Continuing Your Guitar Journey Beyond Alfred’s Basic Method Books: Recommendations for Self-Study Learners
Alfred’s Basic Guitar Method books have undoubtedly been a valuable resource for many guitar beginners. However, once you have completed these books, where do you go from there? Whether you are looking to deepen your understanding of a specific genre or take your playing to the next level, there are plenty of resources available for continuing your self-paced learning journey.
Exploring Specific Repertoire
One of the best ways to continue learning is to dive into specific repertoire that aligns with your interests. Whether you prefer the rich harmonies of classical guitar or the rhythmic complexity of jazz, exploring arrangements of your favorite pieces can be both rewarding and challenging. By choosing repertoire that resonates with your taste, you can develop a deeper appreciation of the music and the techniques required to play it.
Classical Guitar
If you find yourself drawn to the classical tradition, consider expanding your knowledge with books such as those from the Boye’s Easy Guitar Studies series or the Guitar Technique Primers by Fretboard Workshop. These books provide structured exercises and pieces that build your technical skills and musicality.
Jazz Guitar
For those who prefer the soulful sound of jazz, the Robbie Bach’s Modern Guitar Tools series offers a wealth of transcriptions and exercises to help you develop your jazz playing skills. Another excellent resource is the Joe Cocarticle’s Jazz Guitar Techniques Phrasing book, which focuses on the art of jazz phrasing and improvisation.
Transcribing Musical Material
Another effective way to continue your guitar learning is by attempting to transcribe musical material. This not only improves your technical skills but also sharpens your musical ears. Websites like Ultimate Guitar and Transcribe! offer transcriptions and tutorials that can be a great starting point. Additionally, using software like Transcribe! or Transcribe!;Tools like Melodyne and Oto can assist you in analyzing and internalizing complex pieces.
Transcribing Benefits
Transcribing helps you in several ways:
Improves your technique by forcing you to translate what you hear into finger movements. Enhances your musical understanding by providing insight into the structure and development of a piece. Develops your listening skills, making it easier to identify and replicate musical elements. Promotes creativity by encouraging you to interpret and personalize the music.Additional Resources
In addition to specific repertoire and transcribing, there are numerous other resources you can explore to continue your guitar journey. Online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and YouTube offer countless lessons and tutorials. Community forums like Ultimate Guitar and Guitar Sessions provide a platform for interaction with other musicians and the opportunity to exchange tips and techniques.
Conclusion
Continuing your guitar journey beyond Alfred’s Basic Method books is a rewarding experience that can significantly enhance your skills and musical understanding. By exploring specific repertoire, transcribing, and seeking out additional resources, you can deepen your appreciation of the craft and take your playing to new heights. Whether you are a classical enthusiast, a jazz aficionado, or somewhere in between, there is a wealth of material available to keep you inspired and engaged.