Welcome to Jazz Guitar!

Welcome to Jazz Guitar ONLINE: the oldest and largest jazz guitar website in the world!

What is jazz guitar? Is it specific scale patterns? Is it the propensity for improvisation? Is it the guitars jazz musicians play? It's all of them of course, and a whole lot more. It's in rhythm and in harmony. It's in style and swing.

Perhaps you want to be a jazz guitarist? We've got some great jazz guitar lessons, and the theory to help make it make sense. Starting out in jazz guitar is not simple - you'll need some basic skills - but neither is it impossible if you are ready to practice. Jazz players are typically those who have previously played rock, blues, funk or other styles of guitar, and those skills will come in handy; but there is plenty more to learn!

We also talk to highly regarded jazz guitarists, about their musical approaches, and philosophies to playing jazz. Plus we have a detailed look at some fabulous jazz guitars.

So, whether you are a seasoned jazz musician, a rock/blues guitarist that would like to expand their repertoire, or simply a jazz music fan - there is something for you here.

Follow the menu above for free guitar lessons, articles, news and reviews. Enjoy your visit!

Check out some of the most popular articles on JazzGuitar.com

Sonny Sharrock: On Improvisation
Free jazz legend Sonny Sharrock talks to Dannette Hill: on improvisation, about different types of improvisers, and the starting points for his improvisations

On Soloing
Wonderful piece; Randell Young talks about soloing, and suggests seven rules to maximise your guitar solo's impact

The Developing Jazz Guitarist: Part One
First in a series of Lessons by Gerry Garcia: Gerry Garcia's jazz guitar arrangement of a tune we all know, Happy Birthday

Introduction to the Seven String Guitar First of a three-part series on guitars with a seventh string
By Alan De Mause

Martin Taylor interview
Guitarist Martin Taylor talks to Afdhel Aziz on his career, starting out and the influence of Indian music on his playing

A Short Guide to Group Improvisation
Jim Slansky explains jazz improvisation within a group; how it expands from, and contracts back to the main theme

CD Reviews

CDs for review should be submitted by post - for more information please get in contact

This site was originally created by respected Florida jazz guitarist and music educator, Bob Patterson.