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Banjo tablatures for Dear Old Dixie

Earl Scruggs

Recomended level: Intermediate

Tags: #instrumental, #up-the-neck, #up-tempo

Dear old Dixie is a bluegrass song that made it into the heart of bluegrass lover heart. It was first recorded and released by early Scruggs and Lester flat. The song had a cover from foggy mountain boys in 1953. Who writes the song is still a bit unclear but it is available online to buy and to get a sample. It's more of a minstrel number and has lyrics that sound like a traveler enjoying a very pleasant day of summer. It's written in a very challenging tune as it is written in the key of “F”.

  • Banjo Dear Old Dixie Scruggs Style

    Scruggs Style

    • Difficulty
    • Key
      G
    • Tempo
      140 bpm
    • Tuning
      gDGBD

    This IS the way Earl played it...Just a little slower ;)

    Banjo Dear Old Dixie Scruggs Style
    Learn
  • Banjo Dear Old Dixie Melodic Style

    Melodic Style

    • Difficulty
    • Key
      G
    • Tempo
      150 bpm
    • Tuning
      gDGBD

    Like Alan Munde? He's pretty good right? Check out this arrangement to learn melodic runs just the way he plays them.

    Banjo Dear Old Dixie Melodic Style
    Learn
  • Banjo Dear Old Dixie Backup

    Backup

    • Difficulty
    • Key
      G
    • Tempo
      140 bpm
    • Tuning
      gDGBD

    This is a transcription of Earl's backup. The tempo is only suggested. Play at what ever speed you enjoy, and practice even slower. Earl actually demolished this tune at 165-170 bpm....

    Banjo Dear Old Dixie Backup
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Practicing Tips

The 'Dear Old Dixie' learning resource provides bluegrass banjo enthusiasts with all the tools needed to master this classic song. Designed for intermediate-level players, it offers tabs in Scruggs, Melodic, and Backup Styles. These instrumental, up-the-neck, and up-tempo variants capture the richness of the banjo playing techniques. In doing this, learners will expand their repertoire, fostering their musical growth.


One of the highlights of this resource is the innovative Tunefox platform. There, you'll find the Lickswitcher tool, a tool that allows you to swap licks in individual measures. This fosters a creative learning approach, where learners can customize their practice sessions. They can experiment with different licks, enhancing flexibility in their playing style and deepening their understanding of the song's structure.


Alongside the Lickswitcher, the Arrange slider is an essential tool in the Tunefox platform. This tool permits users to adjust the song's difficulty level and tone to match their skill level and musical preferences. By using it, learners can continually challenge themselves while ensuring the music remains enjoyable and engaging to play.


The 'Hide notes' slider is designed to enhance learners' auditory skills. By enabling learners to conceal individual notes, they are encouraged to learn the tune by ear, fostering ear training. This method can greatly help improve musical intuition and memory, making it a valuable technique for any budding banjo player.


As you navigate through this learning resource, remember that practice and consistency are key. Take your time to familiarize yourself with the song structure and the various playing styles. Experiment with different licks using the Lickswitcher tool and adjust the song using the Arrange slider to match your current skill level. And, most importantly, use the 'Hide notes' slider to enhance your auditory abilities. With dedication, you will no doubt master 'Dear Old Dixie' in no time at all.