Alfred's Basic Rock Guitar Method 1: Guitar Book, DVD & Online Video/Audio/Software

You're building something real from lesson one. Instead of abstract exercises, you're learning shapes that immediately unlock the riffs and licks you hear in the music you want to play. The progression feels purposeful rather than arbitrary because each new technique directly serves your ability to sound like a rock guitarist.

Beginning guitarists (typically ages 11 and up) who are drawn to rock music and need an approach that puts playing actual riffs within reach before months of foundational work. This works equally well for self-taught students and those in group or private lessons.

• Use the TNT 2 software to slow down audio tracks to 75 percent tempo while learning new riffs; gradually increase speed as muscle memory develops rather than forcing full-speed accuracy from the start.
• Watch the DVD lessons before tackling new fingering patterns in the book so your hands understand the shape before the page shows it.
• Loop individual sections using the online software to drill rhythm patterns until they sit solidly in your fingers, then move forward rather than grinding on an entire piece at once.

Use this as the core method for a beginning rock guitar ensemble or small group instruction. Its pacing supports weekly lessons alongside ensemble rehearsals without overwhelming students, and the rock focus naturally aligns with repertoire selections like simplified versions of recognizable songs.

• Playing power chords and rock-style rhythms on the lower strings
• Reading tablature and standard notation simultaneously
• Muting techniques and percussive playing
• Tempo awareness and rhythm lock using audio accompaniment
• Finger independence and fret-hand endurance
• Self-directed learning using practice software (slowing tracks, isolating parts)