I first encountered Guthrie Govan through his articles in the excellent magazine, Guitar Techniques. It was obvious that Guthrie was a master player, so I was excited to learn that he’d also written a book (he’s actually written several, Creative Guitar 1 is the first in a series of three).
Govan’s aim for this book is to show guitarists how to explore any aspect of guitar. That is quite a big ask. But Guthrie does not claim to have written a Bible of guitar. He simply wants to get guitarists thinking about the way they play and to open up some new avenues. I think that he achieves this aim well. Creative Guitar 1 is packed full of nuggets of wisdom, covering topics as varied as tone, timing, perfect pitch and speed.
The book is split into 3 main sections – Technique, ‘Theory Without Tears’ and ‘Scales and Chords’. The Technique section aims to get your fingers in shape for performing common guitar techniques. The mechanics of playing guitar are well covered with exercises to improve the dexterity of your fingers. Theory Without Tears aims to simplify music theory by explaining all the jargon. The ‘Scale and Chords’ section does what it says on the tin.
The book also comes with a free CD. This contains backing tracks for you to practice your new skills. Guthrie gives you some demo solos of his own (which are impressive). Then its your turn to jam along ’till you heart is content.
What Will I Learn?Guitar Books
General Stuff
General words of wisdom to help your playing. Includes topics, such as setting goals and keeping an open mind.
Technique
This section teaches all aspects of technique. Topics include injuries, warming up, guitar tone, effects, string bending, vibrato, muting etc. There’s also a bunch exercises to get your fingers in shape.
Theory Without Tears
Here Govan attempts to simplify music theory. This short chapter deals mainly with standard notation – sight reading, key signatures and rhythm.
Scales and Chords
This chapter explains the theory behind chords and scales. How chords are constructed, common chord progressions, the CAGED system, arpeggios, complex chords, modes. There are some really neat exercises on how to connect the pentatonics and make your fingers remember them.
Buy This Book If…
- You would like a book that covers theory and technical aspects of guitar in some detail.
- You are beginner or intermediate. Advanced guitarists will likely know most of what is covered here but will still pick up some useful tips.
- You want to increase your finger dexterity or want to learn the pentatonic scales by heart. This book is excellent at covering these two aspects.
- You’ve read some of Guthrie Govan’s articles and would like some tips from this great guitarist.
Don’t Buy This Book If…
- You’re an advanced guitarist and nothing in the ‘What Will I Learn’ section is new to you.
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