On Fire: Guitar TAB Digital Sheet Music

On Fire: Guitar TAB Digital Sheet Music

Van Halen, Alex Van Halen, Edward Van Halen, David Lee Roth, Michael Anthony

Item: 00-PS-0000378

Digital Download
$2.99
Description

On Fire: Guitar TAB Digital Sheet Music isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.

Sample Audio
No sample audio found.
Sample Video
Additional Details
SKU: 00-PS-0000378

More about this title

About the Artist: Van Halen

Van Halen redefined rock guitar in the late 1970s with Eddie Van Halen's revolutionary technique and the band's explosive energy. Their self-titled 1978 debut introduced tapping, harmonic manipulation, and high-velocity runs that influenced generations of guitarists across multiple genres. The band's catalog remains essential listening for anyone serious about understanding modern rock guitar vocabulary.

Beyond technique, Van Halen proved that virtuosity and accessibility could coexist. Their songs balanced instrumental showmanship with memorable hooks and engaging song structures, making complex playing feel natural rather than academic. This approach to balancing technical mastery with musical purpose continues to inspire guitarists in education and performance settings.

Why we love this

On Fire captures Van Halen at their peak: a track that demands precision while rewarding rhythmic confidence and expressive control. The TAB format makes Eddie Van Halen's signature techniques transparent and learnable, transforming what sounds superhuman into achievable steps. This is the kind of material that keeps intermediate and advanced players motivated because they can feel themselves building real skills with every session.

What to expect

On Fire burns with controlled intensity. The track surges forward with rhythm-driven momentum before launching into dazzling technical passages that sparkle with harmonic detail and speed. Playing it demands focus and stamina while delivering the satisfaction of executing complex material with precision.

Who it's for

Intermediate to advanced electric guitar players ready to tackle rock material with technical complexity. This works for students preparing auditions, recitals, or portfolio pieces, as well as players building their repertoire of essential rock guitar songs. It's also valuable for study purposes, allowing players to deconstruct and learn from one of rock's most influential guitarists.

How to get the most out of it

  • Work the rhythm section before tackling the lead passages. Lock in the groove and tempo foundation so technical runs sit naturally rather than feeling rushed.
  • Study the pick attack and dynamics across different sections. Van Halen's tone comes from articulation choices as much as the notes themselves.
  • Break tapping passages into smaller segments and build speed gradually. Rushing through these moments muddies the clarity Eddie worked to achieve.
  • Pay attention to string bending and vibrato details shown in the TAB. These expressive elements distinguish a note-perfect performance from one that captures the actual song.

How to use it

Feature this as a recital solo or ensemble piece if your program includes student showcases of rock guitar. It works equally well as a long-term practice project for students developing technique, or as material for a topical concert exploring rock guitar innovation and influence.

Skills your students will build

  • Two-handed tapping and synchronization between hands
  • Fast scalar passages and hammer-on/pull-off technique
  • Harmonic articulation and controlled pick dynamics
  • Reading and executing complex TAB notation
  • Bending accuracy and vibrato control across multiple frets
  • Maintaining rhythm and groove through technically demanding sections

You May Also Like