Acoustic Masterclass Series: Ed Gerhard -- The Guitar Songbook: Guitar TAB Book & Online Audio

This book pairs meticulously transcribed arrangements with direct instruction from the artist himself. The accompanying masterclass CD transforms technical study into conversation; Gerhard doesn't just show you what to play, he explains why each phrase matters and how to voice it effectively. For serious fingerstyle players, having both the notation and the artist's own demonstration of interpretive choices is invaluable.

These pieces blend the intimacy of solo guitar with the depth of traditional material, moving from contemplative passages to moments of rhythmic vitality. The arrangements respect the source material while showcasing the extended techniques and voicings possible on a single instrument, creating a sense of both restraint and richness.

Intermediate to advanced fingerstyle guitarists looking to deepen their technical and interpretive skills through studying an accomplished player's own arrangements. This works equally well for self-directed learners and for students studying with an instructor who wants to introduce sophisticated arrangement techniques and performance practices.

• Study the CD demonstration first before diving into the notation. Hearing Gerhard's phrasing and tone production establishes the musical intent you're aiming toward.
• Pay close attention to his fingering choices in the tab. They reflect not just technical efficiency but also voice leading and tonal balance specific to each arrangement.
• Work through the key passages Gerhard isolates on the CD in isolation, then gradually integrate them into the full piece rather than learning linearly from beginning to end.
• Listen for how Gerhard uses dynamics and touch to bring out melody and bass lines simultaneously, especially in pieces with multiple voices.

Feature individual pieces in a solo guitar recital or concert program, or use one arrangement as an encore piece where its intimate character provides a satisfying conclusion. The collection also serves as a resource for study groups or masterclasses where you want to examine how a skilled arranger approaches transcription and performance of traditional material.

• Reading fingerstyle tab in coordination with standard notation
• Voice leading and simultaneous melody/bass playing on a single instrument
• Interpreting arrangement choices and understanding arranger intent
• Touch and dynamics for tonal control across multiple voices
• Applying demonstrated techniques to other fingerstyle repertoire