Pink Panther
June 25, 2007 · Print This Article
At last, a tab I can get right (sort of)
Henry Mancini is probably the most famous writer of TV and film scores. Many of his themes are so memorable as to outlive their original source; such as Baby Elephant Walk (from the forgotten film Hatari) and Peter Gunn (from the hipster detective series of the same name).
Mancini’s theme for the Pink Panther films (and later TV show) strikes the perfect balance between detective intrigue and humour. My version of it is not entirely faithful and was developed from a guitar arrangement by Colin Reid.
The main trick to get right in this tune is the balance between the melody and the chord accompaniment. You should concentrate on keeping the melody strong and at the forefront while while the chords are more soft and only played between the melody notes. I’ve tabbed the chords very loosely as I usual improvise the rhythm for the accompaniment. For expert use of this style check out Ohta-San.
Tricky sections of this piece are bars 9 and 13. Although these bars are essentially the same, you need to finger them differently or you’ll come unstuck. I’ve put the left hand fingering I use in these section underneath the tab and done the same for the run in bar 20. I should say that, even though I don’t do it in the video, it would be best to repeat the first section of the tab as it is the most recognisable part.
The tune finishes on the ‘International Man of Mystery Chord’. This chord is an Am7M. It contains a minor third but a minor seventh giving a double identity which has made it almost ubiquitous in spy and detective themes.
One final consideration: it’s absolutely essential that you play this tune on pink strings.
Requested by Fran.
THAAAAAAAAAANKS!!!! You have free drinks when visit Spain :-))))
You’re welcome, Fran. I’ll hold you to that
Thanks very much for the tab!
You’re welcome. Enjoy playing it.
This version of Pink Panther rocks!
Thank you, Jenny. I hope to hear your version soon
Can You teach Me that picking
Free drink and host for Rome, Italy, too!
I want to buy an uku to begin…
What would you suggest?
I already play the guitar so I’d like to buy something that…
It’s a real instrument…
Even if cheap.
Would you suggest soprano?
Tenore?
I would also like something that can be amplified too…
I know nothing about brands and costs…
Any hints?
Thanks, Pitto. Pretty soon I’ll be able to drink my way around Europe
I switched from guitar to uke too. My favourite size uke is concert but all sizes have their advantages. If you’re anything like me, you’ll end up with one of each anyway.
For amplified ukes check out the Ovation Applause semi-acoustics ukes or RISA have some cool and unusual full-electric ukes.
this is so awesome!
after watching the video i couldn’t wait to learn it
ps. i guess in order to follow suit i should offer you a drink whever you come to visit historic, mechaniscburg, pennsylvania. bet, you can’t wait for that one
-michele
Thanks, Michelle. I shall add you to my ‘World Drinking Tour’ map
Nice work…it makes me realise how far I really have to go to consider myself competent. If you come down to Surrey I’ll buy you a drink or two (in between reaally bad jamming of course).
just started playing Ukulele about two weeks ago and it really is a lovely instrument…but this website makes it all the sweeter. great taste in songs man..and this pink panther one is challenging too which is always a plus
Thanks, Tom. I’ve just checked out your MySpace. Love your songs.
hello i wanna learn this song can you send me the tabs or any links to it i would really appreciate it thank you. ohhhh and by the way awesome playing.
Click where it says ‘Pink Panther (Tabs)’
Nice playing Al.Peter Sellars( also a uke player) would be proud.
Thanks, Rob.