Guitar Techniques Features

Steve Dadaian has loved Dream Theater since junior high. So when he had the opportunity to shred with the band’s keyboard wizard, he jumped at the chance to flex his chops

Harrison suggested answering each of McCartney's lines with a guitar phrase, an addition McCartney saw as unnecessary

After using Tortex for 20 years, I tried Fender’s “game-changing” Offset Picks – they weren’t my final destination, but they made me realize what an important contribution picks make to your overall sound

Online lessons are great for developing your guitar skills from the comfort of your home or on the road – our experts have thoroughly tested options for all levels and budgets

Peter Green was one of the all-time greats, and influenced everyone from Gary Moore to Joe Bonamassa and Kirk Hammett. This soloing masterclass unpacks his peerless phrasing, rhythmic approach and string bending

Overshadowed by the flamboyant frontman for whom he worked, Jimmy Nolen created a singular rhythm style that can still be heard all over pop and rock radio today

For new guitarists this is one of the biggest questions. We’re here to help you choose the right path and find the right guitar for you

Be inspired but don't be intimidated by social media virtuosity, says respected guitar tutor Justin Sandercoe. Remember, these influencers are pros and you're only seeing them at their best

British blues guitarist and songwriter Jack J. Hutchinson on pedals, power trios, solos – and the illness that derailed his career

These titans of online guitar tuition take a very different approach to teaching. What sets them apart and which is the best one for you?

Pedalpocalypse: Ruzz 'Guitar' Evans of Ruzz Guitar's Blues Revue on the two pedals and amazing pickups behind his rock 'n' roll tone

It's the return of Pedalpocalypse, “the Desert Island Discs for pedals”, with Henry James from Robert Jon & The Wreck and King Tree & The Earth Mothers on the three pedals he would take with him in the event of a future lockdown

Many of the finest online guitar tuition sites, apps and channels are yours for free. The only investments you need to make are time and effort!

Though she passed away five decades ago, footage of Tharpe's aggressive, virtuosic and precise fretwork, thankfully, remains

Overcoming plateaus in your guitar practice is about confronting the aspects of playing that you find difficult, and then finding a routine that works for you

Use what you’re born with, or stick with a pick? We take a close look at the tones and techniques associated with playing guitar and bass with fingers and pick

In this all-encompassing 2020 interview, the Led Zeppelin legend reflects on the evolution of his guitar rig, writing rock’s greatest albums – and how the Beatles shaped the sound of Whole Lotta Love

The Australian virtuoso explains how writing a dissertation on Steely Dan’s harmonic vocabulary helped him build a record full of ambiguity and tension in Charcoal Grace

A revealing (and possibly triggering) compilation of excuses for not practicing guitar

From gear choices to learning paths, these are the most common beginner guitar faux pas that every new player makes – and how you can avoid them