How to Play Corridos on the Guitar

Corridos are a fascinating genre of Mexican folk music, combining storytelling with simple yet beautiful guitar arrangements. If you've been curious about playing corridos on the guitar, you're in the right place. We're going to explore the unique rhythms, chord progressions, and techniques that make this music so captivating. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, there's something here for you to learn and enjoy.

The Heartbeat of Corridos: Rhythm and Strumming

At the core of any corrido is its rhythm. The strumming pattern often dictates the mood and pace of the song. Think of it as the heartbeat that drives the storytelling forward. Typically, you'll encounter a 3/4 or 4/4 time signature, which gives corridos their distinct, waltz-like feel.

Start with a basic downstroke to get a feel for the rhythm. As you get comfortable, incorporate an upstroke to create a fuller sound. Here’s a simple pattern to try out:

1 2 3 4
D D U D U

This pattern can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of the song, but it serves as a great foundation. The key is to remain consistent and let the rhythm guide your playing. Remember, the goal is to complement the story, not overshadow it.

The Chords That Tell the Story

Corridos often use a set of familiar chords, making them accessible for guitarists at any skill level. Some of the most common chords you'll encounter include:

• C Major
• G Major
• F Major
• D Minor
• A Minor

These chords create a warm, inviting sound that pairs beautifully with the narrative style of corridos. Here’s a typical chord progression you might find in the genre:

C - G - F - C

Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords. As you become more comfortable, experiment with different progressions to add variety to your playing. The more you play around with these chords, the more you'll understand how they fit into the structure of a corrido.

Adding Texture with Picking Patterns

While strumming sets the foundation, fingerpicking can add a layer of complexity and texture to your corrido playing. A simple arpeggio pattern can transform a basic chord progression into something more intricate and expressive.

Try this fingerpicking pattern with a C Major chord:

Thumb on the A string
Index on the D string
Middle on the G string
Ring on the B string

This pattern allows each note to ring clearly, creating a delicate, flowing sound. As you get more comfortable, experiment with different picking patterns to find what suits the song and your playing style best.

Storytelling Through Melody

Corridos are as much about storytelling as they are about music. To capture the essence of the genre, it's crucial to focus on the melody. Often, melodies in corridos are simple but memorable, serving as the vehicle for the narrative.

When creating your own corrido, think about the story you want to tell. Let the melody reflect the emotions and themes you're exploring. Start by humming a tune over your chord progression. Once you find something that feels right, translate it onto your guitar.

This process may take time and experimentation, but that's part of the fun. Remember, there's no right or wrong way to create a melody. It's all about expressing yourself and connecting with your audience.

Experimenting with Different Tempos

The tempo of a corrido can dramatically alter its feel. A faster tempo might convey urgency or excitement, while a slower tempo can evoke reflection or melancholy. Don’t be afraid to play around with different tempos until you find one that fits your story.

Using a metronome can be incredibly helpful when experimenting with tempo. Start at a comfortable speed and gradually increase or decrease until you find the sweet spot. The goal is to enhance the storytelling, so let the narrative guide your tempo choices.

Incorporating Traditional Instruments

While the guitar is central to corridos, incorporating traditional instruments like the accordion or bajo sexto can enrich your arrangements. These instruments add depth and authenticity to your sound.

If you don't play these instruments, consider collaborating with musicians who do. Alternatively, look for backing tracks online that include these elements. Even a simple accordion line can elevate your corrido to new heights.

Improvisation and Personal Expression

One of the joys of playing corridos is the opportunity for personal expression. Once you're comfortable with the basics, don't be afraid to improvise and make the music your own. Add embellishments, change up the strumming pattern, or introduce new chords.

Improvisation is about experimentation and discovery. It allows you to infuse your personality into the music, making it uniquely yours. Remember, the essence of corridos is storytelling, so let your imagination guide your improvisation.

How Riffhard Can Help

Although Riffhard primarily focuses on metal, the techniques and skills taught can be invaluable for any guitarist looking to expand their repertoire. With lessons from some of the best guitarists, you can improve your rhythm and picking skills, which are crucial for mastering corridos. Check out Riffhard for more resources.

Developing Your Own Style

As you become more proficient at playing corridos, you'll naturally begin to develop your own style. This is an exciting part of the musical journey, where you start to infuse your own voice into the songs you play.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different elements of the music. Try incorporating techniques from other genres you enjoy. The more you explore and experiment, the more you'll discover about your own musical identity.

Final Thoughts

Playing corridos on the guitar is a rewarding journey filled with opportunities for creativity and expression. By focusing on rhythm, melody, and storytelling, you can capture the essence of this captivating genre. And if you're looking to refine your guitar skills further, we at Riffhard offer lessons that can help you enhance your playing, no matter your preferred genre. Enjoy the journey of mastering corridos!