In this lesson we're going to be learning how to play Chet Atkin's version of Pat Ballard's 1950s hit song 'Mister Sandman'.
There's no doubt that this is a fiddly piece to play and really requires some fretting hand strength. The song has complicated and demanding chords throughout, so you're going to have to grip each one just right whilst simultaneously playing the melody line. For that reason, really take your time and if you feel a lot of strain in your hand take a break.
I've transcribed and taught the live version of Chet playing Mister Sandman in this lesson. The song comes in at just under two minutes but it's full of twists and turns and there's an awful lot to remember.
Alright, let's start learning how to play Mister Sandman!
Song Details:
- Tempo - 110 bpm
- Tuning - standard
- Difficulty - advanced
Mister Sandman (Performance)
As you learn to play Mister Sandman, be sure to frequently return to the performance as a good reference point and guide.
Want to be a truly great player?
Get HUNDREDS of fingerstyle video lessons for an incredible 40% OFF!
Take advantage of this brilliant offer and learn absolutely everything you need to know about fingerpicking.
Get 25% off tabs when you join the mailing list
Thanks for subscribing! Please check your email for further instructions.
Mister Sandman Guitar Lesson (Part 1)
If your hands are on the smaller side then straight away you're going to run into some problems as the first few bars require some pretty huge stretches. In order to make it easier on yourself, make sure you drop your thumb right down the back of the neck as you play these wide grips, this really allows your fingers to open up.
Mister Sandman (Part 2)
This is where Chet adds some extra parts for his live version. If you're not keen on it you can just play the previous section but in the key of D.
Want to learn more fingerpicking songs?
Already mastered the basics?
Develop your fingerpicking skills and musicality. This is the perfect course to take you through to becoming an advanced player.
Join the course today and take your fingerstyle playing up a gear!
Mister Sandman (Part 3)
Finally we have the last part, it's pretty similar to the first section just in the key of C.
Write your own fingerstyle arrangements!
Arrange all your favourite songs for fingerstyle guitar with this step-by-step guide.
Learn my tried and tested formula that works on any song!
Want to learn some fun fingerstyle arrangements of famous songs?: Can't Help Falling In Love (Elvis Presley), Take Me Home, Country Roads (John Denver), Don't Look Back In Anger (Oasis), Ticket to Ride (The Beatles), Have You Ever Seen The Rain (Creedence Clearwater Revival).
Alternatively you can browse the whole song catalogue: Song Lesson Library
Let me know what you thought of the lesson in the comments section below. Say what you found hard/easy, what level you're at and what your fingerpicking goals are.
[…] Mister Sandman by Chet Atkins (Guitar Lesson and Tabs) […]
Is there no downloadable score?
There will be in time.
Thanks, can’t wait!
Very nice lesson. And number one free pedagogic ressource online, One thing missing is the chord name. May be something to consider adding to your future lessons,
Best of luck for your academy.
Thanks Seb, I don’t know why I didn’t put the chord names on, I always normally do. I’ll be transcribing this one again soon for publication so it will definitely have the chords on.
such amazing lessons thank you so much!
Thanks a lot!
Awesome lesson! Definitely one of the harder fingerstyle arrangements I’ve played, but it’s coming along slowly and surely thanks to the great instruction. Learning the limits of how far I can stretch my fingers as well…
Cheers Spencer, yeah this one is hard! But really good for your playing.