Top Recommended Jazz Guitar Method Books for Aspiring Players
Choosing the best jazz guitar method book can be quite challenging, as there is no single definitive guide that suits everyone. The most suitable book depends on your current skill level and your specific goals in playing jazz guitar. To develop a well-rounded technique, it's often recommended to work through multiple books.
My Favorite: Barney Kessel Method
Barney Kessel's The Barney Kessel Method is a favorite among many guitarists. This book covers a wide variety of aspects related to playing the guitar and understanding music. It also offers valuable insights into what it means to be a professional in the music industry. What I appreciate about this book is that it answers a lot of questions that other books leave unanswered. In addition to teaching technical aspects, Barney also discusses how to play what you hear and how to develop a better sense of hearing.
If you are looking to purchase a copy of The Barney Kessel Method, it is available on eBay.
Other Highly Recommended Jazz Guitar Method Books
Thanks to the vast range of topics and subtopics in jazz guitar playing, numerous books have been written to cover these various aspects. Here are some of my favorite jazz guitar method books:
1. The Barry Harris Harmonic Method for Guitar
When it comes to harmonic material, such as voice-leading and other related techniques, The Barry Harris Harmonic Method for Guitar is an excellent resource. This book is highly recommended for its comprehensive coverage of harmonic concepts. If you are looking to deepen your understanding of jazz harmonies, this book is a must-have.
2. Barry Galbraith Series
The Barry Galbraith series is quite comprehensive, offering in-depth lessons on a variety of topics. One of the standout features of this series is the comping etudes he provides over classic standards. These exercises are invaluable for any jazz guitarist, regardless of their skill level. They provide a structured approach to exploring and improving your comping skills.
3. Improvisation Techniques
For those interested in improvisation, the book Improvising Modes: A Tutor for Guitar by Barry Galbraith is particularly useful. This book delves into how some of the great players have handled highlighting specific chord tones throughout different periods in jazz history. The author presents detailed techniques and ideas that can significantly enhance your improvisational skills.
4. Harmonic Sophistication
If you want to explore the realm of harmonic sophistication, Mick Goodrick's Improvising Outside Harmony: A Handbook is an outstanding resource. Goodrick's approach to advanced harmonic structures and concepts places him among the best in the field. Another valuable resource is the collaborative effort with guitarist Tim Miller, titled Creative Comping. This book offers practical insights into comping techniques and can be very beneficial for both intermediate and advanced players.
Additional Resources
In addition to the books, I have also produced a series of video recordings that delve into the Barry Galbraith series. These videos cover the exercises and techniques in detail, offering practical advice on how to maximize their benefits. You can find these recordings on relevant video-sharing platforms.