Before the Sun" by Gregory Alan Isakov.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0w5KUKSx0I
The video uses the key of A (capo 2 in G tuning).
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Em Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/10/2020
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Notes: "Beyond This Wall" is on Jake Blount's CD, "Spider Tales." Tuning is gEADE. This tune was written by fiddler Judy Hyman who shared it with Jake. Video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Aa0Ri-lojU
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/10/2021 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab is from Steve Martin's "Crow" CD (and not to be confused with the tune written by Jay Unger). Martin plays this 3-finger style, but the request was for clawhammer. Sawmill tuning is used rather than double-C (with capo at 2nd fret) to get the low note at the end of Part A. Part C is like a long bridge that may be played or not. The tab is based on this YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkODMBIgWr0
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: A Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/4/2014
Download: PDF
Notes: This unusual version of "Bonaparte's Retreat" comes from Melvin Wine. Unlike other versions, it is in 6/8 time as a jig. Also has an unusual variant of G tuning (gBGBD) capoed at 2nd fret for the key of A (aC#AC#E). Melvin's father wouldn't let him touch his fiddle, but Melvin would play it while his father was away from the house. This is the first tune Melvin played for his father and that convinced him to let young Melvin continue to play his fiddle. Thanks to Carl Baron for clearing up many things about this arrangement. You can Melvin play this tune at Slippery Hill or Bearea archives.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 3/22/2023
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Notes: This is tab for the banjo backup to the vocal for "Calvary" by Mandolin Orange based on this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-BbgZvkcDA To match the key in the video put your banjo in double-C and capo to the 3rd fret. Tab for banjo introduction is posted separately.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 3/22/2023
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Notes: This is the banjo intro for "Calvary" by Mandolin Orange based on this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-BbgZvkcDA
To match the key in the video put your banjo in double-C and capo to the 3rd fret. Tab for banjo backup for the vocal is posted separately.
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/13/2021 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab uses the fragment of clawhammer tab for "Cindy" in Pete Seeger's "How to Play the Five-String Banjo" book (p. 38) and provides tab for the rest of the verse and chorus.
Genre: Folk Style: Other Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/13/2021 - 2 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab describes the banjo introduction to "Cindy" from a clip from Pete Seeger's "Rainbow Quest" program (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vhTWMOebv8 ). Pete fingerpicks the intro and then plays clawhammer backup behind the singing with Brownie McGhee and Sonny Terry. The folk picking pattern is: 1 2-and 3-and 4. Each measures start with a pinch (thumb and finger). Then thumb generally alternates between the 5th string and the 3rd string on the beat like the thumb bass on guitar. The 2nd and 3rd beats are made up of the thumb followed by a finger pick as eighth notes. The 4th beat is usually a single note played by the thumb.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/7/2010
Download: PDF
Notes: This is tab written by Tom Berghan based on the ABC version of Coleman's March by John Lamancusa on the Fiddler's Companion web site.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/7/2010
Download: PDF
Notes: This is tab of Coleman's March by Tom Berghan based on the ABC notation by Michael Anthony on the Fiddler's Companion web site.
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/31/2022 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This clawhammer tab is loosely based on the folk version by Joan Baez, though the key and the rhythm have been made simpler. Joan may play this in the key of D#.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glMQXjy46J8
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 11/6/2022
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Notes: This tab is based on the tune by the Carolina Chocolate Drops - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbxMDsJPXKw
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 12/27/2020 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab is based on Rhiannon Giddens version where she plays a minstrel banjo in low D tuning (dADF#A). This tuning has the same intervals as open G tuning (gDGBD), so the tab will work for that tuning also. The tab is based on this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moGDevGfmp0
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 3/11/2023
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Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: F Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 3/28/2022
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Notes: This an update to a tab I posted several years ago. "Deer River" is a clawhammer tune written by Chris Coole, the fine Canadian banjo player. Chris plays this in the key of F - fDGCD (or Sawmill tuning with the 5th string dropped to F from G). This tab adds a Part C that Chris plays at the end of the tune. The tab is based on this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJCjkkK23Vk
Genre: Bluegrass Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 4/8/2021
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Notes: "Doug's Tune" was written and played by Doug Dillard and the Dillards. This clawhammer version of "Doug's Tune" is based on the 2010 YouTube video by oldthyme dragon (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMNYU-8aZdU ). It is really more of a ragtime tune than bluegrass. The syncopation in Part A requires either an upward brush stroke or a drop thumb to the 1st string. I chose the latter.
Genre: Country Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/18/2022
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Notes: Here's some basic tab for "Engine Joe" by Slobberbone. They sing the song in the key of B. Capo this tab at the 4th fret to match the video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnPSV6DqBIw
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/18/2023
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Notes: This tab is based on the version found on "Meet Me in the Music" by Erynn Marshall and Chris Coole. It is a good exercise in syncopation.
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 5/28/2023
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Notes: This version of "Fishin' Blues" is based on Taj Mahal's version.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 1/22/2021
Download: PDF
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Gm Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 11/17/2022
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Notes: This tab is based on the playing of Merle Watson in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_2FEraCwIc
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 9/6/2022
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Notes: This tab is based on the playing of Jim Taylor on his CD "Bright Sunny South." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZ7Bt7V36lk
Genre: Popular Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/4/2021
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Notes: This arrangement of the classic song by John Hartford is based on a video by Mike Iverson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OF7ZecJyvic. (Cut and paste the link into a browser.) Mike plays the song in B (capo 4), but this tab is in open G. This tab uses a lot of syncopation via m-skips (or ghost strokes followed by drop thumb). Mike is a talented and generous performer and teacher who offers lessons and workshops in Utah and online: www.banjoutah.com.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Open D (f#DF#Ad) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/10/2020
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Notes: "Goodbye Honey You Call That Gone" is on Jake Blount's CD, "Spider Tales." Played on a fretless banjo, the tuning is dBbDFBb. Open D (f#DF#AD) tuning also works for this tune. Video is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0b9Av19klA
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Dm Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 6/26/2021
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Notes: This tab is based on Chance McCoy's version, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4KJ4lSq8XA . Double-C tuning capoed at the 2nd fret for Dm.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/7/2022
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Notes: This tab is taken from my Kindle ebook, "Stephen Foster: Beginner and Intermediate Clawhammer Banjo Tabs." These tabs are based on piano sheet music from the 1800s and the ebook includes tabs for 12 tunes. Ten tunes have basic and intermediate arrangements.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/7/2022 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab is taken from my Kindle ebook, "Stephen Foster: Beginner and Intermediate Clawhammer Banjo Tabs." These tabs are based on piano sheet music from the 1800s and the ebook includes tabs for 12 tunes. Ten tunes have basic and intermediate arrangements.
Genre: Fiddle/Celtic/Irish Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Gm Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/18/2022
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Notes: Thos tab is based on a recording by Tom Sullivan - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RMBKSJFc6Q . He plays it in the key of G# modal.
Genre: Bluegrass Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 9/6/2023
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Notes: This tab is based on the version by Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0K0BHVn7N7E . They play the tune in the key of B. Capo at the fourth fret to match their key. This tab tries to capture some of the banjo licks in the intro, so the brushes appear in some unusual places (e.g., 3rd beat). Simplify the arrangement to suit your taste.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/29/2021 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: "Jeb's Tune" is a jam tune played in wildly different ways in various YouTube videos. I based this tab mostly on this Clifftop Jam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cb-INxR7X5c&t=144s . There appear to me to be 4 parts, mostly, though the order of appearance changes during this lengthy jam. Everyone is following the fiddlers' lead. I have included chords for guitar, but they are fairly freeform as well. Don't expect precision in this tab. Just have a good time with it.
Genre: Fiddle/Celtic/Irish Style: Unknown/None Chosen Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 6/13/2021
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Notes: This tab is based on a cover of the tune available on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61Srz2xILXQ ). The banjo in the video is in standard G tuning tuned down to open D (dADF#A). This tab and MP3 are in standarg G tuning for ease of learning. The song is in 6/8 time with quarter notes followed by an eighth note or a rhythm of dah-dit dah-dit. The picking style is two-finger.
Genre: Folk Style: Other Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/19/2023
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Notes: This is the picking pattern I might use to approximate what Hedy West is playing on this tune (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmWRgJE1mps). Hedy plays this in the key of F#. (She often played a longneck banjo.) Tune down a half step from gDGBD to match her key.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C#/Dbm Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 6/7/2022 - 3 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab is generally based on the version by David Lindley (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASyAUgVsRZE ). Lindley plays a wildly varying version with a slow preamble, an upbeat intro, and then 3 parts that he varies in terms of repeats, volume, strumming style, etc. This tab provides a basic version of the upbeat intro and Parts A, B and C. Assemble them in a way that pleases you. The key is C# - gCGCD capoed at the 1st fret.
Genre: Fiddle/Celtic/Irish Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/14/2023 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This an arrangement of the jig, "The Lark in the Morning," as played by Noah Cline. Noah has reviewed the tab and given me permission to post the tab. The tab is based on this video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bHzingnhUo
A higher quality version from Noah's CD can be found here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnijZjdxKLE
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 5/4/2022
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Notes: This tab is based on the playing of Joe and Odell Thompson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyO24hRGv1Q
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: E Tuning: Drop C (gCGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 6/20/2021
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Notes: This tab is based on a version by Willie Watson. He plays Drop C tuning (gCGBD) capoed at the 4th fret for the key of E. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxTxPUHeF0Q
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 3/18/2021
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Notes: The tab is based on Jason Romero's playing in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQLVx7pbZgc The tuning is fDGCD (this tuning is unavailable in the drop-down menu on the Tab archive) - Sawmill tuning with the 5th string dropped to F.
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/27/2022
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Notes: A song by Sarah Pirtle popular in a group singing setting. To tab the tune in the key of G, I based the tab on this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rtshm3GDShM. This is a guitar tutorial but it's easy to follow on banjo. The chords above the tab lines are for guitar or for banjo backup if you don't want to play the melody.
Genre: Popular Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/30/2023
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Notes: This is fairly basic tab that may help someone get started on this tune. The tab is for clawhammer, but it is mostly chords which can be played in most any style.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Em Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 12/16/2022
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Notes: MtnGoat selected this as Tune of the Week on December 16, 2022, and found some tab I had posted in a message thread in 2015. I had forgotten about this tab and was happy to see it again. I am adding it to the Tab Library to make it easier to find.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 1/19/2023
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Notes: Wayne Taylor plays this tune in the key of A. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XX9Yr69JXU This tab uses the key of G for simplicity's sake. To play along with the video, tune up to aEAC#E or capo at the 2nd fret.
Genre: Other Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 5/28/2021
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Notes: I tabbed this Gospel tune for a student based on a video of Karen Peck and New River: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYQ1wVkwhsI
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/3/2014
Download: PDF
Notes: Tab for Robert Palomo's original tune as requested by several on the Hangout. Here are 2 videos from Robert: http://youtu.be/k8ksya0uahQ and http://youtu.be/oGxcS1iyAJ4
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: A Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/28/2020 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: To match the key of the original, use a capo at the 2nd fret with open-G tuning (gDGBD).
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 3/20/2021
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Notes: This tab is based on the version by I'm With Her (Sarah Jarosz, Sara Watkins, Aoife O'Donovan). Key is D and tab uses double-C tuning (gCGCD) raised to the 2nd fret. Video available here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2GA23zORUI
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Open D (f#DF#Ad) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/31/2022
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/4/2021
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Notes: This tab is based on Adam Hurt's version of "Poplar Bluff" on his Insight CD. "Poplar Bluff" is a wickedly odd tune from Ed Haley. Everyone seems to have their own version. I guess this is mine, based on what I hear in Adam Hurt's wonderful version.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Open D (f#DF#Ad) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/31/2022
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Genre: Fiddle/Celtic/Irish Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 1/17/2023
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Notes: Popular jig (6/8 meter) at our contra dances.
Genre: Unknown/None Chosen Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Em Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 5/28/2022
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Notes: Cathy Moore's web site, Banjo Meets World, offered tunes from other cultures done clawhammer style. "Säkkijärven Polkka" from Sweden has four parts and offers lots of left-hand work (pull-offs and hammer-ons) as well as drop thumb.
This tune uses the tuning gEGBE, though she tunes to gDFAD and adds the capo to the 2nd fret while leaving the 5th string unchanged. Her web site is no longer updated, but you can view the videos and tips here: https://banjomeetsworld.wordpress.com/ She also provided useful tips for adding drive and syncopation to traditional old-time tunes.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Gm Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/5/2021
Download: PDF | MP3: [Play] [Download]
Notes: Two basic versions of "Shady Grove" - one with basic melody and one that adds a few hammer-ons and pull-offs.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/21/2022
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Notes: This Darley Fulks tune was Tune of the Week on October 21, 2022. This version is based on the playing of John Harrod and Jesse Wells - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSrSFwTgQ48
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 1/7/2023 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This tune was Tune of the Week in the Clawhammer forum on 1/6/2023 (https://www.banjohangout.org/topic/387943). Check out the link for more information about the tune, including a link to Earl Phelps' original recording. I found the notation on Jim's Roots & Blues website helpful also (https://jimsrootsandblues.com/skunk-in-the-collard-patch/).
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/3/2022
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Notes: This tab is in response to a request for tab of Glenn Carson's version in his duet with his son, Russ., on Russ's YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PlLSt_yMe4&t=79s ). This represents what I hear in Glenn's first break. It may not look at all familiar to Glenn since it's more of a skeleton than a full representation of what Glenn is playing.
Genre: Folk Style: Unknown/None Chosen Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/15/2023 - 2 Member Comments
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Notes: "Spider Home" is a tune from the folk punk group O'Death. This tab attempts to approximate the banjo backup on the recording. The slam-jam nature of punk music presents a challenge for the tab writer. I have indicated the fingering for the intro and first part which are played at a moderate tempo. In the sections after that, I just indicate the 3-note chord positions and leave it to the user to determine whether to strum, pick 2- or 3-note arpeggios, or both. The tab is based on this video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cb7Ff3x0ncE . I used Chordify for suggested chords - https://chordify.net/chords/o-death-songs/spider-home-chords . The user is encouraged to find their own path as banjo support for this song.
Genre: Bluegrass Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 6/16/2023 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This clawhammer tab aims to capture the joy of John Hartford's tune.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/7/2023 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab is for Willie Watson's version of "Stewball," as played in this video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IepDAEnvBFY
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 5/9/2021
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Notes: This tab is based on the video by Banjojukebox - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHaC4p1unuc
Genre: Bluegrass Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/20/2023
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Notes: This clawhammer tab is based on the recording by the Osborne Brothers (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNQj9Gq-9MI ). They play it in B, so capo at 4th fret to match the video.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: F Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/26/2023
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Notes: "Susan's Gone" based on Dirk Powell's version on the CD, Appalachian Picking Society. This version in F requires tuning to fCFCD.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/26/2023
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Notes: "Susan's Gone" based on Dirk Powell's version on the CD, Appalachian Picking Society. This version in G doesn't require tuning to another key, such as fCFCD.
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 11/6/2022
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Notes: This tab is based on the song by Loudin Wainwright III - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ne6eS_SmccQ
Genre: Country Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 11/2/2022
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Notes: This tab is based on the version by David A;;en Coe - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ved2go9zEGw
Genre: Fiddle/Celtic/Irish Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/17/2022
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Notes: This tab for "The Doon" is based on Russell Carson's clawhammer break in a video of a medley "The Cameronian and The Doon." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVj6AEWRUNg The key is D, though in the video, the tune is played closer to D#.
Genre: Unknown/None Chosen Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Am Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/19/2022
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Notes: This is strumming background for "The Hearse Song," a morbid tune by Harley Poe. It is based on the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJppqS8uDyQ . The tab is in Am, but capo to the second fret to play with the video. The tab includes one verse and the chorus. Adjust to fit your own purposes.
Words and chords can be found here: https://tabs.ultimate-guitar.com/tab/harley-poe/the-hearse-song-chords-1849110
Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Em Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 12/25/2020
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Notes: This tab is based on the tune by Genticorum:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genticorum/videos/3758861434181084/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOzNMbe3ni0
Key of Em, though with double D tuning.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/25/2021 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab is based on Sharon Martinson's video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=338vvwkCbc0&list=RD338vvwkCbc0&index=2.
The key is C, but she uses sawmill tuning (gDGCD) for the tune, as she mentions in the introduction. Sharon uses quite a few downstrokes where the finger strikes first one string then the next. I have used mostly open-string pull-offs (ASPO) for these situations. She also uses syncopation often with a "ghost" downstroke followed by the thumb striking a string on the second half of the beat. I tried to capture some, but not all, of these. This tab represents what I hear in the tune and how I might choose to play it.
The chords in the tab are for any guitar accompaniment. The banjo plays partial chords or no chords, in some situations.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 12/2/2014
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Notes: Melodic clawhammer version of this old song. Tabbed for OzarkBanjoMan who remembered the tune his grandfather played. He also has a great old photo of his grandfather playing into a recording device with a megaphone-type speaker. This tab is loosely based on a YouTube video by the Empty Bottle String Band. I have also uploaded tab for banjo backup with lyrics.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 12/2/2014
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Notes: Tab for clawhammer backup with lyrics for this old song. Tabbed for OzarkBanjoMan who remembered the tune his grandfather played. He also has a great old photo of his grandfather playing into a recording device with a megaphone-type speaker. This tab is loosely based on a YouTube video by the Empty Bottle String Band. I have also uploaded tab for a melodic clawhammer version.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: B Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 12/31/2021
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Notes: Clawhammer tab for "Walk On Boy," as played by Doc Watson with his grandson Richard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1xnrHMDCFY. This tab provides melody and melodic backup in sawmill tuning but few chords. Doc plays in it Bm. Capo to suit your voice.
Genre: Traditional Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: Gm Tuning: Sawmill (gDGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 7/21/2021
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Notes: Beginner clawhammer tab for "Wayfaring Stranger."
Genre: Folk Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/3/2021
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Notes: This tab is based on the folk song as sung by Tom Paxton.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 2/4/2022 - 1 Member Comments
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Notes: This tab is based on the video featuring Ricky Skaggs, Barry Gibb and others: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YMKj9PqAnM
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: D Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/1/2021
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Notes: The tab is for the banjo intro and breaks to John McCutcheon's "Who'll Rock the Cradle." The chords shown are for guitar accompaniment and are not played by the banjo, in most cases. The tab is based on this version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55GEBpqpAqk
Genre: Country Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: G Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 10/1/2021
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Notes: This tab is based on this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NX9UuRyt0E . (You need to copy the link to a browser since it is not an active link.) Dolly sings it in the key of Bb in the video, but the tab is in G.
Genre: Popular Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: B Tuning: Standard Open G (gDGBD) Difficulty: Intermediate
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 5/27/2021
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Notes: This clawhammer tab is based on the cover of the Tom Petty song, "Wildflowers," by the Wailin' Jennys. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XhVILjWkNg )The level is beginner/intermediate. They play the tune in the key of B, using open-G tuning (gDGBD) capoed to the 4th fret. I indicate the chord shapes for G tuning. The actual chords for G, C and D7 capoed would be B, E and F#7. This tab is based on the banjo introduction and can be used to back up the vocal, though strumming chords works as well. The mid-song instrumental breaks follow a different pattern.
Genre: Old Time Style: Clawhammer and Old-Time Key: C Tuning: Double C (gCGCD) Difficulty: Beginner
Posted by dbrooks, updated: 8/2/2020
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