How to Play a Requinto Guitar

The requinto guitar is a beautiful instrument that often gets overshadowed by its bigger siblings, the classical and flamenco guitars. It's like the underrated gem hiding in plain sight. If you're curious about this charming guitar, you're in for a treat. We'll cover everything from what makes the requinto unique to how you can start playing it with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just beginning your musical journey, you'll find something valuable here. Let's get started on this melodious adventure.

What Sets the Requinto Apart?

So, what exactly is a requinto guitar? Think of it as the smaller cousin of the classical guitar, but don’t let its size fool you. This little powerhouse packs a punch with its bright and resonant sound. The requinto typically has a scale length of about 530-540 mm (compared to the standard 650 mm of a classical guitar), making it perfect for those with smaller hands or those who enjoy a tighter string tension.

The requinto is commonly used in Latin American music, especially in genres like bolero and son. Its unique sound makes it an ideal choice for melodic and harmonic roles in ensembles. The higher pitch and sweeter tone of the requinto add a distinctive flavor to any musical piece it graces.

Interestingly enough, the requinto's smaller size also makes it more portable. If you're someone who's always on the move, you might find the requinto a convenient option without compromising on sound quality. It’s like having a tiny orchestra at your fingertips, ready to serenade at a moment’s notice.

Choosing the Right Requinto

Before you plunge into playing, you’ll want to pick the right instrument. Just like any other guitar, the quality of a requinto can vary significantly. You don’t have to break the bank, but there are a few things to consider that will make your playing experience much more enjoyable.

• Material: Look for a requinto made from quality woods such as cedar or spruce for the top, and rosewood or mahogany for the back and sides. These materials contribute to a rich, resonant tone.
• Craftsmanship: Pay attention to the build quality. Check for clean joints, sturdy neck attachment, and a smooth finish. A well-crafted requinto can make a world of difference.
• Brand: While brand isn’t everything, opting for reputable brands can be a safe bet if you're unsure. Brands like Yamaha and Cordoba are known for producing quality instruments that can suit various budgets.
• Playability: Make sure the neck feels comfortable in your hand and that the action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) is not too high, which can make playing difficult.

Consider visiting a music store to try out a few options. Playing the instrument before purchasing it can give you a better idea of what feels right for you. And remember, every guitarist is unique, so trust your instincts and choose what feels best.

Tuning Your Requinto

Tuning a requinto can be a bit different from what you're used to if you come from a classical or acoustic guitar background. Typically, the requinto is tuned a fourth higher than a standard guitar. So, instead of E-A-D-G-B-e, you're looking at A-D-G-C-E-a. This higher tuning gives the requinto its characteristic bright tone.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to getting your requinto in tune:

1. Start with the 6th string (the thickest), and tune it to an A. You can use a piano, tuning fork, or digital tuner as a reference.
2. Move to the 5th string, tuning it to D.
3. Continue with the 4th string and tune it to G.
4. The 3rd string should be tuned to C.
5. For the 2nd string, aim for E.
6. Finally, tune the 1st string to A.

Having a good tuner is essential, especially when you're just starting. It helps train your ear to recognize the pitch, making tuning by ear easier over time. And once you're comfortable with the tuning, you'll find that the unique tones of the requinto can add a new layer to your musical expression.

Basic Chords and Progressions

If you're already familiar with guitar playing, you'll be pleased to know that many of the chord shapes transfer directly to the requinto. Due to its higher tuning, the sound may be different, but the hand shapes remain the same. Let's take a look at some basic chords to get you started.

• C Major: Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string, middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string, and index finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string.
• G Major: Position your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th string, index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string, and ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string.
• D Major: Press your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string, middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 1st string, and ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd string.
• A Minor: Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string, ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string, and index finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string.
• E Minor: Use your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string and ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string.

Practice transitioning between these chords smoothly. A common progression you can start with is C-G-Am-F. This progression is versatile and used in countless songs, making it a great practice tool.

If you’re looking to spice things up, Riffhard has lessons that break down more complex chord progressions and fingerpicking techniques that can elevate your requinto playing skills.

Strumming Patterns for Requinto

Once you’re comfortable with chords, the next step is to work on your strumming. Strumming patterns can greatly affect the feel and mood of a song. For the requinto, you want to focus on patterns that highlight its bright and melodic nature.

Basic Strumming Pattern

A simple down-up strumming pattern can work wonders. Start with a steady rhythm, strumming down on the beat and up between beats. It sounds simple, but it’s a great way to get a feel for the instrument.

1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

D U D U D U D U

Syncopated Strumming

For a more Latin feel, try a syncopated pattern. This involves accenting off-beats to give a more dynamic and lively sound. A common pattern might look like this:

1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

D D U U D U

Practice these patterns slowly at first. Use a metronome to keep time, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable. Syncopation can be tricky, but with practice, it’ll become second nature.

Exploring Fingerpicking

Fingerpicking on the requinto can produce beautifully intricate melodies. Because the strings are closer together than on a standard guitar, fingerpicking can feel a bit different, but it opens up a world of musical possibilities.

Basic Fingerpicking Pattern

Start with a simple arpeggio pattern. For example, try holding a C major chord and using this pattern:

Strings: 5-4-3-2-1-2-3-4

Use your thumb for the 5th and 4th strings, index finger for the 3rd, middle finger for the 2nd, and ring finger for the 1st. This pattern will help develop coordination and a feel for the instrument.

Advanced Patterns

Once you're comfortable, try incorporating more intricate patterns, such as alternating bass notes or adding hammer-ons and pull-offs into your picking sequences. This technique can add depth and texture to your playing.

For more advanced fingerpicking techniques, check out the resources available at Riffhard. We provide detailed lessons on fingerstyle playing that can be adapted to the requinto.

Improvising on the Requinto

Improvisation is where the magic happens. The requinto's higher pitch makes it perfect for melodic solos and improvisation. Here’s how you can get started with improvising on the requinto.

Understanding Scales

Begin with the major and minor pentatonic scales. These scales are simple yet versatile, providing a solid foundation for improvisation. Here’s a quick look at the A minor pentatonic scale, which fits nicely with the requinto’s tuning:

e|-------------------5-8-|
B|---------------5-8-----|
G|-----------5-7---------|
D|-------5-7-------------|
A|---5-7-----------------|
E|-5-8-------------------|

Practice these scales up and down the neck. Get comfortable with the finger positions and intervals. This familiarity will allow you to explore and play around with notes more freely.

Developing Your Style

Improvisation is about expressing yourself, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Try bending notes, sliding between them, or using vibrato to add emotion to your playing. Listen to different genres and incorporate elements from them into your solos.

Remember, improvisation is a skill that develops over time. The more you play and experiment, the more confident you’ll become. At Riffhard, we offer lessons by top musicians to inspire your improvisational journey and help you find your unique voice.

Playing Along with Others

One of the joys of playing the requinto is collaborating with other musicians. Its bright voice can add a beautiful layer to any ensemble. Here are some tips for playing along with others:

• Listen: Pay attention to what the other musicians are playing. This will help you complement their sound rather than clash with it.
• Communicate: Discuss the structure of the piece, key changes, and dynamics with your fellow musicians before starting.
• Be Adaptable: Be willing to adjust your playing style and volume to fit the context of the group.
• Find Your Role: Decide whether you’ll be playing rhythm, lead, or a mix of both. The requinto’s versatility allows for both roles.

Collaboration is a rewarding experience that can teach you a lot about music and improvisation in a practical context. It’s an opportunity to learn from others and grow as a musician.

Maintaining Your Requinto

Like any instrument, the requinto requires regular maintenance to stay in top condition. Here are some tips to ensure your requinto continues to sound its best:

• Keep it Clean: Wipe down the strings and body after playing to remove oils and dirt. This helps prolong the life of your strings and keeps the finish looking fresh.
• Store Properly: Keep your requinto in a case when not in use to protect it from temperature and humidity fluctuations.
• Regularly Check the Tuning Pegs: Ensure they’re tight and functioning properly. Loose pegs can make staying in tune a challenge.
• Change Strings: Regularly replace your strings to maintain a bright, clear tone. The frequency depends on how much you play, but a good rule of thumb is every 3-4 months.

Taking care of your instrument is a small investment of time that pays off in the long run with a consistently great sound and a longer instrument life.

Final Thoughts

The requinto guitar is a delightful instrument that can open up new musical horizons. Whether you're strumming along to a bolero or improvising a melodic solo, the requinto offers a unique sound and experience. And if you're eager to refine your skills, Riffhard is here to support your journey with lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists. So pick up your requinto, and let the music flow.