Once Bitten Twice Shy: Lead Sheet / Fake Book

This lead sheet captures one of the era's most recognizable rock hooks in a format that works equally well for piano students exploring rock repertoire and ensemble arrangements. The straightforward melodic line lets pianists focus on voice leading and accompaniment voicing while maintaining the song's signature attitude.

Propulsive and defiant. The energy builds from a driven rhythmic foundation into a chorus that announces itself with complete certainty. There's swagger in the phrasing and a satisfaction in the resolution that keeps listeners engaged across repeated listens.

Pianists and vocalists who want to explore recognizable rock material beyond classical and jazz standards. This works well for students bridging into contemporary styles or for ensemble contexts where piano covers an essential harmonic role.

• Lock into the groove's pocket rather than rushing; the strength of this song lives in its rhythmic confidence, not in speed.
• Experiment with your left hand voicing to balance fullness with clarity. The lead sheet gives you freedom to voice chords in ways that complement the melody.
• If singing, commit fully to the attitude of the lyric. This song demands conviction; half-measures flatten the energy.
• Consider the original arrangement when choosing your register and dynamic shape. The familiar version sits in a specific range that listeners expect.

Include this in a contemporary music showcase or rock repertoire recital to demonstrate students' range beyond traditional genres. It works particularly well when programming alongside other songs from the 1980s rock canon, creating a set that acknowledges pop culture while maintaining musical credibility.

• Reading and interpreting lead sheet notation
• Voicing triads and extensions in a rock harmonic context
• Balancing melody and accompaniment without full orchestration
• Phrasing rock vocal lines with consistent energy