“Meditation No. 1” is a beginning level 1 piece that requires students to read open first, second and third strings. The piece uses quarter, eighth, and whole notes. Guitars 1 & 2 set up with p on string 3, i on string 2, and m on string 1. Guitar 1 reads the open first and second strings. Guitar 2 reads the open second and third strings. Teach guitar 3 by rote using the notation as reinforcement.

“Meditation No. 1” features a very simple repetitive pattern. In keeping with the calm character of the piece, demand fantastic tone and smooth legato. For the final chord, ask guitars 1&2 to strum down through the treble strings with the flesh of p.

Keep in mind that, even though this is a carefully constructed technical piece of music, the primary goal of this - and every - piece of music should be joyful, expressive music making.

The attached audio performance is from an ensemble at the Williamson County Juvenile Justice Center directed by Hector Aguilar.