Taylor Guitars have a reputation for quality and craftsmanship, making them a top choice for many guitarists. When it comes to fingerstyle playing, the right guitar can make a big difference. Fingerstyle is a technique that involves using your fingers to pluck the strings, rather than a pick. This style allows for intricate melodies and harmonies, which is why many players look for guitars that enhance their sound and playability.
When buying a guitar for fingerstyle, you want to focus on a few key factors. Body shape affects how the guitar resonates and projects sound. The wood used in the construction plays a huge role in tone, with different types offering warmer or brighter sounds. You should also consider the neck width and string action, which can impact comfort and ease of playing.
Finding the best Taylor guitar for fingerstyle isn’t just about choosing a popular model; it’s about choosing one that fits your style and needs. With that in mind, let’s explore six great Taylor guitars that stand out for fingerstyle playing.
Best Taylor Guitars for Fingerstyle
If you’re looking for the best Taylor guitars for fingerstyle playing, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up some top picks that can help you create beautiful melodies and rich tones. Check out the list below to find the perfect match for your playing style.
Taylor Swift – Really Easy Guitar
If you love Taylor Swift and want to play her songs, this book might be just what you need.
Pros
- Contains popular Taylor Swift songs.
- Is easy to follow with bigger print and chord boxes.
- Offers multiple ways to read the music.
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners; geared more toward intermediate players.
- Lacks strumming patterns, which may be frustrating.
- Requires a capo for many songs, adding a challenge.
This book is perfect for fans of Taylor Swift who already know some guitar basics. You’ll find 22 songs that are fun to play. The print is large, making it easy to read while you strum. Finding chords and lyrics is a breeze, which keeps you engaged.
Keep in mind that this is not a beginner book. If you’re just starting out, you might find it challenging. Many reviews suggest it’s great for intermediate players who want to improve their skills. The book skips strumming patterns, which could be a downside for those looking for more guidance.
Flying Fingers: Authentic & Accurate Fingerstyle Guitar Anthology
This book is highly recommended for advanced players who want to explore beautiful fingerstyle pieces.
Pros
- Great for discovering new fingerstyle pieces from legendary artists.
- Thick book packed with content that keeps you engaged.
- Wide coverage of styles, challenging yet rewarding.
Cons
- Requires a solid skill level to fully appreciate the material.
- Complex tabs may need audio examples for some players.
- Not ideal for beginners who struggle with reading tabs.
You can find a treasure trove of fingerstyle music in this anthology. It features works from renowned artists, ensuring every page offers something new. This is the kind of book that keeps giving, as many players find themselves returning to it for years.
The variety in music styles within the book means you can explore different techniques and genres. Many players enjoy the challenge, while others appreciate how it enhances their skills.
Some users noted that the tabs could be quite complex. This means that if you’re just starting out, you might want to build your skills first before diving into this collection.
Fingerstyle Guitar by Ken Perlman
This book is a solid choice if you’re starting with fingerstyle guitar and looking for clear guidance.
Pros
- Contains a variety of songs in different styles, making it fun to practice.
- Clear instructions and easy-to-follow tabs for beginners.
- The author shares a friendly and helpful approach.
Cons
- Some methods may feel slightly outdated.
- Not enough instructions on tempo for the songs.
- Limited advanced techniques for more experienced players.
Fingerstyle Guitar by Ken Perlman is a great resource for you if you want to explore fingerstyle playing. The book is full of songs that cater to different tastes, letting you find what you enjoy most. Beginners appreciate the straightforward layout and easy tabs, making it easy to jump in and start playing.
There’s also a nice mix of music styles, which keeps your practice sessions interesting. You can work on everything from classic tunes to folk pieces. This variety helps you grow your skills while enjoying the learning process.
While some parts of the book may feel a bit dated, the content remains valuable. The lack of specific tempo markings might require some extra attention on your part, but the included material helps guide you in mastering fingerstyle techniques at your own pace.
Beginning Fingerstyle Blues Guitar
This book is a solid choice for anyone eager to learn fingerstyle blues guitar, especially beginners.
Pros
- Offers clear exercises for easy learning.
- Designed for those with little to no guitar knowledge.
- Well structured to gradually build skills.
Cons
- The accompanying CD may be difficult to follow.
- Some users found it dated since it was published in 1993.
- Indexing issues between the book and CD can be confusing.
You will find this book really accessible. It starts with basic exercises and builds up from there. Each section is easy to follow, making it a great fit for beginner guitarists. You’ll practice important skills like playing a bass line while adding melodies.
The book also includes some engaging pieces that can keep your practice sessions fresh. Many users appreciate how organized the content is. You’ll notice that the exercises help you understand the key concepts without overwhelming you.
On the downside, some have pointed out issues with the CD. It seems to contain a lot of unnecessary talk and its organization doesn’t quite match the book. Despite this, many users still find the book itself is worth it for its helpful structure and detailed instructions.
Complete Fingerstyle Guitar Method
This method book is a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their fingerstyle guitar skills.
Pros
- Offers clear instructions and a variety of pieces to play.
- Progresses at a suitable pace for beginners and intermediates alike.
- Includes online audio tracks to support your learning.
Cons
- Audio playback can be difficult to manage and may sound distorted.
- Some users feel missing details on hand positioning limit its effectiveness.
- A few experienced players found areas lacking when compared to other resources.
You’ll find this book helpful as it builds a foundation in fingerstyle playing. The variety of challenging pieces keeps practice engaging, catering to both newcomers and those with some experience. You’ll develop your skills while enjoying the learning process.
The included online audio tracks add a practical element. However, the playback issues may frustrate some users. It can be disappointing if you’re hoping to slow down tracks for easier learning, but many do find the book’s content valuable overall.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right guitar for fingerstyle playing is important. Here are some key features to consider:
Body Shape
- Dreadnought: Great for bold sound but might be harder to handle.
- Concert and Grand Concert: Easier to play with softer tones, good for fingerstyle.
- Parlor: Smaller and comfy, perfect for quick finger movements.
Neck Profile
Look for a comfortable neck. A thinner neck can be easier for fingerstyle players. Try different neck shapes to see what feels best for you.
Tonewoods
Different woods affect the sound. Here’s a quick list:
| Wood Type | Sound Description |
|---|---|
| Spruce | Bright and clear |
| Cedar | Warm and full |
| Mahogany | Rich and mellow |
| Rosewood | Complex and resonant |
Pickup System
If you plan to perform, consider a built-in pickup. This can help you amplify your sound without losing quality.
Budget
Set a clear budget. There are great options in both lower and higher price ranges. You don’t have to break the bank to find a quality fingerstyle guitar.
Try different models to see what feels and sounds best to you. Your choice should fit your playing style and personal taste!