Simply Rock 60s: Piano Book

Coates' ear for what works on piano shines throughout this collection. Rather than shrinking these rock classics down, he's crafted arrangements that capture their energy and attitude while staying within the reach of intermediate players. The fingering, phrase shaping, and dynamic markings do the interpretive heavy lifting, so your students can focus on bringing personality to songs they actually want to play.

These arrangements capture the swagger and joy of 1960s rock and pop. Whether you're playing the defiant attitude of "My Generation," the melancholic beauty of "The Sound of Silence," or the infectious fun of "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini," the piano writing lets you feel the spirit of each era. The large print and clean notation keep the page uncluttered, so the music itself stays front and center.

Intermediate pianists who love the energy of 1960s rock and want to play recognizable hits without waiting years to reach advanced repertoire. This collection works equally well for students seeking motivation through music they care about and for teachers looking to bridge the gap between classical etudes and contemporary songwriting.

• Study the phrase markings before diving into the notes. Coates has notated them with intention; following them shapes how the song breathes and lands emotionally.
• Pay close attention to the articulation marks, especially in songs with a driving rhythm. They're the difference between playing the notes and nailing the groove.
• Use the fingering suggestions as a starting point, not gospel. If a fingering feels awkward for your hand, adjust it, but understand why Coates suggested it first.
• Lock in the tempo from the first line. These songs live by their rhythmic pocket; rushing or dragging deflates them.

String these songs across student recitals throughout the year, pairing them with classical repertoire to show pianists how different traditions speak to each other. They're also perfect for casual performance venues: coffee shops, community events, or student jam sessions where the goal is connection over competition. A cluster of these pieces can form a rock-themed recital that draws an audience beyond the typical piano parent.

• Interpreting phrase markings and articulations to shape musical character
• Reading and executing dynamic changes that define 1960s production style
• Maintaining steady rhythmic pocket in syncopated and driving accompaniment patterns
• Recognizing and executing swing rhythms and blues-influenced harmonic movement
• Balancing melody and accompaniment to support vocal phrasing in song-based arrangements
• Applying fingering suggestions strategically for technical efficiency in contemporary music