Whipping Post: Easy Guitar

This collection pairs music that shaped rock culture with arrangements that actually work for developing guitarists. Each song is a recognizable standard with genuine melodic and harmonic substance, so students feel like they're playing real music from day one, not studying exercises disguised as songs.

Classic rock from an era when guitar was king. These songs carry the swagger and groove of the '70s, mixed with the blues feeling that runs through each one. Expect memorable hooks, steady grooves, and the satisfaction of playing music that shaped modern rock.

Guitarists moving beyond absolute beginner material who want to play complete, recognizable songs rather than simplified fragments. Students preparing for recitals or jam sessions benefit from having classic rock repertoire under their fingers at a playable level.

• Lock in the shuffle or swing feel where it appears. These '70s classics depend on rhythmic pocket, not just accuracy.
• Let the melody breathe in ballads like 'Layla.' Resist rushing; the phrasing is part of what makes these songs memorable.
• Use dynamics to shape the arrangement. Even simplified versions benefit from softer verses and fuller choruses.
• Pay close attention to any indicated palm muting or mute techniques. They're essential to capturing the original recordings' character.

Assign one song at a time as students progress through the level, using them as reinforcement for specific techniques or as motivating repertoire between method book assignments. They also work beautifully in student recitals where recognizable songs often inspire the most enthusiastic audiences.

• Reading guitar tablature and standard notation in combination
• Executing rock and blues rhythm patterns (shuffle, swing, straight eighth feel)
• Barre chord application and voice leading in open and moveable shapes
• Controlling dynamics and articulation within simplified arrangements
• Recognizing and playing common rock progressions across multiple songs