Dance On - Cliff Richard & The Shadows

Introduction

"Dance On" by Cliff Richard & The Shadows is a classic instrumental track that showcases the impeccable playing style of The Shadows, particularly Hank Marvin's signature tone and phrasing. This lesson from LickLibrary.com takes you through the song note for note, allowing you to master the intricate techniques that define this iconic track. Whether you're looking to refine your precision, develop fluidity, or enhance your overall guitar control, this lesson will equip you with essential skills to elevate your playing. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Shadows and Their Influence

The Shadows, led by the legendary Hank Marvin, were pioneers of instrumental rock music. Their distinct sound, characterised by clean echo-laden lead lines and tight rhythmic backing, influenced countless guitarists, from Brian May to Mark Knopfler. Marvin's use of melodic phrasing and dynamic control set the standard for instrumental guitar work and remains a fundamental study for players seeking to develop expressive and articulate lead playing.

Guitar Techniques Featured in the Lesson

Vibrato

Vibrato is one of the most expressive techniques used by Hank Marvin in "Dance On." By slightly varying the pitch of a note, vibrato adds richness and emotion to your playing. Learning vibrato improves finger strength, control, and sustain, helping your lead lines sound more dynamic and professional.

Alternate Picking

The fast and precise passages in "Dance On" require clean execution, which is achieved through alternate picking. This technique involves alternating downstrokes and upstrokes with the pick, enhancing speed, accuracy, and overall picking efficiency.

Legato

Legato playing in this song consists of hammer-ons and pull-offs, which create smooth, flowing lines without excessive picking. Mastering legato improves your fretboard fluency and reduces picking fatigue, allowing for effortless transitions between notes.

Slides

Slides connect notes seamlessly, adding a fluid and lyrical quality to the melody. They help develop finger control and articulation, essential for creating a vocal-like quality in lead guitar playing.

String Bending

Hank Marvin’s tasteful bends add expression and emotion to "Dance On." String bending allows you to raise the pitch of a note smoothly, an essential technique for blues and rock-inspired playing.

Double Stops

Playing two notes simultaneously, known as double stops, is a key part of the harmonised lead lines in "Dance On." This technique strengthens your finger independence and adds a fuller, richer sound to your lead work.

Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

Rather than strumming entire chords, Marvin often breaks them into individual notes, creating a more intricate and textured sound. Arpeggiated chord progressions enhance finger dexterity and improve rhythmic accuracy, making them an excellent tool for refining your picking hand.

Palm Muting

Used subtly in rhythm sections, palm muting helps control sustain and dynamics, giving parts a percussive quality. This technique is essential for adding contrast between open ringing notes and muted passages.

Summary of Techniques Used

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Slides
• String Bending
• Double Stops
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Palm Muting

By learning "Dance On" with LickLibrary.com, you’ll gain invaluable technical skills while immersing yourself in the timeless style of The Shadows. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting, mastering these techniques will elevate your playing to a new level, helping you capture the essence of this iconic instrumental track.