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A brief introduction
to the flamenco guitar.
Even
before starting to learn to play the guitar, one of the most important aspects
to look at is posture, as incorrect position can lead to life back pain and injuries.
Both amateur and professional guitarists have to retire due to injury if this
is not mastered. So ensure that the back is as straight as can be and that the
weight of your body is evenly distributed on your buttocks. Once holding the guitar
the whole body should be relaxed at all times.
Left
hand position – the thumb should be in the middle of the neck (viewing from
behind) and an arch should be formed between the fingers and the thumb so as not
to touch the neck whilst playing.
Right
hand position – the basic position is to place the thumb on the 6th
string, the hand parallel to the bridge with the little finger out to balance
the hand. The little finger is very important as it keeps the hand "open".
Finally, the hand should be arched from the wrist and relaxed.
Right
hand technique
Remembering
the basic position, there are many different "rasgueados" or strums
to practice. Each beat should be the same. Here are a few :
(e
= little finger; a = ring finger; m = middle; i = index; p = thumb)
e
a m i i - four strokes down then up with index
a m i i - three strokes down then up with index
a m i - all three strokes down
m i i - two strokes down then up with index
Triplet
rasgueados:
p
m p up down down (movement from the wrist)
p a i up down down ( " " )
Compás
This
means bar or rhythm. In flamenco there are many different "toques" or
styles and many of them are based on a sequence of 12 beats. These include Soleá,
Bulerías, Alegrias, etc. The basic way of counting these are as follows
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Clap
the beats accentuating the stressed ones in bold using a metronome. It is essential
to be familiarized with these rhythms before playing.
Remember
basic right hand position and posture. Always use a metronome and good luck!
© Rafael
1999. All rights reserved.
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