Summary

This book provides an all-in-one approach for adults wishing to learn this popular instrument. It incorporates a brief history of the instrument and provides a thorough introduction to its parts, what they do, and what to look for when buying one. There are invaluable tips on maintenance and care gleaned by the author from decades as a travelling concert guitarist. There is advice on changing strings, tuning, posture, and finding a good teacher. The Learning to Play section develops playing and music-reading skills gradually and simultaneously, and fully explains notation for the guitar. Left and right hand technique are explained. This cumulative approach will soon pay off, and the reader should soon be able to play a version of Malaguena, using notes on the first to the fourth strings. Then chords are introduced. This section concludes with advice on practising, and some tips for 'troubleshooting'. Chapter three is devoted to some of the most important periods and styles in the history and development of the classical guitar, looking at key composers and stylists and the influences that shaped their compositions for the instrument. guitar, including blues and jazz, bossa nova, folk and pop/rock, and flamenco, illustrated with musical examples. Chapter five offers more advanced musical ideas, including information on intervals, scales, key signature, barre chords and harmonics. It includes profiles of famous players and a list of recommended recordings.