The New Complete Guitarist

by Richard Chapman

Strum it like Satriani and pluck it like Page! Breaking new ground with an all-visual approach to mastering the guitar, this is the most comprehensive playing manual ever devised. From simple chords to more complex styles, future rock gods and jazz princesses will be inspired by this guide.

Genres: Music, Reference

208 pages, Paperback

First published November 3, 2003

Reviews

[Gage · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book after already having played guitar for 10 years. I have improved immensely from reading this, and my only regret is not buying it sooner. I've read it cover to cover about 3 times and still find something new every time I review a chapter. It's a great overview of theory and technique. The arrangement of the chapters is a little awkward though. At the beginning, where one would expect to find introductory lessons for new guitarists, there is a really out of place chapter about flamenco, where there's an in-depth look at scales and techniques used in flamenco, before the concept of scales or modes or minor/major chords have been introduced. Aside from that and the fact that the technology/recording section at the end is really dated, this book is flawless. Every guitarist could benefit from reading it.

[Freda Mans-Labianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book on guitars! It hits every topic, from who makes them, to what you can do with them. There is not much untouched in the book.
I am impressed that this book can be used for beginners wanting to learn how to play guitar. It teaches you how to hold the guitar properly, how to strum, and where the chords are. It even teaches you some songs.
This is a must-have for any music fanatic, or if you just wish to learn more about guitars.

[Michael Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down the best guitar book I have ever read.

From the history of the instrument itself, its birth and transformation into the uber popular status of present day, the individual guitar making companies and of course how to play.

A great read for any guitarist but especially for a novice.

[MJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Covers everything you would like to know about guitars. Especially the scales on the open strings and in the alternate and stretch fingering patterns as well as covering the chord formations and barre techniques. Definitely good reference book to have on hand when practicing!

[Anita Wirawan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great all around reference book for the guitar. Lots of illustrations and diagrams. It's not something you read cover to cover but it's nice to have when you need it.