Attention: Fingerpicking guitarists over 40

Struggling With Fingerpicking? This Little-Known Method Will Have You Playing With Ease And...

Confidence!

"I needed this book 60 years ago"

...Following Dan's teaching has become a daily pleasure. Anyone young or 80 like me can use this with confidence. (Ian Laing - student)

  • Play the 10 most fun and practical fingerpicking patterns, allowing you to play up to 1000s of songs.
  • A step-by-step method to avoid months and maybe even years of frustration.
  • The simple secrets to playing guitar without pain or sore fingers and how this will give you rock-solid confidence.

Dear Guitarist,

If you don't already know, I'm Dan Thorpe. 

I specialise in teaching adults who are 40+.

...And those who want to have fun playing guitar for themselves, impress loved ones, and maybe even jam at an open mic or campfire.

In the beginning, many of these students struggled, but now they are all playing beautiful music on their guitars.

I'll show you how, but first, here's the real reason...

Why I Believe Most Guitarists are Struggling in 2025
...And What You Can Do To Fix It Today

Are you frustrated with endless YouTube tutorials or buying random courses?

If so, you’re not alone.

Most guitarists waste months—or even years—jumping from lesson to lesson with no real progress. 

...But that’s why I created the T.E.S.T. Method. It's a simple, structured approach that takes you from struggling to confident in weeks.

And you can learn all about it in my book.

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Introducing...
 Fingerstyle 101
The Exclusive Spiral-Bound Edition
Fingerstyle 101 Spiral v2

Fingerstyle 101 is a step-by-step guide designed specifically for adult beginners who want to master fingerpicking without frustration.

  • 10 must-know fingerpicking patterns used in folk, pop, and Travis picking—unlock thousands of songs with ease and get a lifetime of enjoyable, effortless guitar playing.
  • Instantly eliminate the “Death Grip”—play pain free, even if you struggle with arthritis or sore fingers (Page 16).
  • Master patterns & chord progressions from legends like Clapton, James Taylor, and Paul Simon (Pages 58 & 65)
  • Speed up chord changes effortlessly with the 3-Step Method—no more frustrating, slow transitions (Page 29).
  • Fix the 7 “Deadly” Fingerpicking Mistakes, including the #1 bad habit that holds most beginners back (Page 36). 
  • Develop rock-solid timing with the Rhythm 101 exercise and skip "boring" metronome drills while playing with confidence (Page 33).
  • Stop plucking the wrong strings forever with an unusual pro technique (Page 13).
  • Transform your sound instantly with the "Fingerpicking Tone Test"—go from weak & crackly to smooth & elegant (Page 14).
  • Master chord-melody playing like a pro (Page 103), learn to read TAB easily (Page 120), and follow a proven 10-step action plan to stay on track (Page 97).
  • Plus... Improve your "musical memory" using a trick from ancient Greece (Page 105) and discover a cheap tool that stops buzzing chords for good (Page 34).
John Philcox

John Philcox

★★★★★
I've tried many books and don't usually get to finish them. This is more concise and really motivating to make you want to practice.

G.L. Lynch

G.L. Lynch

★★★★★
A gold mine of fingerstyle technique for all levels.

A. Davies

A. Davies

★★★★★
A clear writing style that's easy to follow. It's like having a one-to-one lesson with Dan.

Mike Barron

Mike Barron

★★★★★
The 1st edition was a bestseller. The 2nd edition is even better. It is ridiculously good value.

Inside the book, you'll get 80+ audio examples at full and slow speeds.

Everything is written with clear instructions, you get the full TAB, standard notation, and a printable file for easy reference (which is great for making notes on)... and this...

Brand new for 2025: limited Edition Spiral Bound

When you order Fingerstyle 101 on this page...

You can now get the new and exclusive spiral-bound version

If you ever get annoyed with your music books folding shut on their own or falling off your music stand, you will love this NEW limited edition spiral-bound version...

See? It doesn't fall of the music stand unlike "normal" bound books!

What Others Are Saying About Fingerstyle 101...

Don't just take my word for it.

Each day I get new emails from students telling me things like this...

Gibby H.

★★★★★

"I look forward to working through these lessons and I am finally seeing a progression.

Includes the TAB, notes, audio. There's nothing left for him to do other than sit down beside you in person."

— Gibby H.

Anne

★★★★★

"Well structured and clear. It 'speaks' to you almost as if Dan is in front of you giving you a lesson. 

Each chapter flows logically into the next. The building blocks soon start to stack up and you get visible results. 

— Anne S.

Charles McGrother Jr

★★★★★

"It's deceptively simple, but full of the basics needed to play fingerstyle.
The exercises are entertaining.

Not only that this is definitively making me a better player, but also a better composer and performer.

— Ulric B.

The Question Is, Are YOU Ready?

As you can see, no stone is left unturned in helping you overcome the hurdles that can come with learning the guitar as an adult beginner.

Get your copy of Fingerstyle 101 today...

Book Cover v2

I've priced this book affordably to make it accessible to as many fingerpicking guitarists as possible.

Get the exclusive spiral-bound paperback with free U.S. shipping OR instant digital PDF download today!

Better Technique, Better Music—And a Healthier Brain!

Playing an instrument isn’t just fun.

It’s also great for your brain!

Studies* show that creative activities like playing guitar can improve memory, focus, and cognitive health—even in just one month.

With Fingerstyle 101, you’ll not only master beautiful fingerpicking but also sharpen your mind while doing it!

Learn at A speed That Suits You!

Ever feel overwhelmed by the vast number of things to learn?

If so, remember, everything is clearly laid out. 

You can use and re-use the lessons as many times as you like, so you can learn at a pace that suits you.

...And how great would it be to spend time creating music with your loved ones?

A little jam with a loved one can create lasting, wonderful memories just like I have done with my own son when he was little...

...But let me say, even the most dedicated beginners get stuck. 

Often, it’s because of a few small mistakes they don’t realise they’re making.

Are You Making These Common Mistakes?

Most guitarists don’t realise their bad habits are holding them back.

Do any of these sound familiar?

  • Tense shoulders (limiting fluid movements)
  • Fingers too far from the strings (causing missed notes)
  • A rigid pinkie (makes fretting harder).
  • A crooked thumb (leads to pain & tension).

Can you spot the 4 specific errors this guitarist is making? If not, you will find the book especially helpful.

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Fingerstyle 101 shows you exactly how to fix these issues—so you can play effortlessly, with zero frustration!

...And if you want to go deeper with your guitar playing journey, you can get this...
The Special Deluxe Edition

You can now get the "Deluxe" version featuring everything you need to master your fingerpicking, which includes:

  • Get the Fingerstyle 101 spiral-bound version (Free Worldwide Shipping Via FedEx)
  • The Fingerstyle 101 PDF which you can read anywhere!
  • The FULL Fingerstyle 101 Video Course. (Students of mine who get the video course as well as the book make even faster progress).
  • Plus... The Fingerstyle Songs Collection featuring full fingerstyle arrangements of songs such as "Danny Boy", "House of the Rising Sun", and many more classics.
  • My Travis Picking Masterclass (teaching you to play in the style of Chet Atkins, Merle Travis, and Tommy Emmanuel.)

To order this special edition version, please go HERE.

Listen to a few samples of what you will be learning Below...

Below I've put together a little "medley" of some of the audio tracks taken from the book...

Claim Your Copy Now and Enjoy These FREE Bonuses!

Bonus #1 - Breakthrough Beginner 
(Video Course)

Fix Your Bad Habits and Begin With Confidence!

Bonus #1 v3

Total Value $97.00

Most guitar teachers skip the basics, leaving students with bad habits that take years to fix.

This step-by-step course helps you build confidence and solid technique from Day 1 and inside, you’ll learn:

  • Proper finger placement & posture for smooth playing.
  • Essential techniques most teachers overlook.
  • How to build good habits that make learning easier.

Start strong and avoid frustration!

Bonus #2 - The Ultimate Warm-Up

How To Prevent Injury, Reduce Strains, and Make Your Fingers More Nimble

Bonus #2 v7

Total Value $27.00

  • Bad technique slows progress and can lead to injury. That's the bad news, but...
  • This quick video lesson reveals simple, effective tips to improve technique, prevent strain, and make your playing sound instantly better—starting today!

Play smarter, stay pain free, and enjoy better results!

Bonus #3 - Private Facebook Group

get support and join a passionate community

Bonus #3 v2

Total Value $47.00

Join thousands of guitarists in our private Facebook group—your go-to place for support, advice, and motivation.

  • Ask questions & get expert guidance
  • Connect with like-minded players
  • Stay motivated & track your progress

Order Fingerstyle 101 today and get instant access!

Bonus #4 - Two-Finger Chords!

Unlock The Fretboard And Play Beautiful Easy Chords

Bonus #4 v3

Total Value $27.00

Struggling with chords? This simple trick lets you play beautiful music—without complex finger positions!

  • Learn easy two-finger chords used by the likes of Ed Sheeran & The Beatles.
  • Unlock the fretboard and add rich, full sounds to your playing.
  • Start having fun today—no chord struggles required!

A game-changer for beginners—they're effortless & musical.

Bonus #5 - Supercharge Your Chord Changes

How To rapidly end slow chord changes… for good!

Bonus #5 v2

Total Value $37.00

Slow chord changes frustrate many beginners—but they don’t have to. This bonus will show you how to...

  • Fix bad habits & improve technique
  • Discover unique tips to speed up transitions
  • Make smoother, faster chord changes from Day 1

Less struggle, more music—start playing with confidence! 🎶

But That's Not All!

Also get my video tutorials for three of the most stunning beginner-friendly songs I've ever taught AND My special podcast...

Packed with pro tips and technique fixes, these will help you play more songs, overcome frustrations, and improve faster.

3 Songs Bundle
Podcast v2

This is a one-time purchase

This is a one-time purchase.

No hidden fees or subscriptions.

I’ve made this book as affordable as possible, but let me tell you...

It's important you take action today!

Don't waste time struggling—this step-by-step fingerpicking plan will help you play with confidence and ease.

Learn from years of proven lessons that work better than ever in 2025.

If you've been putting off learning, now is the time to start.

Let’s make music together!

Book Pages Bundle

Here's My Guarantee...

I 100% guarantee that you'll love this book... or I'll return your money.

Just email me and I'll give you back your money.

...All I ask is that you actually use the book before asking for a refund.

Sound fair?

And if you're ready to begin, click the link below right now for which version you would like to order - the new spiral-bound paperback or the PDF. 

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Here's EVERYTHING you get when you order Fingerstyle 101 Today!

✔️ Fingerstyle 101 (Spiral-bound or PDF)

($14.95 Value)

✔️ Breakthrough Beginner Video Course

($97.00 Value)

✔️ The Ultimate Warm-Up

($27.00 Value)

✔️ Private Facebook Group

($47.00 Value)

✔️ Two-Finger Chords!

($27.00 Value)

✔️ Supercharge Your Chord Changes

($37.00 Value)

✔️ Plus... 3 Classic Songs 

($37.00 Value)

Total Value: $286.95

Get Your Copy of Fingerstyle 101 Today 

Available now: You can now get the "Deluxe" version

dELUXE VIDEO VERSION

Get the Spiral-bound Version (Free Worldwide Shipping, PDF, Video Course, AND The "Fingerstyle Songs Collection", My Travis Picking Masterclass, and More.

Get It for Just $87

Once you hit the "YES!" button, this is what will happen...

When you order Fingerstyle 101, here’s what happens next:

  • Spiral-bound Paperback – Ships within 1 business day (order before 3 PM EST, and it goes out today!).
  • PDF – Get instant access right after checkout.
  • Deluxe Version – The book is shipped to you wherever you are in the world (we cover postage) via FedEx, plus you get instant access to ALL the videos, PDF, and exclusive extras.

I truly appreciate you taking the time to check this out...

And just like I have done with 1000s of others, I’d love to help you on your guitar journey. Click below to get started! 

Thousands have purchased it So Far and here are more Reviews For Fingerstyle 101!
"I have stubby, arthritic fingers... and i'm having the time of my life"
Cecil N.

Cecil Meyer

★★★★★
I bought my first guitar 6 months ago. I have stubby, arthritic fingers... and I'm having the time of my life. Every day I learn something new. 

S. Denton

S. Denton

★★★★★
A terrific book. It is definitely a positive force in keeping those of us over 50 to keep pluggin away and having fun playing the guitar.

Dan Thorpe

Author

I’m Dan Thorpe, and I know what it’s like to struggle with guitar—I’ve been there.

That’s why I’m passionate about helping adults learn comfortably, confidently, and without frustration.

Since 2013, I’ve been teaching students how to play with better technique, reduce tension and pain, and learn songs faster—
so they can truly enjoy making music.

My goal?

To help you fingerpick beautiful melodies, have fun, and experience the joy of playing guitar—all with a smile on your face!


Dan Thorpe

Get Your Copy of Fingerstyle 101
Begin Today

I'd like to get you a copy of my best-selling book to your doorstep, ASAP, or remember, you can start immediately with the PDF if you prefer.

Dan Thorpe

Dan Thorpe_P3

Your Questions Answered?

What exactly am I getting when I order Fingerstyle 101?

You get to choose if you want the paperback or PDF version of the game-changing Fingerstyle 101 book.

You're also getting a series of bonuses (worth $289.95) to help you play stunning songs and have fun immediately. Plus, you get free lifetime access to the Fingerstyle 101 Facebook group.

I’ve bought lots of books and courses, but never seem to finish them. How is this different?

This is like no other book I've come across. You only have to see the countless testimonials on this page to see how this book can transform your playing. 

You will find highly motivating lessons, a focus on REAL technique in detail (which sadly most teachers gloss over), and a solid step-by-step plan for improving your fingerpicking, rhythm, musicality, and more.

The bottom line is the book will give you results so that once you get up and running, you will truly fall in love with playing the guitar.

How does the money-back guarantee work?

Simply try the book, enjoy the bonuses, and if you don't like it, just contact us and we will refund you.

Before asking for a refund, please be aware, I ask that you actually use the book first. 

If you order the PDF, refunds will be issued on the same day requested.

If you order the paperback, you will need to post the book back to my publisher in New York. Once received, the refund will be taken care of the same day. 

If you are in doubt as to which version to get, ordering the PDF is the easiest option.

Honestly, I believe in this so much and know it will be a game changer for you, but if it is not for you for any reason, we will ensure you get a prompt refund.

How safe is your site when putting my card details in?

Our website is as secure as can be. You can pay via PayPal or credit/debit card and we use ThriveCart to process the orders.

This is an established payment processor used around the world to process millions of dollars of payments so you can rest assured your private details are safe.

I'm 72, the book sounds great, but I’ve only played for 8 months and still struggle with chords. Will I still find it useful?

Yes.

I do not promise miracles (I will leave that to others), but I am vastly experienced at turning frustrated guitarists into real guitar players.

This is a step-by-step book and the bottom line is this...

As long as you practise and do exactly as I teach, you will make progress in every area of your playing... meaning clearer chords, faster chord changes, better tone, fewer mistakes, a stunning repertoire of fingerpicking patterns to play, and the ability to play beautiful songs and music.

It takes practice, of course, but simply follow the instructions and you will see these results. 

How long will it take to see results?

The lessons will help you get results and start building up good habits immediately.

In fact, the very first tip will help you instantly end the "Death Grip", meaning your fingers will be less sore right away.

In terms of big results, I ask students to practise these methods for 20 minutes per day, 5-7 days per week.

If you do that, within 14 days, you'll see a noticeable difference in all your playing, and over the coming 2-3 months, you'll feel like a new guitarist.

Remember, though, you have to use the lessons to make the progress you desire. 

Who is this course for?

Although this book is for all guitarists, my steady, step-by-step approach really resonates with those who are aged 40+.

We focus on beautiful fingerpicking music and how to play styles such as 60s folk, classic pop, Travis picking, acoustic rock, and many other wonderful fingerpicking styles.

If you are learning a little later on in life, and want a confidence-building clear and concise method, this is for you.

Fingerstyle101 Books v1

© 2025 Dan Thorpe Guitar Ltd.

*The BBC study on brain health was created as part of The Twinstitute series - Episode 4 of Series 1, first aired in 2019.