Detail 01
Book 1 of a graded series
Ends partway through the fundamentals. Books 2 and 3 continue the sequence and are sold separately.
Product detailSKU #1274034474124
Hal LeonardGuitar Method, Book 1 Book
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
The standard first-year guitar method book. For absolute beginners who want a structured path from open strings to chords and simple melodies.
Strong match
Who this is for
- First-time guitarists starting from zero with no teacher
- Students whose instructor already assigns the Hal Leonard method
- Adults returning to guitar who want fundamentals rebuilt in order
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Players who already know open chords and basic strumming
- Anyone wanting to learn specific songs by a specific band
- Lead-focused players after scales, soloing, or speed work
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Method book, not a songbook
Builds skills in order — notes, then rhythm, then chords — rather than dropping you into full arrangements.
Detail 03
Teaches standard notation alongside playing
You come out able to read music, not just tab. Slower start, but it transfers to any instrument.
Detail 04
Works for acoustic or electric
Nothing in the material depends on pickups or amps, so either guitar you already own will do.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Print book only — no CD, audio download, or DVD included here
- 02You'll need a tuner; the book won't tune the guitar for you
- 03Book 1 alone won't get you through full songs
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Is this for acoustic or electric guitar?
Both. The fundamentals — fretting, picking, reading, open chords — are identical, so use whichever guitar you have.
02Does it include a CD or audio?
No audio is included with this book. It's the print method book on its own.
03Can I teach myself with just this?
Yes, many people do. It's sequenced for self-study. A teacher mainly helps catch bad hand habits early.
04How long does Book 1 take?
Depends on practice time. It covers first-position notes and basic chords, then hands off to Book 2 for the rest.
