If you’re looking to up your jazz guitar game, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best resources available. With these books and CDs, you’ll be able to transition from a beginner to an intermediate or advanced player in no time! Check out our top picks below:
“The Jazz Guitar Handbook: A Complete Course in All Styles of Jazz” by Backbeat Books
If you’re a beginner to jazz guitar, this book is a great place to start. With a clear and concise approach, this book covers everything you need to know to start playing jazz guitar. From basic chord progression to advanced techniques, this book has it all. It even includes a CD with examples to help you learn!
One of the best things about this book is the way it’s organized. Each chapter focuses on a different style of jazz, so you can learn everything from bebop to fusion with ease. Plus, the writing is so clear and concise that even if you’re not familiar with music theory, you’ll be able to follow along with ease.
“Jazz Guitar Chord Melodies” by – Softcover Guitar Solo Book (no Lyrics) and Examples CD Sheet
Next up on our list is “Jazz Guitar Chord Melodies.” This book is perfect for intermediate guitar players who want to learn jazz guitar techniques. It has a wide range of chord progressions and melodies for you to practice and play.
The CD that comes with this book is amazing. It provides you with examples of the songs you are learning to help you perfect your playing. One thing is for sure: this book is perfect for those who want to learn how to play great jazz guitar!
“Jazz Guitar Chord Melodies” by Jack Grassel and Jill Jensen
This book/CD set is another great pick for beginners. It has solo performances of 12 different standards, so you’ll be able to learn a variety of songs. The book also includes detailed notes and tabs to help you learn the songs with ease.
One of the best things about this book is the level of detail it provides. Not only do you get the notes and tabs, but you also get tips on how to play the songs with feeling and emotion. With this book, you’ll be able to add a touch of sophistication to your playing.
“Alfred Jazz Chords Book” by Alfred Music
If you’re looking for a book that focuses on chords, this is the perfect pick for you. This book includes a variety of different chord progressions to help you build your chord vocabulary.
This book is great for intermediate to advanced players looking to take their playing to the next level. It covers a wide range of different chord types and progressions, so you’re sure to find something that will challenge you.
Tips for Learning Jazz Guitar
While books and CDs can be great resources, there are a few things you can do to make sure you’re getting the most out of your practice sessions. Here are some tips to help you improve your jazz guitar skills:
- Practice consistently: Jazz guitar is a skill that requires regular practice. Try to practice for at least 30 minutes a day, several days a week. The more you practice, the faster you’ll improve.
- Listen to jazz: The best way to learn jazz is to listen to it. Try to listen to a variety of different jazz artists and styles so you can get a feel for the genre.
- Find a teacher: If you’re struggling to learn on your own, consider finding a jazz guitar teacher. A teacher can give you feedback on your playing and help you improve faster.
- Experiment with different styles: Jazz is a broad genre, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles. Try playing bebop, fusion, or even Latin jazz to expand your skills.
Ideas for Practicing Jazz Guitar
Here are some ideas to help you practice your jazz guitar skills:
- Play along with backing tracks: There are many backing tracks available online that you can use to practice your playing. Playing along with others can help improve your timing and sense of rhythm.
- Improvise: Jazz is as much about improvisation as it is about playing written music. Try to improvise over different chord progressions to improve your skills.
- Learn new jazz standards: Learning new songs is a great way to improve your skills. Try to learn a new song every week to expand your repertoire.
- Practice with a metronome: A metronome can help you improve your timing and rhythm. Try to practice playing with a metronome to improve your skills.
How to Play Jazz Guitar
Now that you have some resources and tips for learning jazz guitar, let’s dive into how to play actual jazz guitar. Here are some basic steps to follow:
- Learn basic music theory: Jazz guitar requires a solid understanding of music theory. Start by learning chord progressions and scales.
- Practice chord progressions: Once you have a basic understanding of chords and scales, start practicing different chord progressions. This will help you develop muscle memory and strengthen your fingers.
- Study jazz guitar techniques: Jazz guitar requires a variety of different techniques, including fingerpicking, hybrid picking, and chord comping. Spend time studying these techniques to improve your playing.
- Play with others: Playing with other musicians is a great way to improve your skills. Join a local jazz group or attend jam sessions to practice playing with others.
- Record yourself: Recording yourself playing can help identify areas where you need to improve. Listen back to your recordings and make notes on where you can improve.
Learning how to play jazz guitar takes time and effort, but with the right resources and practice techniques, it’s possible to become a skilled player. Use these tips and resources to take your jazz guitar playing to the next level!