Mastering the Classical Guitar Book 1A

Book excerpt: Mastering the Classical Guitar, Book 1A is the first in a progressive series using a wide variety of musical repertoire and educational material to provide a solid technical foundation for classical guitar students, exposing the full range of the instrument’s potential and repertoire. Book 1A is most appropriate for students with no prior knowledge of the guitar or music theory, or for those who simply want a fresh start with the classic guitar. It is written in three broad sections: Progressive Studies and Pieces, Technical Exercises and Rhythmic Reading. Tips on how to integrate the three sections are provided throughout the book. Every chapter begins with exercises written specifically to improve a certain aspect of one’s playing, followed by various examples from the classical music repertoire and traditional songs from various cultures. While every aspect of classical guitar technique is clearly described and illustrated, students using this book would still benefit from the advice and constructive feedback of a competent teacher. Consequently, teachers will find opportunities to assert their individual teaching perspectives within this method, making it a perfect road map for the instructor and student’s musical journey. Written in standard notation only, Mastering the Classical Guitar, Book 1A comes with extensive online audio examples. Fingering is kept to a minimum to encourage effective sight reading, allowing teachers and students to annotate their own ideas about digitation and contribute to their own learning process. Includes access to online audio.