Books for inmates
Whether you are incarcerated, or if someone you care about is incarcerated, it is a tough situation for everyone mentally and physically.
Fortunately, there are ways you can help counter the detrimental effects of stress and isolation. You can help an inmate cope by offering something intriguing, challenging, and positive to do with their creativity.
Playing guitar, learning guitar, and improving your skills as a guitarist has been shown in clinical studies to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, increase immune cells which fight off disease, and improve memory and mental acuity. It puts focus into a positive direction and helps those incarcerated to actually have some joy and feeling of achievement.
This is a good thing. I want to encourage you to get yourself, or someone you care about, started on this guitar program. Inmate correspondence with books for inmates.
Here are 3 affordable, and most popular, ways to get started with guitar study. One study is designed for a beginning guitar player, one study is for an intermediate guitar player, and one study is for an advanced guitar player.
If you have questions, please contact me. Jim@JSIGuitar.com
3 Most Popular Studies:
Stage 1 of The Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course
Beginning Guitar 19.95 + shipping
Theory Book 1 for Guitar Players (with pre-paid grading)
Intermediate Guitar 20.00 + shipping
Modal Book 1 part 1 (with pre-paid grading)
Advanced Guitar 30.00 + shipping
More Great Guitar Studies and Books for Inmates:
SUPPLEMENTARY LESSONS
Supplementary Lessons focus on songs, styles, techniques, scales, rhythms, solo composition, or other topics you have expressed interest in. These lessons are meant to be studied in conjunction with the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course or the Music Theory Course for Guitar Players. Even so, some students choose to study exclusively through Supplementary Lessons.
A file is kept on each student. Feedback is important since supplementary suggestions and course planning is based on information in your file.
If you do not see a study in the Supplementary Lesson Glossary list, contact the Jim Sutton Institute of Guitar with your specific study topic request. Every effort will be made to assure your progress toward your goal.
AD LIB SOLO STUDY FOR GUITAR STUDY 1 KEY OF E MINOR
The purpose of this study is to help guitarists learn how to better improvise within a key center. There are opportunities throughout the instruction for the student to practice the ad lib solo concepts with the recording. The goal is to be able to start a phrase from any position on the guitar neck and be able to move to any other position on the guitar neck.
How to do this is clearly explained and is presented so that one solo ad lib concept is the stepping block to the next.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 12 pages and CD. ($17.50)
ADVANCED TIMING GROUPED PHRASING
This study looks at situations where 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 notes are all being sounded within 1 beat. The examples are written in tablature and demonstrated on audio. This is an advanced study and requires a certain amount of skill to execute the phrases.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 4 pages with CD. ($17.50)
ADVANCED TIMING SUPPLEMENTAL STUDY 1 FOR GUITAR
The Advanced Timing Study For Guitar contains written and audio exercises of various combinations of note values. The phrases are comparable to those found within Theory Book 4. These are single note combinations with the emphasis on counting. Time signatures from 2/4 to 15/8 are demonstrated and explained.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 8 pages with CD. ($12.00)
ADVANCED TIMING SUPPLEMENTAL STUDY 2 FOR GUITAR. ODD METER.
The purpose of this study is to get a feel for different time signatures. It is in a “play along with” format. Short repetitive phrases in odd meter are demonstrated for the student to play with the recording.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 4 pages with CD. ($12.00)
ARPEGGIO WITHIN A CHORD PROGRESSION
This is a brief study which demonstrates a method of incorporating arpeggios within a chord progression. This study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 5-6. It includes 5 pages and no recording. ($7.00)
BLUES GUITAR CALL (ANSWER) AND RESPONSE, STYLES, AND PLAYING AGAINST CHANGES
This study briefly views 3 topics. Those topics are answer and response phrases, styles of blues musicians, and playing against changes. The study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 5. It includes 7 pages with CD. ($15.00)
BLUES GUITAR GROOVES STUDY 1
The Jim Sutton Blues Guitar Grooves Study Series is an examination of common blues grooves in a 12 bar format. Each groove is charted in several keys. As the study series progresses, how to write intros and fills is explained. The Blues Guitar Grooves Study Series is a prep course for the Blues Lead Guitar Series.
Blues Guitar Grooves Study 1 looks at 9 single note grooves applied to several keys. Each groove is played in several keys so that the variation of each groove pattern, as it begins from different starting points, can be fully appreciated. The level of difficulty of Blues Guitar Grooves Study 1 is consistent with that of Stage 1 of the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course. This is an introductory level How To Play Blues Guitar Study. The study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. It includes 16 pages and CD. ($17.50)
BLUES GUITAR GROOVES STUDY 2
The 12 bar blues progression is probably the most played and easily recognizable. The pattern is called the “12 bar blues progression” because it takes up 12 bars. The progression, although called a “blues” progression. is well established in many styles of music…(Country, rock, jazz, blues, etc..) It is sometimes called a “I, IV, V” progression.
Blues Guitar Grooves Study 2 looks at 20 grooves applied to several keys. Each groove is played in several keys so that the variation of each groove pattern, as it begins from different starting points, can be fully appreciated. The level of difficulty of Blues Guitar Grooves Study 2 is consistent with that of Stage 2 of the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course. This is an introductory level study on How To Play Blues Guitar Grooves. The study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 2-3. It includes 23 pages and CD. ($17.50)
BLUES GUITAR GROOVES STUDY 3
Blues Guitar Grooves Study 3 looks at 19 classic blues guitar grooves. Each groove is illustrated and demonstrated in 2 keys. Understanding the fundamentals and variation of a 12 bar blues pattern is essential to good guitar playing in many different styles. This is a beg-int level study on How to Play Blues Guitar Grooves.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 3-4. It includes 28 pages and CD. ($17.50)
BLUES GUITAR GROOVES STUDY 4
Blues Guitar Grooves Study 4 looks at 8 grooves. Each groove is charted in at least 2 keys so that the variation of each pattern, as it begins from different starting points, can be fully appreciated. The latter part of the study is devoted to the study of fills. The level of difficulty of Blues Guitar Grooves Study 4 is consistent with that of Stage 6 level of the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course. This is an intermediate level study on How To Play Blues Guitar Grooves. The study is written in tablature and rhythm symbolism.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 5-6. It includes 28 pages and CD. ($17.50)
BLUES LEAD GUITAR STUDY 1
The focus of Blues Lead Guitar Study 1 is on the minor pentatonic scale and How To Play Blues Lead Guitar. This is the work horse of guitar scales. This is the one which is most heard and most widely used. The study discusses soloing concepts and encourages the student to be creative with what they learn. There are several pages of technique and dexterity exercises applied to the scale. That is followed by the discussion of the theoretical composition of the scale. That is followed by examples of classic blues riffs, an explanation of how to remember them, and how to use them in a blues progression.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 5-6. It includes 11 pages and CD. ($17.50)
BLUES LEAD GUITAR STUDY 2
Blues Lead Guitar Study 2 continues to explore the A- pentatonic scale and concepts of How To Play Blues Lead Guitar. The minor pentatonic which has its main root, (A note), on the 5th string, is the focus of this study. The study is laid out in the same format as Blues Lead Guitar Study 1. The study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 12 pages and CD. ($17.50)
BLUES LEAD GUITAR STUDY 3
Blues Lead Guitar Study 3 continues to explore the minor pentatonic scale as well as scale variations.
A new set of riffs assigned to intervals of an altered blues scale. Runs are explored which connect different positions of the neck. All the riffs and runs are set forth as examples. After learning the examples, the student is encouraged to personalize the ideas to their own style. This is a more advanced skill level in the study of How To Play Blues Lead Guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 12 pages and CD. ($17.50)
BLUES LEAD GUITAR STUDY 4
Blues Lead Guitar Study 4 explores an altered blues scale. Example riffs are demonstrated from each interval of the scale. The goal is for the student to develop their own style by using the learning method as it is explained in the study. There are warm up exercises and discussion on how to approach an ad lib solo. This study in How to Play Blues Lead Guitar is at an advanced skill level.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6++. It includes 17 pages and CD. ($17.50)
BUILDING BETTER BARRE CHORDS
The focus of this study is on building strength and accuracy in the construction of barre chords.Dexterity exercises, discussion, and song are used to achieve desired result of how to build a barre chord. The study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 3. It includes 12 pages and CD. ($15.00)
CAGE SYSTEM VISUALIZING THE GUITAR NECK STUDY 1
How to visualize the guitar neck, and move up and down the guitar neck, are two goals of Cage System Visualizing The Guitar Neck Study 1. Building strength and speed are two others. The cage system is a way to visualize the fret board.
By interlocking smaller scale patterns, the cage system is a way to see the entire fretboard as one large scale. The cage system and the 3 note/string method are the two most popular methods to achieve this.
This study will focus on the G major scale or the G Ionian mode.This study is not isolated and ideas will connect with other solo studies such as Country Lead Guitar Study, Blues Lead Guitar Study, Rock Lead Guitar Study, Modal Studies, etc..
This is an advanced study. It should take 30-60 minutes to complete your practice after you’ve become familiar with the exercises.
This study is recommended as a prerequisite to the Modal and Solo Composition Course for Guitar Players.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 5-6. It includes 17 pages and CD. ($17.50)
CAGE SYSTEM VISUALIZING THE GUITAR NECK STUDY 2 ARPEGGIOS
This is a follow up study to Cage System Visualizing the Guitar Neck Study 1. The arpeggios are presented in a logical sequence to aid in the visualization and connection of one to the next. This study will build skills and understanding of how to put this technique to use.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level advanced. It includes 19 pages and CD. ($17.50)
CAGE SYSTEM VISUALIZING THE GUITAR NECK STUDY 3
This is a follow up study to Cage System Visualizing the Guitar Neck Study 1 and 2. Triad patterns are drilled, connected, and maximized. A tremendous study for building and explaining how to play arpeggios, how to travel up and down the guitar neck, and building dexterity skills. This study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 14 pages and CD. ($17.50)
CHORD IMPROVISATION FOR GUITAR BASED ON MINOR PENTATONIC
5 tone scale worked and harmonized in a unique fashion. Jazz/progressive blues based. Ideas are drawn from a harmonized scale and improvisation opportunity is presented. The study is written in tablature. How to use chord improvisation in a minor key.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 7 pages; CD. ($17.50)
CHORD IMPROVISATION FOR GUITAR BASED ON MAJOR SCALE
A systematic approach to understanding chord improvisation. Ideas are developed and an opportunity is presented to improvise over a jam track. The study is jazz based. It is written in tablature. How to use chord improvisation in a major key.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 5 pages; CD. ($17.50)
COUNTRY GUITAR INTROS, WALKS, FILLS, AND TAGS
This study examines classic intros, walks between chords in a I IV V pattern, country fills based around an E shaped barre chord, and some classic tags, or endings. This is an introduction into how to play country guitar.
This is a pre-study to the Jim Sutton Country Lead Guitar Series.
Most of this study is based around a D major chord. This is done on purpose so that there is continuity between this study and other studies offered by the Jim Sutton Institute of Guitar. (Country Lead Guitar Series, Blues Lead Guitar Series, Modal Studies, etc..) In other words, one study can overlay another and create a bigger picture.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 5-6. It includes 12 pages and CD. ($17.50)
COUNTRY LEAD GUITAR STUDY 1
This is the first in a series of Country Lead Guitar Studies. The series explores the concept of soloing from chord shapes. Country Lead Guitar Study 1 centers around the E shaped barre chord at the 10th fret. The intervals of the chord are discussed and then a riff is assigned to each interval. The riffs in this study are examples. The student is encouraged to develop each riff or use one of their own. In other words, put their own signature on each riff. This a how to play country lead guitar study and a guide to developing your style.
All of the various lead studies from the Jim Sutton Institute of Guitar are interrelated. One study is useful to the next in helping create a cohesive picture.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6. It includes 13 pages and CD. ($17.50)
COUNTRY LEAD GUITAR STUDY 2
This is the second in the Country Lead Guitar Series.
The focus of Country Lead Guitar Study 2 is on the A shaped barre chord played at the 5th fret. The intervals of the chord are discussed and a riff is assigned to each. The student is encouraged to expound upon this concept by developing riff ideas of their own. This is a study in how to play country lead guitar.
Applicable scale patterns are discussed. A country boogie solo is charted and the solo techniques are analyzed. There is continuity between this study and the other studies offered by the Jim Sutton Institute of Guitar. (Blues Lead Guitar Series, Modal Playing and Solo Composition Course for Guitar Players, Cage System Visualizing the Guitar Neck Series, etc..)
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6. It includes 12 pages and CD. ($17.50)
COUNTRY LEAD GUITAR STUDY 3
Country Lead Guitar Study 3 will focus on the “G” shaped barre chord played at the 7th fret. Scales and riffs are demonstrated and explained. Fills and solo composition are explored. This is a study in how to play country lead guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 16 pages and CD. ($17.50)
COUNTRY LEAD GUITAR STUDY 4
The focus of Country Lead Guitar Study 4 is on the “E” shaped barre chord played at the 10th fret. The intervals of the chord are discussed and a riff is assigned to each.
Solo concepts are discussed. The student is given the opportunity to try several ad lib approaches to a country ballad and a country two step. This is a study in how to play country lead guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 15 pages and CD. ($17.50)
COUNTRY SHUFFLE
This study discusses how to count a shuffle and how to get a shuffle feel.
Song form is discussed. Song arrangement is explained as it applies to a guitar accompaniment to a vocal, a guitar instrumental, and a guitar rhythm with bass line.
The charts are in tablature and rhythm symbolism.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 4-5. It includes literature and CD. ($17.50)
DIMINISHED SCALE STUDY FOR GUITAR
The Diminished Scale Study thoroughly examines the structure and use of diminished scales as they are applied to the guitar. The scales are broken down to the interval relationships and examined in the sense of how that information could be used in a guitar solo or composition. The scales are diagramed, discussed, and explored in various harmonic environments. The study also includes diminished dexterity exercises and riffs which can be used to develop technical skills. The study explains how to use the diminished scale.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 15 pages and CD. ($17.50)
EAR TRAINING FOR GUITAR PLAYERS LESSON 1
Ear training is another technical skill. Being able to distinguish between higher and lower pitches, interval distances, chord qualities, and chord progressions is a skill that can be trained and honed. The training is no different than playing dexterity exercises over and over again until your fingers become very agile and controlled.
Ear Training Lesson 1 is straight forward. A pitch is sounded and is followed by a short pause. During the pause you locate the pitch on your guitar. Then two notes are sounded followed by a pause; then three notes are sounded.
Some hints are given as to what to look for and what to listen for when learning chord progressions from recorded music.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 3-4. It includes literature and CD. ($15.00)
EAR TRAINING FOR GUITAR PLAYERS LESSON 2
Ear Training Lesson 2 begins with a review of matching given pitches. The study moves on to recognizing interval distances…(Octaves, 7ths, 6ths, etc.). There are exercises and hints which help solidify that skill. There is a quiz which is to be returned to the Jim Sutton Institute of Guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 3-4. It includes literature and CD. ($17.50)
EAR TRAINING FOR GUITAR PLAYERS LESSON 3
Ear Training Lesson 3 begins with an interval review.The study moves on to hearing and identifying the quality of various chords. Quality, in this case, meaning major, minor, augmented, diminished, dominant 7, major 7, etc.. The study concludes with using your ear to transcribe familiar melodies.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 19 pages and CD. ($17.50)
EAR TRAINING FOR GUITAR PLAYERS LESSON 4
Ear Training Lesson 4 begins with a review of drills and exercises.The focus of the study is on cadence and distinguishing key centers. Theoretical concepts concerning progression is discussed. For the student’s benefit, it is recommended that they have begun or completed the Jim Sutton Music Theory Course for Guitar Players.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6++. It includes 24 pages and CD . ($17.50)
EAR TRAINING FOR GUITAR PLAYERS LESSON 5
Ear Training Lesson 5 will focus on transcribing from recorded music. This will require an application of all of the knowledge accumulated from the previous 4 Ear Training studies.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6++. It includes 20 pages and CD. ($17.50)
EXPLORING DADGAD
Logic is applied to this altered tuning. How scales are built, etc. In other words how to use the Dadgad tuning effectively. This study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 11 pages; CD . ($17.50)
FINGERSTYLE BLUES GUITAR TURNAROUNDS AND GROOVE STUDY 1
This is an introduction to fingerstyle turnarounds. Each turnaround is moved through several keys and could be applied to many blues categories such as Delta blues, fingerstyle blues, Chicago blues, etc. The study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 8 pages; CD . ($17.50)
FINGERSTYLE GUITAR STUDY 1
The Jim Sutton Fingerstyle Guitar Series examines right hand picking and strumming technique, strength and dexterity exercises, and chord embellishment. The Fingerstyle Guitar Series will progressively take the mystery and difficulty out of fingerstyle playing.
Fingerstyle Guitar Study 1 begins with dexterity exercises. The study then looks at a number of rhythm patterns applied to different chords and chord progressions. Most of the chords are played in the open position. The level of difficulty of Fingerstyle Guitar Study 1 is consistent with that of Stage 1 of the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course. This is an introductory level. The study is written in tablature. This study explains how to play fingerstyle guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. It includes 17 pages and CD. ($17.50)
FINGERSTYLE GUITAR STUDY 2
Fingerstyle Guitar Study 2 begins with right hand dexterity exercises. Rhythm patterns and chord progressions are then applied to those exercises. The fingerstyle technique is then examined in song form and arrangement. The study is written in tablature. This study explains how to play fingerstyle guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 4-5. It includes 9 pages and CD. ($17.50)
FINGERSTYLE GUITAR STUDY 3
Fingerstyle Guitar Study 3 begins with dexterity exercises. The study follows the same format as Fingerstyle Guitar Study 2. The study is written in tablature. This study explains how to play fingerstyle guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 2-3. It includes 13 pages and CD. ($17.50)
FINGERSTYLE GUITAR STUDY 4
Fingerstyle Guitar Study 4 begins with dexterity exercises. The study follows the same format as previous Fingerstyle Guitar Studies. The study is written in tablature. This study explains how to play fingerstyle guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 3. It includes 13 pages and CD. ($17.50)
FINGERSTYLE GUITAR STUDY 5
Fingerstyle Guitar Study 5 begins with dexterity exercises. The study follows the same format as previous Fingerstyle Guitar Studies. The majority of the study is written in tablature and rhythm symbolism. The song study is written in both tablature and notation. This study explains how to play fingerstyle guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 4. It includes 19 pages and CD. ($17.50)
THE GUITAR CAPO
This study explains what a capo is, how a capo is used, and when a capo is used. The purpose behind using a capo is explained. Changing keys with a capo is explained and demonstrated.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 5. It includes 7 pages and CD. ($15.00)
GUITAR FROM HYMNAL TO WORKABLE COMPOSITION
Guitar From Hymnal to Workable Composition, takes Silent Night from a standard Christian Hymnal. Through a process of arrangement, the chart is moved into a more guitar friendly composition. A final score is moved into an open tuning. The study is written in notation and tablature.
This is a a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 15 pages and CD. ($17.50)
GUITAR NOTATION COMPARED TO PIANO NOTATION
This is a short explanation of how guitar players interpret, or read, a chart different than piano players. In other words, how do guitar players read a piano chart.
This is a 3 page flier. ($2.00)
HARMONIC PROGRESSION IN ARRANGING
Harmonic Progression in Arranging looks at techniques to rewrite a score using concepts such as chord substitution, chord inversions, movement within the bass line, counter melodies, contrary motion and harmonic progression. Some knowledge of music theory is necessary.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 6 pages and CD. ($17.50)
HARMONIC PROGRESSION IN COMPOSITION
Harmonic Progression in Composition looks at progressions in a variety of styles. This is a theoretical study that looks at the commonalities found within each.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. level 6+. It includes 7 pages and CD. ($17.50)
HARMONIC PROGRESSION IN SOLO COMPOSITION FOR GUITAR
An examination of developing a solo based the sequence of chords found within a composition.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 6 pages an CD. ($17.50)
HARMONICS STUDY 1
Harmonics Study 1 is a study of natural harmonics.
The study includes harmonic maps, building chords with harmonics, and riffs using natural harmonics.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 15 pages and CD. ($17.50)
HEAVY METAL SOLO COMPOSITION STYLE COMPARISON STUDY 1
Heavy Metal Solo Compositions Style Comparison Study 1 looks at three different approaches to composing a solo in the style of heavy metal. A Modal approach, a Minor Pentatonic approach, and a Chordal approach. The three solos are interchangeable over each rhythmic groove demonstrated.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 10 pages and CD. ($17.50)
HOW TO USE SCALES FOR GUITAR
Gives an overview of what to look for when comparing scales to chords. How to select which scale to use in which situation.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 6 pages and CD. ($17.50)
JAM WITH JIM BLUES GUITAR AD LIB SOLO STUDY 1
Jam With Jim Blues Guitar Ad Lib Solo Study 1 is a study in blues guitar improvisation. This study is an addendum to the Blues Lead Guitar Study 1. You will need to have both studies in front of you since we will be referring back and forth between the two.
The study demonstrates and explains how to approach an ad lib solo using a loose outline. This versatile outline will keep your solo moving and the ideas flowing. This is a very informative study on how to put your chops to work for you.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6-6+. It includes 10 pages and CD. ($17.50)
JAM WITH JIM BLUES GUITAR AD LIB SOLO STUDY 2
Jam With Jim Blues Guitar Ad Lib Solo Study 2 is an addendum to the Blues Lead Guitar Study 1. The focus of this study is on the starting point of each blues phrase. The purpose of this is to open up the neck and break out of just playing within the box patterns.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6-6+. It includes 17 pages and CD. ($17.50)
JAZZ GUITAR V7 to I STUDY
This is a short study giving 22 single note run examples of a V7 chord resolving to a I chord of some kind. (major/minor). This study explains what is a V7 to I progression.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. It includes 3 pages and CD. ($15.00)
JAZZ GUITAR SOLO COMPOSITION STUDY 1
Jazz Guitar Solo Composition Study 1 is an advanced study which incorporates ideas from many music fields and styles. This is the first in a series of studies which examine solo composition and improvisation against jazz chord progressions. The student should have knowledge of the cage system, (knowing your way around the neck of the guitar,) key centers, and chord theory. Dexterity skills are important as well since there are no restrictions put on the level of difficulty.
In Jazz Guitar Solo Composition Study 1, the solo is approached and explained from 3 different composition and improvisation methods. The study includes exercises which allow the student to develop their own solos using these methods.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level advanced. It includes 15 pages and CD. ($17.50)
JAZZ GUITAR SOLO COMPOSITION STUDY 2
This is the 2nd in a series of solo composition and ad lib studies. The progression examined is dominant 7 chords moving in a cycle of 5ths.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level advanced. It includes 16 pages and CD. ($17.50)
JAZZ GUITAR SOLO COMPOSITION STUDY 3
This is the 3rd in a series of studies which examine various methods of approaching jazz guitar solo composition. The chord progression is analyzed from a chord scale approach and from a modal approach. Those ideas are then reworked while incorporating chromatics. Page 14 is an exercise for the student to put to use the composition techniques. There is an opportunity for students to play their compositions along with music on the recording.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level advanced. It includes 15 pages and CD. ($17.50)
JAZZ RHYTHM GUITAR STUDY 1
Rhythm, and timing itself, is not necessarily the defining factor as to whether or not a piece of music is any specific style of music. For example, playing a straight quarter note strum against a swing beat would be no different than playing a straight quarter note strum against a country common time beat. Either way, you would be strumming 4 chords per measure. The style of music is more accurately defined by instrumentation, song form, and harmonic progressions. In other words, what kind of chords are being played and in what sequence the chords are being played. A rhythm guitarist strumming a repetitive rhythmic pattern, whatever that pattern may be, is common in all styles of music.
To sum up the above, a study of jazz rhythm is really a study of jazz chord structures and jazz guitar chord progressions. The rhythm itself being universal.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6-6+. It includes 11 pages and CD. ($17.50)
JAZZ STYLE GUITAR STUDY 1
The Jazz Style Guitar Study Series explores jazz rhythms, progression, and concepts. Rhythm exercises, scales, dexterity exercises, chord development, and song are independently and conjunctively used to create a clear picture of this style.
The purpose of this study series is to introduce, explain, demonstrate, and guide the student through this genre of music to whatever level or tangent they care to pursue.
This study is written in tablature and notation. Jazz Style Guitar Study 1 is at level 1. This level is comparable to Stage 1 of the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course. Level 1 is a beginner level. Each study of the Jazz Style Guitar Series is a supplementary lesson. This is an introductory study in how to play jazz guitar. Supplementary lessons are designed to be studied in conjunction with the course studies.
Jazz Style Guitar Study 1 has several song studies. Each song is preceded by a warm up page. A warm up page will usually have a dexterity exercise, a scale study, a scale riff, a chord study, a technique study, and a notation study. Some of the drills and exercises are designed to be compatible with you current level of study. Your instructor will guide you through the warm up pages and all of the music via the recording which is enclosed with this study.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 1. It includes 38 pages and CD. ($18.95)
JAZZ STYLE GUITAR STUDY 2
Jazz Style Guitar Study 2 has several song studies. Each song is preceded by a warm up page. A warm up page will usually have a dexterity exercise, a scale study, a scale riff, a chord study, a technique study, and a notation study. Some of the drills and exercises are designed to be compatible with you current level of study. Your instructor will guide you through the warm up pages and all of the music via the recording which is enclosed with this study.
This study is written in tablature and notation. Jazz Style Guitar Study 2 is at level 2. This level is comparable to Stage 2 of the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course. Each study of the Jazz Style Guitar Series is a supplementary lesson. This is an introductory study in how to play jazz guitar. Supplementary lessons are designed to be studies in conjunction with course studies.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 2. It includes 46 pages and CD . ($18.95)
JAZZ STYLE GUITAR STUDY 3
This is the third in a series of guitar studies where the focus is on a jazz style. The swing beat, chromatic sequence, soloing chord to chord, are often associated with jazz, and in small combos there is a basic form of playing a head and soloing. This study series will touch on all of these topics.
This study is written in tablature and notation. Jazz Style Guitar Study 3 is at level 3. This level is comparable to Stage 3 of the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course. This is a beginning to intermediate level study in how to play jazz guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 3. It includes 38 pages and CD. ($18.95)
LATIN RHYTHMS 1
The Latin Rhythms Guitar Study is an advanced study. It examines Latin rhythms which require the student to read and understand syncopated time. The study is written in tablature and rhythm symbols.
Each rhythm is illustrated with the count and pick direction indicated. A CD allows the student to hear each rhythm. This is a study in how to play latin rhythms.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6+. It includes 25 pages and CD. ($17.50)
LATIN RHYTHMS 2
The Latin Rhythms 2 is an advanced study. This is a continuation, and follow up to Latin Rhythms 1.
This is a study in how to play latin rhythms.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 13 pages and CD. ($17.50)
LEAD GUITAR STUDY BLUES SOLO 1
Lead Guitar Blues Solo 1 is the first in a series of 5 solo studies. Each 12 bar solo is broken down, explained, and demonstrated.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6-6+. It includes 2 pages and CD. ($15.00)
LEAD GUITAR STUDY BLUES SOLO 2
Lead Guitar Blues Solo 2 is the second in a series of 5 solo studies. Each 12 bar solo is broken down, explained, and demonstrated.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6-6+. It includes 2 pages and CD. ($15.00)
LEAD GUITAR STUDY BLUES SOLO 3
Lead Guitar Blues Solo 3 is the third in a series of 5 solo studies. Each 12 bar solo is broken down, explained, and demonstrated.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6-6+. It includes 2 pages and CD. ($15.00)
LEAD GUITAR STUDY BLUES SOLO 4
Lead Guitar Blues Solo 4 is the fourth in a series of 5 solo studies. Each 12 bar solo is broken down, explained, and demonstrated.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6-6+. It includes 2 pages and CD. ($15.00)
LEAD GUITAR STUDY BLUES SOLO 5
Lead Guitar Blues Solo 5 is the fifth in a series of 5 solo studies. Each 12 bar solo is broken down, explained, and demonstrated.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6-6+. It includes 2 pages and CD. ($15.00)
NEO CLASSICAL GUITAR STUDY 1 (metal)
Neo Classical Guitar Study 1 compares conventional classical music to neo classical music. A conventional classical piece is then transformed into neo classical via arrangement techniques which are explained and demonstrated.
This study is written in tablature and notation.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6. It includes 10 pages and CD. ($17.50)
PERSONALIZED SONG OR TRANSCRIPTION
You must submit a CD of the song for transcription. Personalized studies may take extra time. Allow for some delay. Your CD will be returned to you along with a study chart, chart, explanation page, and another CD which will demonstrate and guide you through the chart, measure by measure. This is an excellent vehicle to help you shape and refine your repertoire. The studies are in tablature. This is a Supplementary Lesson. ($50.00)
PERSONALIZED STUDY REQUEST
A Personalized Study Request is an opportunity for an individual to request a study concerning their specific interests which might not already be available. Personalized studies take extra time. Allow for some delay.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level and length will vary. ($50.00)
PLAYING RHYTHM GUITAR BOOK 1
This is a study of basic strum and rhythm patterns…(Quarter note rhythms, half note rhythms, eighth note rhythms, etc..) In some of the examples, a single rhythm pattern is applied to different harmonic and style situations.
For example, an eighth note strum pattern is applied to a rock groove, a country groove, a jazz groove, a blues groove, etc..
Rhythm symbolism and rhythm patterns are clearly explained. Hints and exercises are given on how to change between chords quickly and accurately.
This study is unique in the sense that some of the exercises are beginning level, some are intermediate, and some are advanced. The primary difference between these levels are in the chord shapes. This is a study in how to play rhythm guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 3-5. 22 pages and CD. ($17.50)
PLAYING RHYTHM GUITAR BOOK 2
This is the second in a series of rhythm guitar studies. Playing Rhythm Guitar Book 1 took a single rhythm figure, such as a half note, and applied that rhythmic phrase to different styles of music.
Playing Rhythm Guitar Book 2 is similar in the sense that a single rhythmic phrase will be applied to different styles of music. The rhythmic phrases in this study will involve combinations of notes which have different time values. These exercises vary in level of difficulty. The primary differences between these levels are in the chord shapes. This is a study in how to play rhythm guitar.
Most of the study is written in tablature and rhythm symbolism.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 4-6. 20 pages and CD. ($17.50)
POWER CHORDS AND BLUES LICKS
The emphasis of this study is in improving skills playing power chords, counting, and pick direction. Some classic licks are laid out as dexterity exercises. How to use power chords.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 4-5. It includes 8 pages and CD. ($15.00)
READING NOTATION SERIES 1
Reading Notation Series 1 is straight forward and very basic. It requires reading notes on the first string, then on the second string, and then both strings combined. The same method is continued until you have read on all six strings. There are 76 exercises. Each exercise is 8 bars long. Theses exercises are not familiar melodies, but rather drills laid out in a logical sequence. How to read music notation on guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 3-4. It includes literature and CD. ($17.50)
READING NOTATION SERIES 2
The entire focus of Reading Notation Series 2 is on timing. reading and counting measures which are combinations of whole, half, quarter, and eighth notes. There are 26 exercises, 8 bars long. All timing exercises are written on the first string open. How to read music notation on guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 4. It includes literature and CD. ($17.50)
READING NOTATION SERIES 3
Reading Notation Series 3 is a combination of reading, timing and melody. It requires reading, timing and melody on the first string, then reading, timing and melody on the second string, and then reading, timing and melody on both strings combined. The same method is continued until you have read on all six strings. There are 84 exercises. Each exercise is 8 bars long. How to read music notation on guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 5-6. It includes literature and CD. ($17.50)
READING NOTATION ADDENDUM
Reading Notation Addendum is a follow up study to Reading Notation 3. This reading exercise contains rests, ties, accidentals, and key signatures. The study is in notation. How to read music notation on guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It includes 6 pages and CD. ($12.50)
RIGHT HAND TAPPING TECHNIQUE AND EXERCISES STUDY
Right Hand Tapping Technique and Exercises Study is an advanced study. Rhythmic motifs are drilled across the strings as well as up and down a single string. Major, minor, augmented, and diminished chord tapping is covered. The study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6. It includes 18 pages and CD. ($17.50)
RIGHT HAND TAPPING TECHNIQUE AND EXERCISES STUDY 2
Right Hand Tapping Technique and Exercises Study 2 builds on what has been established in Study 1.The study is designed to develop skills in multi finger tapping. In other words, using several fingers of the right hand as well as the left hand using the tapping technique.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. The study includes 5 pages and CD. ($17.50)
SYNTHETIC SCALES
List and structure of Synthetic Scales. Focus on Narayan Dominant.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. The study includes 3 pages and CD. ($15.00)
STYLE STUDY AD LIB IN E MAJOR
Style Study Ad Lib in E Major describes how to come up with a plan to develop Progressive Rock solos in the key of E Major. How to ad lib solo on guitar.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. The study includes 20 pages and CD. ($17.50)
STYLE STUDY ELECTRIC BLUES
Style Study Electric Blues is a short study in electric blues guitar techniques applied to a slow 6/8 feel
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. The study contains 4 pages and CD. ($15.00)
STYLE STUDY FAST JAZZ 1
Style Study Fast Jazz 1 is a short study demonstrating the technique of using fast phrases to emulate a burst of energy in your solos. These quick bursts of fast phrasing are used frequently by jazz players.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. It contains 4 pages and CD. ($15.00)
STYLE STUDY FAST JAZZ 2
Style Study Fast Jazz 2 further looks into creating fast jazz phrasing. This is a continuation from Style Study Fast Jazz 1.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 6+. ($15.00)
SUPPLEMENTARY SONG STUDY PACKAGE
Supplementary Song Study Packages consist of song/s and study material.
Each package is designed to be consistent with the student’s current level of study. It is not unusual for a student to want to remain at a set level while they develop and hone their skills. The Supplementary Song Study Packages allow a student to receive fresh material at an established level. The difficulty level of these studies are rated by the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 6+. Level 1 corresponds to Stage 1 of the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course, level 2 corresponds to Stage 2, and so on. The 6+ rating is for students who have advanced beyond the Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level Varied. Includes literature and CD. ($20.00)
SWING RHYTHM FINGERSTYLE
Brief study which explains and demonstrates how to get a swing feel into your rhythm. The study is written in tablature and rhythm symbolism.
This is a Supplementary Lesson. Level 4. It includes 4 pages and CD. ($10.00)
TEACHER’S SUGGESTED SONG STUDY MONTHLY
This study is available for students who have prepaid or pay via a credit card on file.
Your student history and progress is automatically reviewed monthly. Based on the information in your file, a new song study and evaluation is shipped to you at the beginning of each month. If you ever have any question about anything, or if you have a specific area of concern or study you are interested in, be sure to ask. Communication is what makes the correspondence tick.
It is important for us to know if you are benefiting from each study. Is it too hard, too easy or just right? Do you need more of this or more of that, etc..
Teacher’s Suggested Song Studies are usually written in tab. They include a chart, a study chart, an explanation page and a CD/tape which will demonstrate and guide you through the chart measure by measure. This is a Supplementary Lesson. level varies.($20.00/mth via credit card on file)(prepaid students; 3 mths with shipping $73.50) (prepaid students; 6 mths with shipping $147) (prepaid students; 12 mths with shipping $294)
TECHNIQUE AND SPEED DRILLS FOR GUITAR LESSON 1
The Technique and Speed Drills for Guitar Lesson 1 is a group of warm up exercises designed to keep and improve guitar dexterity skills as well as keep guitar technique fresh in the memory. Hammer ons, pull offs, slides, bar tricks, sweeps, harmonics, rapid fire, etc., are just a few of the techniques that the warm up drills include. This study lays out a method of how to improve guitar skills.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 5-6. It includes 14 pages and CD. ($17.50)
TECHNIQUE AND SPEED DRILLS FOR GUITAR LESSON 2
The Technique and Speed Drills for Guitar Lesson 2 is a compilation of rapid fire drills. Each riff is drilled on its own, then moved chromatically, and then moved within a scale pattern. The riffs are designed so that one riff will flow into the next. The idea being: to enable the player to connect one riff to another in a solo composition or an ad lib situation. This study lays out a method of how to improve guitar skills.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 6. It includes 19 pages and CD. ($17.50)
WHAMMY BAR TECHNIQUES AND EXERCISES STUDY
The Jim Sutton Whammy Bar Techniques and Exercises Study demonstrates common whammy bar usage. Tremolos, vibratos, dives, bends, weeps, laughs, whinnies, bounces, harmonics, etc.. The techniques are applied to short riffs and demonstrated. The study is written in tablature.
This is a Supplementary Lesson, level 5-6. It includes 12 pages and CD. ($17.50)
Complete Course Studies (beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)
Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course (Beginner through Intermediate Guitar Course. Stage 1-6)
Moving Toward Great Guitar Playing Course (Stage 1-6)
119.70 + shipping
Jim Sutton Institute of Guitar will help you achieve your guitar playing goals
Music Theory Course for Guitar Players (Complete Course. Books 1-8 with pre-paid grading)
Modal and Solo Composition Course For Guitar Players (Complete course with pre-paid grading)
Jim Sutton Institute of Guitar
International Correspondence Guitar School
23014 Quail Shute, Spring, TX 77389-3944 USA
ph (281) 281-528-9922 or 800-621-7669
e-mail: JimSuttonISG@gmail.com
Web Site https://www.JSIGuitar.net