Brothers In Arms by Dire Straits

The Dire Straits classic, Brothers In Arms, is an iconic guitar piece that highlights Mark Knopfler’s unique playing style and emotive expression. At LickLibrary.com, we’ve crafted a note-for-note guitar lesson for this masterpiece, focusing on the intricate techniques used in the song. Not only will you master this timeless track, but you’ll also develop essential skills to elevate your guitar playing. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitar Work of Mark Knopfler

Mark Knopfler’s guitar work in Brothers In Arms is a prime example of his soulful and melodic approach. Renowned for his fingerpicking style, Knopfler blends technical finesse with emotional depth, making his solos and riffs resonate with listeners. His influence stretches across genres, inspiring countless players with his ability to tell stories through music. Learning this song is a window into the artistry of one of the most respected guitarists of all time.

Techniques Focused on in the Lesson

1. Fingerpicking

Knopfler’s signature finger-picking technique is central to Brothers In Arms. This approach replaces a pick with the player’s fingers, offering greater control over dynamics and tone. By mastering fingerpicking, you can create a warm, intimate sound perfect for storytelling solos.

2. Vibrato

The song's soulful lead lines showcase the importance of vibrato. Vibrato adds emotion and depth to sustained notes, making them “sing” with a vocal-like quality. Developing this technique enhances your phrasing and expressive capabilities on the guitar.

3. Slides

Knopfler’s smooth slides between notes add a lyrical quality to the melodies. Slides create seamless transitions that enrich solos and make them more fluid. This technique is invaluable for achieving a professional sound.

4. Sustain

Knopfler’s playing in Brothers In Arms features remarkable sustain, allowing notes to linger and convey deep emotion. Understanding sustain involves combining technique with gear settings to optimise the resonance of your guitar.

5. Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Melodic embellishments in the song rely on hammer-ons and pull-offs, which create smooth, flowing lines without the need for constant picking. These techniques improve finger strength and coordination, vital for intricate solos.

6. String Bending

Expressive string bending is used to hit notes with an emotional push, mimicking the human voice. Mastering bends improves pitch control and dynamic sensitivity, essential for soloing.

7. Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

The song’s chord work often employs arpeggiated chord progressions, where the notes of a chord are played individually rather than strummed together. This technique enhances finger independence and adds a delicate texture to your rhythm playing.

8. Hybrid Picking

Knopfler’s occasional use of hybrid picking—using a pick and fingers simultaneously—offers versatility and precision. This technique is useful for mixing melodic lines with chord work, giving your playing a dynamic edge.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

1. Enhanced Musical Expression: Techniques like vibrato and string bending allow you to imbue your playing with emotion.
2. Improved Technical Skills: Slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs refine your dexterity and smooth out transitions between notes.
3. Versatility: Fingerpicking and hybrid picking expand your repertoire and prepare you for various musical styles.
4. Deeper Musicality: Understanding sustain and arpeggios enhances your ability to create resonant, lyrical guitar parts.

Guitar Techniques Used in These Lessons

Here is a list of all the techniques explored in the Brothers In Arms guitar lessons. Click on the links to learn more about each:

• Fingerpicking
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Sustain
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• String Bending
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Hybrid Picking

Mastering Brothers In Arms not only allows you to play one of Dire Straits’ most beloved songs but also equips you with a wealth of techniques that can transform your overall guitar playing. Dive into our detailed lessons and let the magic of Mark Knopfler’s artistry inspire your journey.