Guitar Theory

CHAPTER1

Defining Guitar Theory

In This Chapter

• The relationship between guitar theory and music theory
• Exploring what guitar theory is and what it’s not
• Understanding your role in learning guitar theory
• Guitar theory can help both lead and rhythm playing
• Taking stock of what you already know

When it comes to music theory, guitarists have a bad reputation, which is both unfair and more than a little funny. For example, many guitarists will insist that they don’t need to read music. This is certainly true, but it is also true that being able to read music can only help a guitarist become a better and more rounded musician.

Likewise, many guitarists ...