Getting into Fingerstyle Guitar

Jonathan Adams

Dec 2011 · Mel Bay Publications

About this ebook

This introductory-level book provides an overview of fingerstyle techniques for the guitarist who may not be familiar with the classical/fingerstyle technique or who just wants to learn more. The first few chapters discuss some basic techniques and how to approach these techniques while developing good habits and correcting or avoiding the development of bad habits. The later sections focus on some basic repertoire from the classical and fingerstyle traditions and will implement the techniques learned in the previous chapters. Written in notation and tablature.

About the author

Guitarist Jonathan Adams combines classical sensibilities and fingerstyle flash to create a unique

experience that stretches the guitar’s diverse musical canvas. The artist’s debut CD release

entitled simply Guitarist explores repertoire ranging from Bach to The Beatles and has been met

with high acclaim. New Age Voice Magazine praised the release as a “…sensational debut…” and lauded

the artist as “…a young virtuoso with high polished technique, energetic personality and style…”

while the Charleston Post and Courier described Jonathan’s live performance as

“…entertaining…clever and touching….” The album Guitarist received airplay on radio stations

throughout the United States. Jonathan has also recorded albums of classical repertoire for

Intersound International and Pamplin Entertainment.

As a young boy, Adams’ artistic curiosity was initially sparked by his father’s study of the

acoustic guitar. Inspired by a neighbor, Jonathan embarked on his exploration of the fingerstyle

technique and was drawn to popular classics by groups such as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Simon

and Garfunkel. As the young guitarist continued to explore the music of the acoustic gui- tar, he

was soon drawn to the beauty and diversity of the classical repertoire.

In addition to his exciting recordings and busy performance schedule, Jonathan also maintains a

strong commitment to teaching and educating other young musicians. Along with teaching a select

number of students in his private studio, Jonathan has written articles and arrangements for

Fingerstyle Guitar Magazine and Mel Bay Publications. Jonathan’s arrangement of the popular Celtic

tune Lord Inchiquin was also included in Mel Bay’s Master Anthology of Fingerstyle Guitar Solos,

Volume I (MB98370M). Check out Jonathan’s web page at jonathanadams.com for free sheet music, CD’s

and more educational materials.

Jonathan also enjoys performing as a duo with his wife, Jennifer, a talented cellist. The Adams duo

is also actively involved in arranging and composing much of their repertoire which includes music

that is influenced by classical, folk and popular styles. For soundclips and more informa- tion

about The Adams Duo visit their website at theadamsduo.com.