Belwin's 21st Century Guitar Ensemble Series: Evil Ways: Guitar Score, Parts & Online Audio

Laid-back and groove-centered, with the kind of swagger that made the original a festival staple. The arrangement invites players to feel the Latin-tinged rhythm underneath the rock groove, creating a vibe that's simultaneously relaxed and hypnotic.

Middle and high school guitarists at the beginning of their ensemble experience, particularly those who respond to recognizable rock and pop repertoire. This works equally well in group guitar classes, guitar ensemble courses, or mixed-level ensembles where newer players benefit from the simplified arrangement alongside more advanced peers.

• Lock the groove between the rhythm guitars before adding any flourishes; the pocket matters more than precision at this level, so focus the ensemble on feeling the pulse together.
• Use the online recording as a reference for tempo and feel, but encourage students to listen for how the bass (if included) anchors the two-chord movement.
• Create space for improvised solos by having non-soloing guitarists maintain the vamp consistently; this teaches ensemble awareness and gives confident players a chance to explore within the harmonic boundaries.

Program this as a concert opener or a high-energy mid-set piece that connects with student musicians and audiences alike. The built-in improvisation possibilities also make it ideal for showcasing student soloists in a recital or end-of-year performance.

• Reading guitar tablature and standard notation simultaneously
• Maintaining a steady groove over two-chord vamps
• Ensemble rhythm section coordination with optional bass guitar
• Basic improvisation within a fixed harmonic framework
• Listening and responding to other ensemble voices while playing a consistent part