When we first start playing the guitar, especially the electric guitar, it’s easy to fall into the habit of learning a few riffs here and there, maybe a lick or an interesting passage from a song we love. It’s fun to pick up these small pieces of music and feel like we’re making progress. However, more often than not, that’s all we learn—some scales, some chord progressions—and that becomes the extent of our musical knowledge. The problem arises when we’re asked to play something, and we realize we can’t play a complete piece from beginning to end. Instead, we end up playing the riffs or licks we know, but we can’t deliver a full song.

In the long run, this habit limits us. We might have fun jamming in our bedroom, but when it comes to sharing our music with others, we find ourselves at a loss. It’s important to focus on learning complete songs or pieces and I want to tell you why. Yes, it involves a bit more effort and discipline, but it’s well worth it.

The Importance of Learning Full Pieces

Learning entire songs or pieces ensures that you can actually perform something start to finish, which is especially valuable when playing for an audience, no matter the size. For electric guitarists, the repertoire of instrumental pieces isn’t as vast as it is of sung songs, but there are still plenty of iconic songs worth mastering. For instance, if someone asks you to play something, it’s better to be able to play a full song rather than just fragments. This ability not only builds your confidence but also enhances your enjoyment of the instrument.

Pushing Your Limits—But Not Too Far

One key aspect is choosing the right songs. You want pieces that are within your skill level but still challenging enough to push your boundaries. Picking something too complex can lead to frustration, which might deter you from playing. On the other hand, choosing very long pieces can bore your audience. It’s about finding that sweet spot—a song that is achievable, enjoyable, and engaging.

When you’re deciding which pieces to learn, it’s important to challenge yourself, but not too much. If you’re a beginner or intermediate player, aim to improve by about 20%. This means choosing songs that are slightly more difficult than what you’re comfortable with. This approach helps you grow as a guitarist without setting yourself up for frustration. If you choose something that’s too far beyond your current abilities, you’re more likely to feel discouraged and may even consider giving up.

Considering Your Audience

When choosing what to play, it’s also important to consider your audience. Think about one of the most iconic concerts in history—Queen’s performance at Live Aid. They didn’t play their more obscure songs; instead, they chose a sequence of hits that everyone would recognize and enjoy. They understood that not everyone in the audience was a die-hard Queen fan, so they tailored their setlist to ensure a memorable performance.

Similarly, when you’re playing for others, it’s worth keeping in mind what your audience might enjoy. You don’t need to please everyone, but selecting songs that are familiar and appealing can make your performance more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Building a Repertoire

There are certain genres and styles that are both fun to play and generally well-received. For example, surf guitar is a genre that’s relatively easy to get into. All you need is an amp with plenty of spring reverb and a clean tone—no distortion required. There are many surf-style pieces, like those played by The Ventures, that are simple yet very attractive. People tend to enjoy them, and they’re easy to play.

I’ll be featuring some of these songs on the blog, including Link Wray’s “Rumble,” which is a simple but effective piece where the key lies in the guitar tone. Another example is the James Bond theme—an iconic and simple tune that works well when played with the right touch.

Sharing Your Music

Once you’ve built up a repertoire, consider performing for friends or loved ones. A small concert of about 20-30 minutes can be a great way to share your music and show off your skills.

For bedroom guitarists like myself, learning a good repertoire is not just about personal enjoyment—it’s about being able to share your hobby, taste, art, and talent with others. So, don’t just stick to riffs and licks. Take the time to learn full songs, and you’ll find that your guitar journey becomes much more fulfilling.