Learning Jazz Guitar

Lots of guitarists who come from a rock and pop background and want to learn jazz guitar often treat it like it’s a mystery or riddle that needs to be solved! Remember that jazz was the pop music of it’s day. The great Joe Pass learned his art by playing along to songs on the radio. He also used to take his guitar down to the record store and figure out Charlie Parker solos from the record! I’m not saying lessons aren’t important – a good teacher can give you important guidance and feedback – but not enough guitarists listen to and transcribe jazz music as they would for rock and pop tunes.