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Classical Guitar Technique: Websites and BooksTechnique manuals from Tennant, Carlevaro, Duncan, Iznaola, Käppel and more, plus the best technique sites.
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Classical Guitar Technique: Websites and Books
Websites
Over 200 comprehensive, detailed articles on every aspect of classical guitar technique with video demonstrations.
Christopher Davis founded ClassicalGuitar.org in 2008. He holds a Masters degree in guitar performance. His site has lots of articles on technique and other useful topics.
(Leo Garcia) Numerous short articles on classical guitar technique. Best for intermediate and advanced players.
Exercises, scales, and arpeggios.
Douglas Niedt’s AI Wizards
Get technique answers from an AI chatbot trained on my technique tips.
The Wizard tells you exactly what is wrong with your barre chord and how to fix it.
Perfect your tremolo.
Books on classical guitar technique (modern)
(Boosey & Hawkes) Cuaderno No. 1: Diatonic Scales. Cuaderno No 2: Right Hand Technique (Arpeggios and various exercises). Cuaderno No 3: Left Hand Technique (Moving of the left hand along the diapason). Cuaderno No 4: Left Hand Technique (Conclusion). The real-life application of the principles from the Carlevaro School of Guitar: Exposition of Instrument Theory.
- Abel Carlevaro — School of Guitar: Exposition of Instrumental Theory
(Boosey & Hawkes, 1984). Out of print and no used copies to be found. The Serie Didáctica cuadernos below are the in-print practical application of the same ideas. Focuses on the physical side of performing and is one of the most insightful books on guitar playing ever written. Presents views of technique outside of the Segovia/Tárrega schools. Mostly theoretical, with numerous pictures and diagrams. Highly recommended for teachers and players interested in technique outside the Segovia school.
(Mel Bay) This comprehensive, illustrated text offers an in-depth look at the mechanics and musical thought process of teaching the classical guitar the "why" rather than the "how" the classical guitarist does things a certain way.
Charles Duncan deserves to be remembered as one of the important American classical-guitar pedagogues of the late 20th century. Not a "method" in the traditional sense, this book explains what happens in the finest classical guitar playing and what, in turn, the student can do to mold his or her playing to that ideal. Based on the Segovia school, it is an analytical investigation of physical technique. It discusses concepts such as muscle function, leverage, finger preparation, rotation, anticipation, relaxation, resistance, velocity, tone color, articulation, and expressive nuance. Highly recommended for intermediate and advanced players and an essential book for a university guitar pedagogy course.
This book assumes a modest music reading ability and some familiarity with basic classical guitar technique. A comprehensive exploration of the requirements for developing effortless and musically sensitive guitar technique.
(Oxford UP) Also under Health. Playing with Ease is a book about ergonomic technique for the guitar, as well as other instruments. David Leisner offers an introduction to the basic anatomy of movement, advice on relieving unnecessary tension, pioneering ideas about engaging large muscles, and tips for practicing and concert preparation.
(Chanterelle / Schott; also via Mel Bay) Written by one of the world’s leading classical guitarists, this book helps students develop the physical and mental skills necessary for mastery of the instrument. Rather than relying on mechanical repetition, it teaches students to analyze and overcome technical difficulties intelligently, developing the reflexes and techniques needed for effortless playing. The ultimate goal is to free the guitarist from conscious concern with physical technique so that playing becomes natural, intuitive, and musically creative.
The book is in three sections. The Prerequisites and Basics section gives detailed tips for effective, systematic practice and how to move when playing. The second, practical part contains many technique exercises (arpeggios, scale exercises, hammer-ons and pull-offs with the left hand, tremolo, flamenco techniques, speed training, vibrato techniques, and dynamic exercises. The third section covers fingering techniques, memory training, and comprehensive daily practice plans. Highly recommended for students of all levels.
(Bold Strummer) The Natural Classical Guitar presents a holistic approach with 10 principles that will help you develop yourself as well as your playing. The basic principle is to let nature support you in every way so that your playing is as effortless as possible. Related principles show how to practice and perform better by settling your mind, relaxing your body, balancing relaxation and activity, and using your mind to guide your fingers. Excellent book, good information, recommended.
A revised and expanded edition of Pepe Romero's Guitar Style and Technique (1982), which had been out of print for some time. New features include sections on tremolo, flamenco, concert performance, additional finger gymnastics, and a Romero photo album. It contains all of the music from the earlier version and several new pieces, all newly engraved.
(Mel Bay) “Ricardo Iznaola’s Kitharologus is an essential technical workout manual designed to elevate any guitarist's skill to a virtuosic level through structured, progressive routines. Suitable for all levels from novice to expert, this comprehensive manual focuses on mastering fundamental techniques. It is highly recommended for serious players aiming to maximize their technical proficiency.”
A concise booklet that presents a complete practice methodology for guitarists. Topics include inner and outer poise, issues affecting practice, visualization, and more.
A must-have technique handbook for all classical guitarists. Scott Tennant's encouraging style, sense of humor, and unique approach to technical training have earned Pumping Nylon devotees worldwide. At the heart of it all is the famous Daily Warm-Up Routine," which includes 11 clever, helpful exercises to get both hands in shape and ready to play while improving your technical skills. Highly recommended.