This video lesson offers you a tutorial on the iconic intro to Stairway to Heaven on fingerstyle ukulele.
Why is the intro so magical?
Jimmy Page’s introduction to Stairway was first recorded in 1971. It takes a simple descending chromatic bass line and contrasts that with an ascending upper line. This is often called “contrary motion.” That contrary motion, along with a wonderful almost Renaissance-like chord progression, is what makes this intro so magical.
What’s in the lesson
The lesson gives you a full walkthrough on the left-hand fingers you’ll need, including barre chords. But, more importantly, you’ll learn the right-hand fingerings and arpeggio patterns. Because this is a fingerstyle arrangement, you can play all of these contrasting voices on the instrument. And this is just not possible with most strumming arrangements.
Performance
If you haven’t had a chance to watch Jeff’s full performance of the whole song (including the epic guitar solo!), then check it out here right now!
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While you’re here, check out some of our other free lessons here!
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If you would like to dive much deeper into learning fingerstyle ukulele with a structured guide for your progress, join Ukulele Corner Academy, our online school for fingerstyle ukulele.
Awesome! I love this intro lesson – thank you, thank you, thank you!
I enjoy your lessons. It’s easy to follow and understand your directions. How can I obtain the tabs to “Stairway to Heaven” Tutorial.
Hi Alan, tabs are not available due to copyright reasons. I’ll let you know if we are able to share the tabs in the future.
Thank you for your generosity inproviding free lessons. I’ve completed your Selected Fingerstyle Solos. They have helped me advance my fingerstyle playing. I always look forward to your emails and posts. Love Stairway To Heaven. I even made my own tab arrangement of this.