The Best Books for Learning Jazz Guitar

Even if you’ve been playing guitar for a while, diving into jazz can feel intimidating! Its improvisational nature sets it apart, and the learning process can be quite different from traditional guitar methods. This article highlights some of the best books to help you take the plunge and start learning jazz guitar!

The Advancing Guitarist

The Advancing Guitarist is a conceptual masterpiece. While many books focus on specific riffs and chord shapes, they often skip over the deeper explanations of how to find notes and create music on the guitar. Mick Goodrick breaks down the fundamentals of the fretboard in a simple way, offering exercises that can keep you learning for a lifetime! By understanding the logic behind the fretboard, guitarists can gain the tools they need to develop their own style and musical voice.

Complete Jazz Guitar Method

If you already have a solid foundation in guitar playing, the Complete Jazz Guitar Method by Jody Fisher can get you improvising in no time! Assuming a basic knowledge of the instrument, this book covers all aspects of jazz performance—from comping to chord theory to soloing. It’s a comprehensive guide that will deepen your understanding and help you express yourself through jazz.

A Modern Method for Guitar (Volumes 1-3)

This three-book collection compiles the guitar curriculum used at Berklee College of Music! By working through these volumes, you’re following the same method learned by greats like John Mayer. Though the material can be dense, it’s guaranteed to elevate your playing to the next level, giving you a strong foundation in modern guitar technique.

The Jazz Theory Book

Though not specifically for guitar, The Jazz Theory Book by Mark Levine offers the most comprehensive explanation of every theoretical concept essential for mastering jazz. Jazz theory can seem daunting at first, so it’s best to approach it slowly. We recommend tackling just a page or two per practice session. With time, the insights you gain will be reflected in your playing.

Jazz Guitar Omnibook: Artist Solos

The Jazz Guitar Omnibook is an excellent way to absorb the specific nuances of your favorite players. Along with this book, artists like Joe Pass, Wes Montgomery, and Jim Hall all have note-for-note transcription books available. Studying these solos can help you understand the phrasing, articulation, and unique approaches of jazz guitar legends.

Closing Notes

While instructional books are invaluable for learning, nothing compares to studying with an expert. Our school boasts some of Toronto’s finest musicians. Contact us today to start your jazz journey with a one-on-one teacher!