'Peter Gunn' by Duane Eddy

Introduction

The Peter Gunn Theme, originally composed by Henry Mancini for the television series Peter Gunn, became an instantly recognisable piece of music due to its driving rhythm and powerful melody. Duane Eddy’s rendition of this track takes it to another level with his signature "twangy" guitar sound, which played a crucial role in shaping the sound of rock and roll.

At LickLibrary.com, we offer a detailed guitar lesson on "Peter Gunn," focusing on the techniques that define this classic track. Whether you're an aspiring guitarist or an experienced player looking to refine your skills, this lesson will help you master the unique playing style that made Duane Eddy a legend. Steve Trovato breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Duane Eddy: The Titan of Twang

Born on April 26, 1938, in Corning, New York, Duane Eddy started playing the guitar at the age of five. He became famous for his deep, reverberant guitar tone, achieved by playing lead melodies on the lower strings with heavy use of reverb and tremolo. His distinct sound earned him the title "Titan of Twang" and influenced countless guitarists, including George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen, and John Fogerty.

Throughout his career, Eddy produced numerous hits, such as "Rebel-'Rouser" and "Because They're Young," and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. His contribution to instrumental rock remains undeniable, and "Peter Gunn" is one of his most iconic performances.

Techniques Explored in 'Peter Gunn'

Our lesson on "Peter Gunn" covers several essential guitar techniques that are foundational to the song’s unique sound. These techniques will not only help you play this classic track but also improve your overall guitar skills.

1. Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is a fundamental technique where the pick strikes the strings with alternating downstrokes and upstrokes. This method ensures efficiency and speed, which are essential for executing the repetitive, driving riff in "Peter Gunn." Mastering alternate picking will improve your ability to play fast passages cleanly and with greater control.

2. Palm Muting

Palm muting involves resting the side of your picking hand lightly on the strings near the bridge while playing. This technique creates a percussive, muted effect that adds rhythmic intensity to the riff. In "Peter Gunn," palm muting is used to build tension and emphasise the groove. Learning this technique will help you develop better dynamics and control in your playing.

3. String Bending

String bending is the technique of pushing or pulling a string across the fretboard to raise its pitch. While subtle in "Peter Gunn," bends add expressiveness and character to the melody. Practicing string bending will enhance your ability to create vocal-like phrasing in your solos and improve pitch accuracy.

4. Vibrato

Vibrato is the subtle oscillation of a note’s pitch achieved by quickly bending and releasing the string. In "Peter Gunn," Duane Eddy uses vibrato to sustain notes with a rich, expressive quality. Developing strong vibrato technique will add depth and emotion to your playing, making your solos sound more polished and professional.

5. Slides

Sliding involves moving your finger along the string from one fret to another without lifting it off. This technique is used in "Peter Gunn" to create smooth transitions between notes, adding fluidity to the melody. Mastering slides will improve your ability to connect phrases seamlessly and bring a legato feel to your playing.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

By focusing on these techniques, our "Peter Gunn" lesson offers several benefits:

• Enhanced Rhythmic Precision: Alternate picking and palm muting improve timing and control, making your rhythm playing more solid and dynamic.
• Expressive Playing: String bending and vibrato allow you to infuse emotion into your solos, giving your playing a unique and personal touch.
• Smooth Transitions: Slides help create fluid movement across the fretboard, allowing you to play melodic lines more naturally.

These skills are not only crucial for playing "Peter Gunn" but are also applicable to various musical styles, making you a more versatile guitarist.

Conclusion

Our "Peter Gunn" guitar lesson at LickLibrary.com provides an in-depth exploration of essential guitar techniques within the context of a rock and roll classic. By studying Duane Eddy's approach, you'll gain valuable skills that enhance your playing and deepen your appreciation for one of the genre's pioneers.

Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Palm Muting
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Slides

By mastering these techniques, you'll be well-equipped to tackle "Peter Gunn" and apply these skills to a wide array of musical contexts. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, these foundational techniques will help you elevate your playing and develop a more polished and expressive style.