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The Wondrous Adventures of Rocky for guitar (2019) by Jennah Vainio consists of 15 pieces that combine classical guitar technique with heavy metal and rock aesthetics. There are not many works like these available for elementary-level players. The musical world of the compositions speaks strongly to both the player and the listener. Each piece has a clear pedagogical goal, related to the activities of Rocky the dog. For example, in “Frisbee Fetching,” which depicts throwing a frisbee, the student attempts to “catch” the glissando note in the same way a dog catches a frisbee flying through the air.

These compositions stimulate the students' imagination and help them to see beyond the notes, thereby giving meaning to what is played and heard—and that, above all, is highly motivating for practice.