About This Piece
Windy and Warm is one of the most widely covered fingerstyle pieces in existence. Written by John D. Loudermilk and recorded by Chet Atkins in 1962, it's become a rite of passage for fingerstyle guitarists. The piece exemplifies everything that makes Travis picking beautiful: a rock-steady bass, a singing melody, and the illusion of two instruments playing simultaneously.
Almost every notable fingerstyle guitarist has recorded a version — Tommy Emmanuel's arrangement is particularly celebrated.
Why This Piece Matters
Windy and Warm teaches Travis picking in its most musical form. Unlike technical exercises, this piece rewards thoughtful phrasing and tonal variation. It's also very singable — the melody is memorable and shapes naturally over the alternating bass.
The Travis Picking Foundation
The piece is built on a consistent alternating bass pattern:
- Thumb alternates between strings 4/5/6 (depending on the chord)
- Fingers pick strings 1, 2, 3 for melody and harmony
- The thumb and fingers operate independently
The fundamental challenge: Your thumb must tick back and forth like a metronome, completely independent of what your fingers do. This takes time to develop — don't rush it.
Chet Atkins' Arrangement
Atkins' original uses a thumb pick and two fingers. His version is notable for:
- Extremely even, consistent bass notes
- Clear separation between bass and melody
- Tasteful grace notes and embellishments
- Natural sounding dynamics
Learning Path
Stage 1: Just the Bass (Days 1–3)
Practice the alternating bass pattern on open strings. Your thumb should move automatically, without thought, before adding any melody.
Stage 2: Open Position Melody (Week 1–2)
Add the simple G-position melody over the alternating bass. Keep your thumb going no matter what.
Stage 3: Moving Through Chords (Week 2–4)
Practice the chord changes — G to C to D — while maintaining the bass pattern. This is where most players get stuck.
Stage 4: Full Arrangement (Week 4–8)
Add embellishments, dynamics, and personal expression. Make it yours.
The Real Goal
Many players can eventually play Windy and Warm technically. Fewer can make it sound like music rather than an exercise. The goal is to play it so naturally that listeners forget they're hearing a technical feat — they simply hear a song.