Recommended Music Books

Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory: Complete Self-Study Guide

A comprehensive, approachable introduction to rhythm, melody, harmony and notation, with two accompanying listening CDs.

Music Theory: From Beginner to Expert

An ultimate step-by-step guide that walks through music theory effortlessly, from first principles onward.

How to Read Music in 30 Days

A structured 30-day programme for learning to read music, building fundamental theory as you go.

The AB Guide to Music Theory, Volume 1

Eric Taylor (ABRSM)

The standard reference for ABRSM theory exams, covering rhythm, tempo, pitch and musical expression.

The Essential Guide to Music Theory

Covers reading notes, rhythm notation, and major and minor keys, for beginners through to more advanced study.

Improvise For Real

A complete method for all instruments, prioritising creativity and ear training from the very start.

Sight Reading Trainer

Grades 1-8 sight reading practice, focusing on rhythm alongside pitch, not just specimen tests.

No Bull Music Theory For Guitarists

Essential guitar-specific theory explained through diagrams and plain language, ideal for guitarists specifically.

Music Theory For Young Musicians, Grade 1

A visually engaging, step-by-step approach to theory for younger students starting their grades.

The Christopher Parkening Guitar Method, Volume 1: Guitar Technique

Christopher Parkening

A comprehensive method book by a virtuoso classical guitarist, ideal for beginners.

Solo Guitar Playing

Frederick Noad

A classic method book perfect for self-study, with detailed instruction and a wide range of pieces.

The Classical Guitar Compendium

Bridget Mermikides

An excellent collection of classical hits that includes guitar tablature alongside standard notation.

Classical Guitar Technique

Aaron Shearer

Considered essential reading for classical guitarists, methodical and suitable for all levels.

The Segovia Scales

Illustrated with standard notation, tablature and fretboard diagrams, essential for serious scale study.

Classical Guitar for Dummies

Mark Phillips

A straightforward, beginner-friendly resource with a good selection of pieces to learn from.

Classical Exercises for Dummies

Mark Phillips & Jon Chappell

A companion volume of exercises to build technique and finger strength, suitable for all levels.

The Art of Classical Guitar Playing

Charles Duncan

Insightful tips and techniques to refine playing and musical expression, for intermediate and advanced players.

120 Studies for Right Hand Development

Mauro Giuliani

A must-have for right-hand technique, with progressive exercises essential for skill development.

The Guitarist's Way, Book 1

Peter Nuttall & John Whitworth

An easy, enjoyable introduction to classical guitar, ideal for young beginners.

Hal Leonard Bass Method, Complete Edition

Ed Friedland

A comprehensive guide covering everything from basics through to advanced bass technique.

Music Theory for the Bass Player

Ariane Cap

Makes music theory approachable for bass players specifically, essential for developing deeper musicianship.

Bass for Beginners

Glenn Letsch

An excellent starting resource for anyone new to playing the bass guitar.

Standing in the Shadows of Motown

Dr. Licks

Explores the history and music of the legendary Motown session bassists, a unique study resource.

The Bass Handbook

Adrian Ashton

A comprehensive guide to all things bass, from basic technique to advanced concepts.

The Bass Grimoire

Adam Kadmon

Focuses on the technical, scale-based side of bass playing in real depth.

Bass Fitness: An Exercising Handbook

Josquin des Pres

Builds technique, strength and stamina through structured, progressive exercises.

The Real Book, Bass Clef Edition

A collection of jazz standards every bass player should know, arranged in bass clef.

The Jazz Bass Book: Technique and Tradition

John Goldsby

A comprehensive guide to the technique and tradition behind jazz bass playing.

Fretboard Logic SE

Bill Edwards

Not bass-specific, but an excellent resource for understanding the fretboard's tuning, chords and scales.