They call it the bible for classical guitarists. Not a songbook, not a dry exercise manual, but a field guide for the serious player who dreams of clean scales, effortless tremolo, and nails that can summon Segovia from the ether.

Written by Scott Tennant—founding member of the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet—Pumping Nylon has been the secret weapon of conservatory students and living-room strummers alike since it first appeared in the 1990s. Inside: detailed technique studies, warm-ups, exercises, nail-shaping tips, even quirky “daily routines” that will make your fingers stronger and your sound cleaner.