Prelude 18 in D by Francisco Tarrega (1852-1909)
 Tárrega is considered to have laid the foundations for 20th century classical guitar and for increasing interest in the guitar as a recital instrument. Tárrega preferred small intimate performances over the concert stage. Some believe this was because he played without the nails needed for volume. Others say this was related to his childhood trauma. |
Notes
A lesser known Francisco Tarrega piece but still great. This song covers the entire neck from 14th fret of high e to open low D. This song introduces drop D tuning, natural harmonics and 4 finger (pima) chord pluck on the right hand. Use fingers to individualize strings on the chords.
You’ll need change the tuning to drop D. Playing chords with fingers, not strum. Triplets, (pima) pluck, harmonic
Bar 2 has a natural harmonic on the 12 fret. A harmonic is a “bell like” tone that is produced by lightly touching a string over the 12th fret.
Bar 7 and 8 (left hand)- finger position is vital in order to transition from chord to chord.
Bar 9 and 10 (right hand)- Use your fingers to pluck the exact strings/notes of the chord. Bass (thumb) is always, A if that helps.
Tune Down to Drop D. If you don’t have a turner use your D string (4th string). Don’t go too fast because the harder bits are in the middle and at the end of the song.