This melodic minor key sevillanas makes for a good picado and left hand position switching workout. You’ll notice in the transcription that open strings are used to make position shifts smoother and easier, for example in the salida and the first four bars of the tercio. These notes could be played at higher fret positions, but by using the open strings you give yourself time to make the left hand position shifts while the open string is being played.

Bass Harmony

This sevillana uses open bass strings to create a simple two-part harmony: A, D, and E complement the tercio melody. As noted in the tab, be sure to let these strings ring. You may also find it useful to use the “next” bass note as a thumb rest. For example, after you play the A in bar 16, let your thumb rest on the D until you play it in bar 18. This not only sets up your next bass note, it provides a steady “anchor” for your right hand while you play the picado lines.

As always—and whatever else you do—be sure to watch your compás: remember, your count is 1 2 3 1 2 3. For a detailed analysis of the sevillana form, see the Sevillana Accompaniment article here on Ravenna Flamenco.