Rhythmic Variety

Varieties of rhythm, be they blues, waltz, or juapango, are introduced by the varied movements of the right hand. A good pattern to start with is the familiar “oom-pah-pah” of waltz rhythm.

Returning to the C chord, we will play first a single note, the fifth string, with the thumb. Then the index, middle, and ring fingers will play the top three strings together.

Here are the main points:

• First, find the notes with the left hand, and with the right hand rest the thumb and three fingers on the strings to be played.
• With the thumb, don’t let the joint bend. Push forward and upward so as to clear the fourth string. Then bring the three fingers out to clear the strings, sounding the notes with the nails as you move through.
• Once you can do the movement, play the thumb once and the fingers twice to a count of three. Emphasize the first beat (the thumb stroke) slightly more than the fingers, counting ONEtwo- three, ONE-two-three, ONE-two-three, etc.