FAQ

About the Cuatro

Music is a universal language that comes in many shapes and forms, allowing you to exercise your mind, body, and soul within the comfort of your own home. While many enjoy listening to music, playing it with a subliminal instrument takes the experience to another level.

Congratulations on choosing the Cuatro as your medium for musical self-expression and for creating an incredible sound that impacts music lovers of all kinds. We are pleased to introduce you to the sounds of the Cuatro and to explore its origin, how to play it, what you can do with it, and how its rhythms tie into historical moments carried on through the legacy of the instrument.

Learning Outcomes

The purpose of this course is to provide detailed insight into what the Cuatro is, including its origin and how it has evolved as a musical instrument. We will indicate what you should look for in a Cuatro, including how it’s made, what materials are used, and the types of Cuatros available. Additionally, we will provide an introduction to what you can do with the instrument and how it is similar yet different from its cousins. You will also learn how the courses are set up and how you can progress as a Cuatro player.

Recommended Background

No prior experience is required. Start afresh and get to know the instrument that has captured and changed the lives of many.

Explore more about the Cuatro

The Cuatro is an instrument that used to be taught from generation to generation. The grandfather would teach the son, the son would teach the neighbor, and the neighbor would play for his family. It is our goal as Cuatro players to offer the teachings of this incredible instrument not only to all those who are interested but worldwide. Learning about the Cuatro is the first step in the journey into the world of this four-stringed marvel.

Frequently Asked Questions

• A New Kind of Sound – The Electric Cuatro
  As with other musical instruments, a new age of innovation and interpretation by modern luthiers and artists has made possible upgrades for this instrument. Out of this has come to fruition a new kind of instrument called the Electric Cuatro. This type of Cuatro replicates the sound and tuning of a traditional Cuatro but differs in its manufacturing process, as it doesn’t have a hollow body, but a solid one instead. In this article, we are going to be talking specifically about the Electric Cuatro. She’s… Read more: A New Kind of Sound – The Electric Cuatro
• Accompaniment Vs. Soloist
  Accompaniment instruments and music are fantastic for either strumming away in your free time or playing in a band as an accompaniment or soloist musician. This can be seen as a more basic or intermediate way of playing the Cuatro. Here you combine chords and strums to form excellent interpretations of songs and genres. Again, there are different levels of music; you will be able to explore these as you go along. Adrián Toro Accompanying For plucking strings, you will find tabs with which you can… Read more: Accompaniment Vs. Soloist
• Are there live lessons in TuCuatro?
  Our previous sessions have been met with great success and there is growing anticipation for more! These live lessons are interactive, engaging, and aimed at helping students learn various genres of music, such as salsa or folk music, on different instruments like the Venezuelan Cuatro. Unlike other online courses where you may feel isolated in front of your computer, our live sessions offer a unique opportunity to interact with one of our renowned cuatristas who will take you step by step through the selected topic allowing… Read more: Are there live lessons in TuCuatro?
• Can I play Ukulele songs with a Cuatro?
  If you are a Cuatro player, you might want to try a few new songs and might find that most of the lyrics websites have chords for Ukulele, instead of a Cuatro. For this reason, it is typical for the Cuatro player to learn how to play Ukulele songs with a Cuatro, learning how to transpose all chords to be able to play the songs in the same tuning as the original version. When you play an Ukulele song with a Cuatro the resulting sounds can… Read more: Can I play Ukulele songs with a Cuatro?
• Cuatro: String or percussion instrument?
  The answer, BOTH! Many string instruments can be played by making specific strums or hitting the wood. For most instruments, this is optional, but the Cuatro needs this kind of love! There is nothing like strumming regularly in combination with dry strums (known as chasquidos or frenados) and knocking on a specific area of the Cuatro known as the “golpeador” or fingerboard. This is the part of the Cuatro which is reinforced with another kind of wood that can withstand impacts. It also forms a key feature… Read more: Cuatro: String or percussion instrument?
• How can I buy a Cuatro at our TuCuatro Store?
  There are so many choices out there, and it’s mostly knowing what to look for and more importantly, where to look to buy a Cuatro. One of the reasons the Cuatro may be limited in making its appearances on stages around you is because of the availability of the instrument. Typically the instruments are made by luthiers in South America and the only way of getting one is if you go there yourself. Pretty far fetched for a musical instrument where you have others in your… Read more: How can I buy a Cuatro at our TuCuatro Store?
• How do I know if a Cuatro is good?
  Before buying an instrument, it is critical that you assure that the quality of the instrument is good enough and that it tunes correctly in all frets. Our teachers and musicians are constantly helping customers at the TuCuatro Store by reviewing each instrument to guarantee the quality of the sound.  One of the most used tests is the “fretboard scan” which consist of playing the instrument up to the 17 frets to guarantee that it tunes properly The Cuatro shown in this video is a Cedar… Read more: How do I know if a Cuatro is good?
• How do I start learning the Cuatro?
  Learning a new musical instrument can be daunting, but it can also be highly rewarding. If you’re interested in learning to play the Cuatro, a traditional Latin American stringed instrument, there are several ways to get started. Here is a guide on how to explore playing the Cuatro: Get a feel for the Instrument! Before getting started with any instrument, you need to familiarize yourself with it and its characteristics. The good news is that the Cuatro is relatively easy to distinguish as it has a… Read more: How do I start learning the Cuatro?
• How does the Cuatro stringed musical instrument sound?
  The Cuatro is a four-string musical instrument, a distant cousin of the guitar, which has evolved in the regions of Colombia and Venezuela. There are many relatives of the Cuatro as several string instruments have changed from the first guitars brought by the conquistadores in the 14th century. We will mention some more information about related instruments (Ukulele, Banjo, Cuatro Mandolin, etc.) in future modules. What makes the cuatro a unique musical instrument The uniqueness of the Cuatro is found within its ability to be a… Read more: How does the Cuatro stringed musical instrument sound?
• How long does it take to learn to play the Cuatro?
  There is a learning curve for every instrument, cuatro, guitar, ukulele, etc.. It does take time to familiarize yourself with the style of play. A common question is how long does it take to learn to play the Cuatro? Well, the answer is: It is entirely up to you! The most dedicated students who practice daily have the best results, no matter which instrument they play. It could be the cuatro, guitar, bandola, mandolin, or any other instrument, if you dedicate sufficient time to practicing, you’ll… Read more: How long does it take to learn to play the Cuatro?
• How to choose a musical instrument: classifications at TuCuatro
  It could be tricky to choose a musical instrument from a variety when you have to consider so many factors, like the type of woods, the quality of work of a manufacturer, the sound that the instrument produces, etc.  That’s why we want you to know how we’ve divided the type of instruments that we offer at our TuCuatro’s Store. This is an internal classification that somehow has become the standard when talking about a Cuatro. Learn how we think about the Cuatro and how we… Read more: How to choose a musical instrument: classifications at TuCuatro
• I Don’t Have a Venezuelan Cuatro and Have No Clue How To Get One
  If you do not have one yet and don’t have an idea on how to get a cuatro, we are here to help. The Cuatro is a folkloric musical instrument that has seen a rise in popularity in the past two decades. More musicians than ever are playing the instrument, and we’re there for the whole time. Our musicians and cuatro players, born and raised in the cuatro culture, have been able to witness this change. We know this musical instrument head to toes. Our team… Read more: I Don’t Have a Venezuelan Cuatro and Have No Clue How To Get One
• Is the cuatro only used in South America?
  The Cuatro is a fascinating instrument that has made its way into the hearts of many music lovers globally. While it is commonly known for its use in South American folk music, it is gradually finding a place in other parts of the world as well. Today, we explore some exciting interpretations of music played on the Cuatro from across the globe. Japanese Musicians Playing Gaita Music is an art form that transcends geographical boundaries, and this is evident with Japanese musicians playing Gaita tunes. As… Read more: Is the cuatro only used in South America?
• Learn to Play Ukulele: How Long Does It Take & Best Tips for Beginners
  No matter the musical instrument, there is a natural learning curve. Mastering the Ukulele is no different; It will take time to master the chords, strumming patterns, and essential fingerpicking techniques. But how long will this process take? And how can you make the most of your practice time to have fun and make progress quickly? In this post, we will explore these questions and provide tips and resources for learning the Ukulele most efficiently and enjoyably as possible. From the different sizes of Ukulele available… Read more: Learn to Play Ukulele: How Long Does It Take & Best Tips for Beginners
• Musical Instruments Relatives of the Cuatro: Exploring the World of Stringed Musical Instruments
  The Cuatro is a beloved Venezuelan stringed musical instrument that has captured the hearts and ears of music enthusiasts across the globe. But did you know that many other instruments can be considered relatives of the Cuatro? In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of stringed musical instruments, exploring some of the most popular cousins of the Cuatro, including the Ukulele, Banjo, Mandolin, and Charango. Ukulele: A Hawaiian Interpretation The Ukulele is an instrument with its roots in Hawaii but has gained great popularity… Read more: Musical Instruments Relatives of the Cuatro: Exploring the World of Stringed Musical Instruments
• Parts of the Cuatro
  Get to know your Cuatro. This lesson explains the different parts of the Cuatro. It is essential to be able to describe your instrument and also to get to know it. Each Cuatro has specific characteristics and attributes. By using these features, you will be able to orientate yourself on your instrument. So if on the 8th fret there is a crack or a spot of wood which has a different color, you can use that as a reference. Know the instrument you play and love… Read more: Parts of the Cuatro
• Popular artists using the Cuatros
  There are popular composers and famous artists for the Cuatro. These are slightly different, and most of these persons have some sort of affiliation with Venezuela. The most famous being Simon Diaz who has brought incredible masterpieces such as Caballo Viejo (international versions derived from this song are The Gypsy Kings “Bamboleo”) who brings the sound from the Venezuelan lowlands on a global scale. In the image below you see him presenting pope Jean Paul II with a Cuatro. Gualberto Ibarreto also shares a familiar role… Read more: Popular artists using the Cuatros
• The Cuatro – A Unique Instrument with Reentrant Tuning
  There are not many instruments with a reentrant tuning in this modern world. Probably because of the influence of the modern guitar where all the strings are tuned ascendant and all other instruments follow. However, many centuries ago, instruments with reentrant tuning were extremely popular, and they were used in many songs from where we still have notation. One such instrument is the Cuatro, a four-stringed instrument that originated in Venezuela. What makes the Cuatro unique is its reentrant tuning, which sets it apart from other… Read more: The Cuatro – A Unique Instrument with Reentrant Tuning
• The History of the Cuatro Guitar Instrument
  The Venezuelan cuatro has its origins in Europe. The history of this beautiful instrument started many centuries ago with the expansion of the popularity of the Spanish Guitar, an instrument that used to have four strings. The Spanish Guitar traveled to South America and was transformed into many different instruments that now are part of folk music in many Latin American Countries. Besides the Spanish Guitar, there are many similar instruments throughout history, like in Egipt or some European and African countries that have used four-stringed… Read more: The History of the Cuatro Guitar Instrument
• The Modern Cuatro
  New Teaching Methods The Cuatro is no longer an instrument people keep hanging on their walls as an adornment. It is an instrument admired by many and has specific characteristics. The Cuatro player also has certain features. The Cuatro player is persistent, agile and can play from a nice and simple accompaniment to a soloist song with radical changes. All in good time of course! Aside from this, there are new teaching methods and a wide range of resources available for learning how to play the… Read more: The Modern Cuatro
• The TuCuatro Methodology
  As a musician, you are likely always looking for ways to improve your skills and learn new techniques. One great way to do this is by taking online courses that cover a wide range of topics related to your instrument. These courses can be a great way to learn at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home. Our online courses offer a comprehensive curriculum for a variety of instruments. The courses are typically divided into sections or modules, each containing 2-4 lessons.… Read more: The TuCuatro Methodology
• What is a Cuatro? Stringed Musical Instrument
  What is the Venezuelan Cuatro? Originating from the plains shared between Venezuela and Colombia, the Venezuelan cuatro is a string musical instrument. It holds a special place in the heart of Venezuela as the national instrument. The Cuatro is prominently used in Joropo, a folk music style popular in the plains, but it also finds use in various other regions of Venezuela. In addition to Venezuela, the instrument can also be found in some Caribbean islands, including Aruba and Trinidad & Tobago, where it is used… Read more: What is a Cuatro? Stringed Musical Instrument
• What is TuCuatro? Learn instruments like Cuatro, Ukulele and even Guitar Online
  TuCuatro is a portal where interested students can learn how to play the Cuatro and other instruments like guitar online. Starting as an initiative by Venezuelan Cuatristas, we have dedicated ourselves to assisting and facilitating persons from all nationalities with a means to learn to play Cuatro. As a team, we are made up of Cuatristas, innovators, and e-learning specialists who have dedicated the teachings of all aspects of the Cuatro. At TuCuatro we have the exclusive objective of creating the most extensive interactive manual for… Read more: What is TuCuatro? Learn instruments like Cuatro, Ukulele and even Guitar Online
• What kind of music is traditionally played with the Cuatro?
  The Cuatro is a versatile musical instrument that can be used in various music genres from different regions of the world. Traditionally, it is used as an accompaniment to the harp and maracas, forming the core of the Joropo genre, which is a piece of typical folklore music originating from Colombia and Venezuela. Joropo is further divided into sub-genres such as San Rafael and Gaban. These sub-genres have unique elements, such as rhythm and melody, which students learn in detail in TuCuatro’s courses. The Cuatro’s distinctive… Read more: What kind of music is traditionally played with the Cuatro?
• What types of Cuatros are available and who makes them?
  The quality of the Cuatro (as for any musical instrument) has a direct impact on the sound and smoothness during playing. There are exceptions to the rule, as you can get some incredible sound out of lesser quality Cuatros. It is only once you get into playing and try a Cuatro of higher quality than you will notice a significant difference. So, if you are starting with a relatively cheap Cuatro, you may wish to consider upgrading quickly as you will appreciate the change! Cuatros are… Read more: What types of Cuatros are available and who makes them?
• What’s the difference between an Ukulele and a Cuatro
  So you discovered an instrument called Cuatro and probably know about its resemblance to the Ukulele. The similarities are indeed numerous, but there’s a spectacular difference: In contrast to the Ukulele, the Cuatro’s fourth and last string is tuned to an octave lower, almost as low as the first string. This allows for a wider range of melodies and solos to be played on the Cuatro, and gives the instrument a deeper, more vibrant sound. The Cuatro is worth exploring if you are interested in trying… Read more: What’s the difference between an Ukulele and a Cuatro
• Where is the Cuatro played?
  Historically, Colombia and Venezuela…..recently WORLDWIDE!! The Cuatro, a four-stringed instrument originating from Venezuela has gained immense popularity over the years. While it is traditionally played in Venezuela, Colombia, and other Caribbean countries, modern artists like Jorge Glem and Carlos Capacho have presented its possibilities on an international level. As a result, the intoxicating sounds of the Cuatro have spread worldwide. Colombia boasts the second most considerable number of cuatro players globally, with many musicians playing this beautiful instrument to create their unique sound. After Colombia, the… Read more: Where is the Cuatro played?
• Yes, You Can Learn Ukulele as an Adult! Tips to Get Started
  Ever thought about picking up the ukulele but worried you’re “too old” to start? Maybe you think you won’t have enough time to practice or it’ll be too hard to learn a new instrument. We’re here to tell you—none of that’s true! It’s never too late to start learning, and the ukulele might be just the thing to brighten your day. Why the Ukulele is Perfect for Adults The ukulele is a fantastic choice for adults wanting to learn an instrument. It’s one of the most… Read more: Yes, You Can Learn Ukulele as an Adult! Tips to Get Started
• You can begin learning to play the Cuatro instrument!
  If you are entirely new to the Cuatro as a string instrument, before you play any song, the recommendation is always to start from the very beginning of the music theory. The first lessons and courses provided at TuCuatro are the very basics of how to play, what to look out for and getting the hang of the most basic techniques you need to know. You’ll learn how to strum the cuatro and techniques to play your first rhythms, be rock, pop, ballads, waltz or more… Read more: You can begin learning to play the Cuatro instrument!