ISBN 9781610652032. This beginner's approach to playing fingerstyle guitar uses well-known folk songs to develop left and right-hand techniques. The tunes are first introduced with simplified chords and accompaniment provided by an easy downward strum of the thumb. Next, the thumb and three fingers pluck simultaneously to produce block chords, and finally render more complex arpeggiated patterns. While barre chords are judiciously avoided throughout, the alternating bass concept is presented with full-strength chords using all six strings where applicable. While the melodies are shown in standard notation, the lyrics and companion audio serve as rhythmic guides to the student; neither note nor tablature reading ability is required to complete this enjoyable course. Includes access to online audio.

ISBN 9781609747855.

This approach really works. It holds my student's interest. These are typical comments on the effectiveness of William Bay's Guitar Class Method. As no other instrument lends itself to so many moods and styles of music (blues, folk, rock, country, classical, flamenco, jazz, etc.), playing the guitar as a popular mode of expression and the instrument itself have become an integral part of American life. The Guitar Class Method was written with the hope it would expand the range of people of all ages who would be exposed to the guitar through a meaningful, authoritative method that is easy to follow. Online audio available for download.Volume 1 of this method for individual or group study offers an overview of the various styles of guitars and playing techniques with advice on purchasing and caring for the instrument, selecting guitar strings, and playing positions. Includes special sections devoted specifically to chord strumming, blues structure and style, fingerstyle technique, note reading, and music theory. The individual sections can be used simultaneously in any order to take the class in any direction it wants. Written in standard notation and tablature with chords presented in both diagram and photo format. Lyrics are included for many songs and a few melodies are presented as duet arrangements. Access to audio download available online.

ISBN 9781619117594.

The Mastering the Guitar Class Method Short Course has been written for use in guitar classes which last for nine weeks or less. Students will receive, in a condensed form, the same high quality, sequential material contained in the Mastering the Guitar Class Method. Although designed for a shorter course, great care has been taken to provide the students with a solid foundation in technique and the fundamentals of playing guitar. Contents include: holding position, chords, strum patterns, tuning, reading single note solos in tablature and standard notation, and ensembles all in a variety of music styles. The book also contains a section on playing the blues and writing original blues lyrics. Fifty five lesson plans are available on line at melbay.com and quizzes will also be made available. This text is ideal for the exploratory course and will provide the perfect springboard for further study.Checkout the Short Course Lesson Plans, and Teacher Supplement and Lesson Plans Free PDF. Also includes access to online audio.