All About the Portuguese Guitar
LEARN ABOUT THE FAMOUS PORTUGUESE GUITAR HISTORY IN PORTUGAL
The Portuguese guitar is a unique 12-string instrument central to Portugal’s musical traditions, especially fado. Recognizable by its pear-shaped body and distinct sound, it has played a significant role in the country’s cultural identity. This instrument is as much a symbol of Portuguese music as it is a reflection of the country’s emotional depth and artistic spirit. Its unique structure and sound have captivated musicians and listeners alike, ensuring its lasting influence in Portuguese culture.
History
The Portuguese guitar has roots dating back to the 13th century, evolving from earlier European stringed instruments like the cittern. It gained popularity in Portugal during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, eventually becoming a distinctive instrument with its own design and sound. Initially, it was played in aristocratic circles, accompanying courtly dances and chamber music. By the 19th century, the Portuguese guitar became strongly associated with fado, Portugal’s iconic genre of melancholic, emotional music. Its role in fado solidified during performances in Lisbon’s taverns and Coimbra’s academic traditions, leading to the development of two distinct regional playing styles. Over time, the instrument evolved to its current form, with steel strings and a characteristic teardrop shape, cementing its place in Portuguese culture and music.
Models
There are two main types of Portuguese guitars: the Lisboa and Coimbra models. The Lisboa model has a larger soundboard and produces a bright, resonant tone suited for lively fado performances while the Coimbra model offers a deeper, more melancholic sound. Each model reflects the musical and cultural traditions of its region. These differences in tone make each model better suited to specific styles of fado or other traditional Portuguese music. Understanding these distinctions can help you appreciate the versatility of the instrument.
Technique
Playing the Portuguese guitar requires a distinct approach due to its 12 strings arranged in six courses of two. You use “unhas,” metal finger picks worn on the thumb and index finger, to pluck the strings with precision. Unlike standard guitars, the strings are struck in pairs, often employing both upstrokes and downstrokes to create their signature shimmering sound. A key aspect of the technique is a series of quick hammer-ons and pull-offs that add expressive flourishes to melodies. Additionally, “tremolo,” a rapid repetition of a single note or phrase, is frequently used to sustain and emphasize emotion, particularly in fado. Mastering these methods demands precise timing and finger control as the fast, intricate patterns are vital to bringing out the guitar’s rich tone and emotional depth.
Lisboa
The Lisboa model is commonly used in Lisbon’s fado houses and is known for its bright, dramatic sound. Its design often features intricate carvings, reflecting the ornate aesthetic of the city. This guitar is the primary choice for performers seeking a bold and vibrant tone. Its sound mirrors the lively and passionate atmosphere of Lisbon’s fado scene. The Lisboa model also represents the city’s rich history of music and its connection to Portugal’s maritime traditions.
Coimbra
The Coimbra model, associated with the university city of Coimbra, has a more subdued and reflective sound. Traditionally used for serenades, it has a darker appearance and a lower tuning. Its sound and design reflect the academic and cultural traditions of the city. Coimbra’s melancholic fado style often conveys themes of nostalgia, love, and longing. The instrument’s tone complements the poetic lyrics and introspective mood of the region’s music.
Tuning
The tuning of the Portuguese guitar differs between the Lisboa and Coimbra models. The Lisboa guitar is tuned higher, emphasizing its bright tones, while the Coimbra guitar is tuned lower for a softer sound. Tuning is crucial for achieving the distinct characteristics of each model. This tuning system also ensures that each guitar matches the vocal ranges and emotions of the fado styles they accompany. Learning the correct tuning is an essential step for any musician aspiring to master the Portuguese guitar.
Notation
The Portuguese guitar uses a unique form of tablature notation specifically tailored to its six courses of strings. Each line of the tablature represents a string pair, with numbers indicating the fret to be played. Unlike standard musical notation, this system focuses on finger placement rather than pitch, making it easier for players to follow. Traditionally, Portuguese guitar tablature includes symbols for specific techniques, such as hammer-ons, pull-offs, and tremolos, to guide players through the expressive nuances of the music. Modern adaptations sometimes combine tablature with standard sheet music to accommodate musicians familiar with classical notation. Learning this notation is essential for performing traditional fado and other styles authentically as it captures the instrument’s intricate and ornamented playing style.
Additional Resources
This page was last updated by Marco Permunian
