Guitar Tango by Hank Marvin

Introduction to "Guitar Tango"

Discover the intricate artistry of Hank Marvin with our note-for-note guitar lesson for "Guitar Tango." This classic instrumental, performed by Hank Marvin and The Shadows, showcases a unique blend of rhythmic precision, melodic phrasing, and technical flair. In this lesson, you'll delve into the techniques that make the song a masterpiece, enriching your playing style and broadening your skill set.

Whether you're a fan of Hank Marvin’s signature style or simply looking to master a timeless classic, our "Guitar Tango" lesson equips you with the tools to replicate this iconic track with accuracy and finesse. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Hank Marvin and The Shadows

Hank Marvin, renowned for his clean tone, lyrical melodies, and pioneering use of the tremolo arm, is one of the most influential guitarists in modern music. As the lead guitarist for The Shadows, Marvin helped shape the sound of instrumental rock during the 1960s. His innovative techniques inspired generations of guitarists, including legends like Eric Clapton, Brian May, and Mark Knopfler.

"Guitar Tango" exemplifies Marvin's ability to blend Spanish-inspired phrasing with the electric guitar, creating a rich, expressive sound that transcends genres. Learning this piece offers not only technical growth but also a glimpse into the artistry of one of the most iconic guitar players of all time.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Our "Guitar Tango" lesson focuses on a variety of guitar techniques that are essential for capturing the song's essence. Each section of the lesson is dedicated to breaking down these techniques, explaining their application in the song, and highlighting their benefits for your playing.

Vibrato

Hank Marvin's use of vibrato adds a singing quality to his notes. This technique involves subtly varying the pitch of a note to create warmth and emotion. By mastering vibrato, you can add depth to your melodies, making your playing more expressive.

Slides

Smooth slides between notes are a hallmark of Marvin's style in "Guitar Tango." These transitions create a fluid, vocal-like quality that enhances the song's lyrical phrasing. Practicing slides will improve your fretboard navigation and help you connect notes seamlessly.

String Bending

String bending is used extensively in "Guitar Tango" to replicate the vocal nuances of flamenco-style phrasing. This technique is vital for adding dynamic expression to your solos, making your playing more engaging and versatile.

Alternate Picking

The fast, rhythmic passages in "Guitar Tango" require precise alternate picking. This technique ensures consistent articulation and speed, enabling you to tackle challenging runs with clarity and control.

Tremolo Picking

Certain sections of the song feature tremolo picking, where rapid picking creates a sustained, shimmering effect. This technique is crucial for building intensity and adding texture to your playing.

Double Stops

Marvin incorporates double stops to create harmonically rich melodies. These two-note combinations add fullness to your sound, enhancing the song's dramatic flair.

Chord Progressions

The intricate chord progressions in "Guitar Tango" reflect its Spanish-inspired influences. Understanding these progressions improves your harmonic knowledge and helps you craft more interesting accompaniments.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Learning the techniques featured in "Guitar Tango" has several advantages for your playing:

• Expressive Mastery: Techniques like vibrato and string bending enhance your ability to convey emotion through your instrument.
• Fretboard Fluidity: Slides and alternate picking improve your dexterity and precision across the fretboard.
• Dynamic Range: Incorporating double stops and tremolo picking adds depth and variation to your sound.
• Harmonic Understanding: Analysing the song’s chord progressions strengthens your grasp of music theory and chord construction.
• Technical Growth: Tackling these advanced techniques expands your repertoire and prepares you for more challenging pieces.

Guitar Techniques List

Here’s a breakdown of the guitar techniques used in "Guitar Tango," along with links to detailed explanations:

• Vibrato
• Slides
• String Bending
• Alternate Picking
• Tremolo Picking
• Double Stops
• Chord Progressions

Embark on your journey to mastering "Guitar Tango" today and elevate your guitar playing with the techniques that have defined generations of musicians!