Ever wanted to play like a guitar great? Now's your chance! From basic techniques to the most advanced chords and structures, The Guitar Book takes you through each step with clear diagrams, photographs and easy-to-follow notation. Arranged in three parts, the first covers 39 practice sessions, ranging from the more basic first notes and chords to advanced sessions on playing solos or five-fret stretches. The second part is an essential reference section covering all the chord shapes that you're going to need to know. The final part includes mini biographies of major blues, folk, gypsy jazz, rock and pop guitarists such as Eric Clapton, Robert Johnson and Kurt Cobain, followed by features on how to play in their signature styles. Whether you're a complete beginner or a more experienced musician, The Guitar Book is designed to teach you the essentials of acoustic and electric guitar technique, including notation, rhythm, chord structure, picking, chord shifts, strumming styles, barring, fretting, riffing, tuning, and time signatures. It includes troubleshooting tips to avoid common problems, such as muffled notes and an incorrect arm position. The Guitar Book contains more than 1000 step-by-step photographs and diagrams showing musical notation and chord charts. Follow each session's practice pieces and soon you will be jamming along with the guitar greats.