13 Books That Will Drastically Improve Your Guitar Playing

A guitarist surrounded by the best learn guitar books on shelves whilst he plays the best acoustic guitar for beginners

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Discover the best books for guitar players of all levels that can improve playing skills, boost motivation and help you overcome procrastination. (No 10. is a top choice for kids)

You’re in the right place if you’re looking for some must-have guitar books to read. There are so many different books out there to choose from; you don’t want to waste your money just hoping you’ve chosen the right one.

Sit back and relax, because we show you the best guitar books that guitarists and guitar lovers alike will love.

From recommended music theory books to inspirational musician biographies, all books have been carefully and meticulously selected by a pro session guitarist & guitar tutor. 

Let’s get to them.

The Best Learn Guitar Books

1. Essential Guitar Chords for Beginners: The Ultimate Chord Reference Book

Essential Guitar Chords for Beginners Book Learn Chords Electric Acoustic Best Selling Kids Adults Teens Gifts

Beginner or improver guitarist? This may just be the only chord book you’ll need. Easy-read charts show the most common chords used in music, plus there are plenty of guides like which chords to learn first. A must-have clever chord reference book. 

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2. Secrets Of Performing Confidence – For Musicians…

Secrets Of performing Confidence Self belief Tips Musicians Guitar Players

Learn how to control your nerves and feel confident playing in front of others. Not just for gigging musicians, Secrets of Performing Confidence is packed with techniques and advice that’ll help you overcome self-doubt and perform at your best.

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3. Guitar Terms for Beginners A-Z

best guitar books guitar terminology terms basics acoustic easy peasy electric beginner intermediate

Elevate your guitar game with this gem of a book which breaks down every musical term into digestible nuggets. Whether you’re strumming chords or diving into solos, this glossary is your gateway to speaking the language of guitar with confidence and flair.

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4. The Complete Guide to Playing Blues Guitar: Compilation

The Complete Guide to Playing Blues Guitar Blues Guitar Lesson Best Book For Beginners and Intermediate

You get 3 volumes in one with this great value-for-money book. ‘Rhythm Guitar’ includes 12 bar blues, ‘Melodic Phrasing’ looks at soloing, & ‘Beyond Pentatonics’ is sure to help keen noodlers become confident bonafide blues guitarists.

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5. The Music Lesson: A Spiritual Search for Growth Through Music

 

Best guitar books for guitar players learning theory The Music Lesson- A Spiritual Search for Growth Through Music

Described as a “must-read for any music enthusiast”, The Music Lesson is full of wisdom and insight that aims to challenge the way we think about music. Many say it changed how they play and listen to music forever. 

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6. The Art Of Songwriting: How To Create, Think & Act like a Songwriter

The Art of Songwriting: How to Create, Think and Live Like a Songwriter Best Song writing book for musicians how to think like a song writer

Aspiring songwriters will find this book an inspiring and motivational read. The Art Of… explores the layers of what it means to be a songwriter and coaches you to become better at your craft. With practical tips for both novice and experienced writers.

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7. How to Make Your Electric Guitar Play Great

Best guitar books for guitar players learning theory How to Make Your Electric Guitar Play Great

 

If you want a great resource that teaches you about guitar maintenance, this book has a lot of good tips, from how to do a basic set-up to best cleaning practices. Ideal for guitar players who want a bit of techy know-how.

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8. Easy Peasy Guitar Music Theory: The No1 Complete Beginner Guitar Theory Book

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Music theory doesn’t have to be complicated! No hard-to-understand mumbo jumbo – just 100% essential music theory all guitar players must know. Perfect for beginner and improver players, this book explains the ins and outs of basic theory to help you get out of a playing rut.

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9. Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day

Think Like A Monk Best Books For Guitar Players_Must Read Books Musicians_Positive Quotes Music_Jay Shetty

If you want to discover how to focus your mind, shed anxieties, and boost self-belief so you can properly knuckle down to learning guitar to the best of your ability, I highly recommend you read Jay’s amazing book. It’s a life-changer this one.

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10. Guitar Basics for Kids

Kids guitar book "Guitar Basics for Kids"

Ditch The Boring, Dial Up The Fun! The absolute best beginner guitar book for kids and beginners that makes learning to play songs on the guitar an awesome adventure! Packed with fun, easy guitar lessons and songs children will love, with plenty of laughs along the way.

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11. Troy Nelson Guitar Aerobics

Best Guitar Books Guitar Aerobatics Lead guitar theory books

Aimed at intermediate and eager novice guitar players, this is a great book to get you out of your playing rut. With exercises covering lead guitar techniques such as string skipping, sweeping and bends. Guitar Aerobatics comes with audio tracks and drum patterns.

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12. The Beatles Complete Song Book (Chords & Lyrics)


Best guitar books for guitar playersThe Beatles Complete Chord Songbook (Lyrics and Chords)

If you want a chord book for parties that’ll be a hit with the crowd, you can’t go wrong with The Beatles Complete Song Book. It features some of the most popular Beatles songs you could imagine. Add some new songs to your repertoire, and let rip.

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13. The Spirit of Kaizen: Creating Lasting Excellence One Small Step at a Time

best book for guitar players musicians to inspire The Spirit of Kaizen- Creating Lasting Excellence One Small Step at a Time

This is a great, thought-provoking book full of Eastern management strategies and lifestyle tips that when applied correctly, can help you make the most of every guitar practice session.

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