The Christopher Parkening Guitar Method - Volume 1: Guitar Technique by Jack Marshall (Repost)

(Guitar Method). This premier method for the beginning classical guitarist, by one of the world's pre-eminent virtuosos and the recognized heir to the legacy of Andres Segovia, is now completely revised and updated! Guitarists will learn basic classical technique by playing over 50 beautiful classical pieces, 26 exercises and 14 duets, and through numerous photos and illustrations. The method covers: rudiments of classical technique, note reading and music theory, selection and care of guitars, strategies for effective practicing, and much more!

This does the best job that I have seen of covering everything about starting the classical guitar. Parkening doesn't spend much space on choosing a guitar, but, then, I'd imagine that anybody who buys the book already has a guitar. He does spend lots of space on holding the guitar properly, sitting properly, and positioning both hands properly (I benefited from this last, even though I've been a guitarist for thirty-five years). He goes on to cover tuning and the two basic right-hand strokes.

The music is arranged in a logical order, getting progressively more difficult through the book, including several duets for student and teacher. Every piece is appropriate for a beginner, and no piece involves anything that has not been taught.

The book ends with Mr Parkening's own views on what a musician should try to achieve. Although I do not share his Christian faith, I found his views stimulating and inspiring.

This book is so good that the only negative comment that I have is that it would be even better if spiral bound to lie open on a music stand.