The Cambridge Companion to the Guitar

by Victor Anand Coelho (Editor)

Featuring thirteen essays covering different traditions, styles, and instruments, this study is written by influential players, teachers and guitar historians. Its coverage allows the guitarist to learn the analogies and differences between traditions and styles. The genres range from baroque, classical, country, blues and rock to flamenco, African and Celtic.

Genres: Music

280 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book successfully took on the task of covering the entire scope of guitar music and playing, from early music to non-western music. I only have two criticisms. First, I would have liked a little more material on the history and development of the guitar and its playing techniques. Second, while the two chapters on rock guitar make mention of the paucity of women rock guitarists, the author doesn't bother to discuss the ones that are out there nor does he mention the importance of punk, especially riot grrl, for bringing more women to the instrument. Nonetheless, all the chapters in this books are engaging and informative. I especially liked the material on African guitar styles and traditions and the chapter on the baroque guitar and the ways its use reflected social changes in the 17th century.