Banjo tablatures for Arkansas Traveler

Practicing Tips

Delve into the rich world of bluegrass banjo with the 'Arkansas Traveler'. Offering tablatures in Scruggs, Melodic, and Backup Styles, this resource is designed to challenge and inspire intermediate players. Explore the nuances of this medium-tempo, old-timey fiddle tune.

One of the key aspects that set this learning resource apart is its use of the Tunefox platform, particularly the Lick Switcher feature. Boost your lick vocabulary and breathe new life into the song by discovering diverse variations hidden within each measure. This customization ensures that your rendition of the tune stays unique and exciting.

Don't worry about the difficulty level, as the Arrange slider has you covered. Slide to the left for a simpler, pared-down arrangement or push to the right to include all additional notes for a complete rendition of the song. Either way, you're in control.

Further personalize your learning experience by adjusting the tempo as per your comfort using the tempo slider. Making small changes as you grow more comfortable can help push your boundaries and improve your skill.

Make practice sessions engaging with backing tracks. Select specific measures to repeat, and use the 'Speed Up' function to incrementally increase your tempo. Start slow and gradually work your way up, mastering each tier before moving on to the next one. This method has proven effective in mastering the nuances and intricate rhythms of the 'Arkansas Traveler'.

Ultimately, remember that learning a new song like 'Arkansas Traveler' is all about dedication, patience, and consistency. Practice regularly, embrace the challenges it presents, and you'll not only learn a new song but enhance your overall banjo performance skills.

Arkansas Traveler lyrics

Oh, once upon a time in Arkansas
An old man sat in his little cabin door
And fiddled at a tune that he liked to hear
A jolly old tune that he played by ear
It was raining hard, but the fiddler didn't care
He sawed aways at the popular air
Though his rooftop leaked like a waterfall
That didn't seem to bother the old man at all

A traveler was riding by that day
And stopped to hear him a-fiddling away
The cabin was afloat and his feet were wet
But the old man still didn't seem to fret
So the stranger said Now, the way it seems to me
You'd better mend your roof said he
But the old man said as he played away
I couldn't mend it now, it's a rainy day

The rtaveler replied that's all quite true
But this I think is the thing for you to do
Get busy on a day that is fair and bright
Then patch the old roof till it's good and tight
But the old man kept on a-playing at his reel
And tapped the ground with his leathery heel
Get along said he for you give me a pain
My cabin never leaks when it doesn't rain