Hi guys,

Just wondering if anyone has any songs they recommend learning first.
I just got a 10-String MR stick yesterday and am itching to learn some stuff!
- Josh

Giant Steps from John Coltrane. If you can play this tune and you are fluent with improvising on the changes you can play everything else, too.

No, serious, start with some easy melodies that you know. Something you do not have to think about, because you know it so well. Just get used to the feel of the instument. Then take some tunes that you really like, and that do not have a complicated melody and harmony. There are some Beatles tunes that might be good for a start (for example Eleonor Rigby)...

Just take it easy and enjoy your new instrument!

Best,
TheMM

I have ALWAYS felt that learning Police tunes was the best way to get started on the Chapman Stick.

When you get past that, then try some Sade tunes.

These two artists have some great bass lines in their songs that get progressively more intricate while remaining melodic and of course - funky.

When you master "Spirits In The Material World" then add the guitar part on the melody side. Yummy.

i plan on starting with

1. Dear Prudence
2. every breath you take
3. baba o'riley
4. cowboy song

I would recommend starting with songs you personally like. That way you'll be more heartfelt about accomplishing the mission. Of course pick easy 3 chord tunes (not Giant Steps). Ballads are also best because you have time to think about your next move (not so easy with Giant Steps).

Ira Memberwen

Just a reminder : [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHf7JqUmcBE[/youtube]
This guy, very nice, is a killer at jazz tunes!