Zen Guitar (A Spiritual Guide to Music)

This book unexpectedly became one of my favorites, and as such the pages are already faded and worn from use- as all good books should be! This is not a book for improving guitar technique or learning new licks, but it is a book for those looking to find a "spiritual" side of guitar or simply to develop a better mentality towards their playing. It does this by using a similar approach to martial artists, and it encourages a lot of reflection about your own personality and ideas of the guitar. It also features a multitude of great quotes from guitarists of all backgrounds, from Clapton to Vai.I'd recommend this book to any guitarist who wants to find the song within their heart and play those good notes.

Most guitar books will make you a better player technically speaking. This book does something much more important: it can make you a better person, and therefore a better player... If you're open to it.Every guitarist, no, every musician, should own a copy of this and read it and re-read it until the covers fall off.

I've studied a bit of Zen Buddhism. I've also been playing guitar for thirty years, so this book caught my eye. It's a great way to bring some mindfulness to guitar playing. All too often we pick up our guitars and start playing, usually the same tired old licks and riffs, as if on autopilot. This book helps you bring mindful intention to many aspects of playing and helps to develop a more respectful, productive and spiritual relationship with your guitar and the music and sounds you make. Much of the wisdom and philosophy is transferable to most things we experience in life. And don't worry, it's not a bunch of heavy, deep new age stuff. It's all really straight forward and a really enjoyable read.

As a guitar teacher, I am always on the lookout for something to inspire my pupils and make them think for themselves. You cannot impose learning on someone, they have to find it for themselves through their journey with music - and this book succinctly gives much nourishing food for thought along the way.Each chapter begins with a quote from a well-known guitarist.It is not a 'method' book, and I would say it is not for young beginners (as they may not see the relevance of the whole approach) but I now suggest it to all my serious students. In fact, for about 90% of the material one could replace the word "guitar" with any other instrument. I've suggested that my wife (an accordionist) reads it, and have just bought a second copy to give to my son, who is a professional drummer!

Should be read by every guitarist - when they are ready!

Worth a read for any level of player

I didn't know what to expect when i purchased this book.one thing for sure, I couldn't put it down once I opened it up!I think that's the key, if you have an open mind, you may just find Zen guitar a good read and you may just learn a few things along the way.No riffs or licks here just an insight to attitudeas with everything guitar, its all about patience and practice, this book gives you a deeper meaning to the actions we take when learning the guitarI recommend it, simply because it was different and I learnt something new along the way!and i have learnt to empty my cup !

I have enjoyed this book and find that it gives me inspiration. Once read the book can be dipped into at random and will refresh one's enthusiasm. The messages in the book will apply to any musical instrument.

Useful insight into learning in general, essential for guitarists

Great purchase

A rare little find bought for one penny !A 'pre-owned book' in good condition.Thanks ! Would confidently buy again from this source.

"Paths cannot be taught, they can only be taken". So it is with Zen guitar.My first guitar, as for so many, was a 3/4 size classical, nylon strings, cheap laquered...

What a load of bollocks.

I bought this book after having read it whilst it was loaned to me by my guitar tutor. He suggested I give it a go to help me understand and appreciate a more simple and effective...

A very good read. Not about playing the guitar so much as geting into a frame of mind to play it. I loved it. Took the pressure off learning, but improved my playing nontheless.