Alfred's Basic Guitar Method 2 (Third Edition): Guitar Book & Online Video/Audio/Software

Book 2 builds on foundational skills with genuine musical payoff. The integration of multiple genres (blues, country, folk, jazz, rock) plus contemporary pop repertoire means students aren't just practicing exercises; they're learning songs they recognize and want to play. The inclusion of video lessons, downloadable audio, and TNT 2 software means the method adapts to your teaching setup rather than forcing you into one.

A door opening into real repertoire. After the basics of Book 1, students encounter blues progressions that sound authentically bluesy, country fingerpicking patterns that feel like actual songs, and recognizable pop melodies. The colorful layout and online resources create a modern, engaging practice environment that doesn't feel dated or overly workbook-like.

Beginning to early intermediate guitarists who are ready to expand beyond foundational chords and open-position notes. This book works for students in private lessons, group classes, or self-paced study who respond well to structured progression and want exposure to multiple musical styles.

• Use the audio tracks to establish steady tempo and pitch reference before asking students to play along; this prevents the common issue of students rushing or playing flat when learning unfamiliar passages.
• Leverage TNT 2 software's tempo-reduction feature during rehearsal on technical passages; slowing down without losing pitch integrity helps students lock in finger placement and muscle memory.
• Isolate individual parts with the software when teaching ensemble sections; students hear exactly what their line should sound like and how it fits the texture.
• Have students reference the video lessons between class meetings to reinforce technique; this shifts some review work outside of lesson time and frees you to address new material and troubleshoot problems.

Book 2 fits naturally as the spring continuation in a year-long beginner sequence, or as the core text for a second semester of group guitar classes. The stylistic variety supports curriculum that incorporates music across cultures and genres; you can program a recital that showcases jazz standards, folk songs, and contemporary rock without needing supplementary books.

• Reading notes in multiple positions beyond first and second frets
• Chord transitions including barre chords and moveable shapes
• Fingerpicking patterns in folk and classical contexts
• Blues progression recognition and 12-bar form
• Rhythm patterns across rock, country, and folk styles
• Tempo control and rhythmic accuracy using accompaniment tracks