Free Guitar Software to Download

Some of the best software for guitar players is free to download.

Here is a list of the most popular programs, complete with our recommendations, checks on the safety of downloads, and reviews of functionality and ease of use.

Riffworks

RiffWorks T4 is a free guitar recording and online song collaboration program for Mac and Windows. RiffWorks is designed and developed by Sonoma Wire Works. The software can be downloaded from Sonoma Wire Works and includes guitar effects, drum tracks, and online music collaboration system.

Once finished, songs can be posted on the website to share with everyone. There are pro versions available with expanded capabilities, but the free T4 package gives you four layers plus drums, InstantDrummer, a profile page, the ability to post online and iPhone app import.

RiffWorks has a built-in online music collaboration system, RiffLink. Songs are saved on the server and guitarists can work on the same song file from different locations. The system has synchronization and chat features and integrates with RiffWorld, where users can post songs and get feedback from others. Guitarists have traditionally shied away from loop-based recording, associating it more with electronica and hip hop genres than guitar styles. However, more and more guitarists are turning to the digital realm for inspiration and software like Riffworks is helping them to explore these new sounds.

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Kordo: a magic chord notation tool

Kordo is a beautifully written online tool for guitar chord notation. It is based on a collaborative open source project and is being constantly developed. All types of chords, voicings and fingerings are available, making it an ideal learning tool for both beginner, intermediate as well as advanced guitarists.

The interface is simple and elegant, allowing you to concentrate on chord shapes and fingering. With Kordo, innovative notations and custom chord voicings are possible. Kordo is available for free online and works very well on iPhones, iPads and other tablets and smartphones: chords in your pocket!

Guitar Chords Crash Course

Guitar Chords Crash Course (Nickname “G3C”) -will try to teach you guitar chords. the software is suitable for beginners to more advanced users.

Over 1000 chords, 48 scales and 13 tunings are included. Editable chord files. G3C is able to play all chords it can display. It includes a guitar tuner and editable tunings. You can make your own favorite guitar tuning and have G3C play the chords in that tuning.

A drum machine is also part of the package, to support you rhythmically while you work on your chord progressions. It allows you to create and edit your own drum patterns. The program is free to download but a donation is solicited.

Mixcraft

This one is not free but a must for every guitar player serious about playing and recording their music: Mixcraft. The name sums it up – mixing really is a craft and Mixcraft makes it easy to master.

• Record and create an unlimited number of audio and MIDI tracks
• Arrange and score video files, adding music, sound effects, and voice-overs
• Includes over 3000 professionally produced music loops and sound effects in dozens of popular styles
• Includes a large collection of virtual instruments, ranging from modelled vintage synths to high-quality sampled acoustic instruments
• Includes 22 high quality effects, ranging from studio standards such as reverb, chorus and EQ, to high-end guitar amp simulators, vintage tube EQs, and more…

For its ease of use, combined with the powerful mixing, editing and looping features, Mixcraft isthe best in its class. The price is a very reasonable: $74.95. PC only.

Guitar Noise

Guitar Noise has to be mentioned here, even though it is not a guitar software program. GN is a free online guitar lesson site with hundreds of articles, tips and reviews. The site has something to offer everyone from the absolute beginner to the seasoned professional. With is a forum members and a group of dedicated writers, Guitar Noise is one of the friendliest musician communities online.

Frets on Fire

Frets on Fire – is a free, open-source guitar video game, resembling Guitar Hero in some aspects. The aim of the game is to complete a song by scoring points along the way. Frets on Fire includes a built-in song editor (or “fretting” tool) that allows editing and creation of songs. This allows you to customise your own tracks. Hammer-on and pull-off notes are supported, allowing for a more nuanced sound.

Two quick links for guitarists, worth a mention: Dale Churchet’s Essential Guitar Guide and Drumbot, a basic but fun online drum machine.

Guitar Chord Groover

Save and print your own chord songs with this easy to use program.

Guitar Chord Groover includes solo notes and chords, you can edit your own tabs and songs and watch them play on the screen. Real sounds and a two handed animated display help you understand how to play chord changes: with major, minor and 7ths chords. Solo note editor helps you learn the fretboard as you play. You can add lyrics and play along with the computer, and save up to 12 bars. Crotchet and quaver (eighth note) rhythms are included. For beginners or practice for everyone: you can play at any tempo or use as a backing track.