Learn the World's Most Famous Tango on Guitar

When it comes to iconic tango melodies, “La Cumparsita” stands out as a timeless masterpiece. Composed over 100 years ago in 1916, this Argentine/Uruguayan tango continues to captivate musicians and listeners alike. In this guide, I’ll break down the A section of this famous piece, exploring its melody, chords, and the rhythmic elements that make it a tango classic. By the end, you’ll be able to play the song’s catchy theme and understand the music theory that underpins its dramatic flair.

What Makes Tango Special?

Tango rhythm is straightforward compared to other Latin rhythms. It’s typically played in 4/4 or 2/4 time and features staccato, attitude, and drama. Key elements include:

- Staccato Playing: Short, choppy notes add to the drama.
- Rhythmic Simplicity: Notes are often played on every beat (1, 2, 3, 4), with occasional syncopation on the "and" of 4.
- Interchangeability with Rumba: Tango and rumba rhythms can often overlap for interesting variations.

To capture the tango essence, focus on precision and intentionality in every note you play.

The Melody: Breaking Down the A Section

The melody of “La Cumparsita” is rooted in the key of A minor and opens with an E7 chord (E, G#, B, and D). Let’s walk through the main phrases:

1. Opening Phrase: Starts with E, D, B, and G#. These notes form an E7 chord, setting the tone with tension and resolution.
- Play: E (root) → D (7th) → B (5th) → G# (3rd).

2. Catchy Motif: A series of E, F, E, D#, and E notes create a syncopated tango rhythm.

3. Answering Phrase: Repeats the initial E note before moving up an octave to C, A, and back to E. This forms an A minor chord (A, C, E).

4. Closing Phrase: Introduces a descending line (D, A, G#, A) for added drama.

To maintain the tango’s dramatic flair, use techniques like hammer-ons, quick note dampening, and accentuating the syncopated beats.

The Chords: Simple Yet Powerful

The harmony of “La Cumparsita” revolves around three primary chords with a few optional variations:

- E7 (V7): Dominates the melody with its tension-building qualities.
- A Minor (i): Resolves the tension and provides a somber mood.
- D Minor (iv): Adds harmonic depth.

For a more advanced sound, you can incorporate:

- A7 (Secondary Dominant): Leading into D minor for a dramatic effect.
- Andalusian Cadence: Am → G → F → E7, a staple in Spanish music.

Tango Rhythm Tips

To master the rhythm:

1. Play bass notes staccato and dampen them immediately after striking. This creates a sharp, snappy sound.
2. Incorporate syncopation by adding a bass note on the "and" of 4 before returning to the root on the next downbeat.
3. Experiment with chord voicings and diminished chords to add variety.

Music Theory Insights

“La Cumparsita” beautifully blends harmonic minor and Hungarian minor scales. Key highlights include:

- Raised 7th: The G# note in A minor creates tension that resolves back to A and is technically known as the harmonic minor scale.
- Flat 5 (D#): Adds a "Gypsy" flavor, commonly found in tango music.
- Bass-Melody Interaction: The melody often outlines the chord structure, making it easier to harmonize.

Putting It All Together

Start by playing the melody and bass notes separately. Gradually combine them, adding in chords to create a fuller sound. Remember to:

- Maintain the staccato effect by dampening notes as needed.
- Use a fleshy thumb stroke for a warm, dramatic tone.
- Keep the rhythm precise and engaging.

Advanced Techniques and Voicings

For those ready to elevate their playing:

1. Diminished 7th Chords: Use these for smooth transitions and added tension.
- Example: G# diminished 7th as a substitute for E7.
2. Chord Voicing Variations: Explore different fingerings to enrich the harmonic texture.
- Example: Move triad shapes up the fretboard for new colors.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re passionate about nylon string guitar and want to dive deeper into techniques like flamenco, classical, Latin jazz, and Argentine tango, check out my course, The Ultimate Nylon String Guitar Guide. You’ll get exercises, foundational skills, and detailed lessons on the various techniques and songs that make up the world of nylon string guitar playing.

Mastering “La Cumparsita” is more than just playing notes; it’s about capturing the spirit of tango—its drama, attitude, and elegance. So, grab your guitar, dive into this classic, and bring it to life with your unique touch. Happy playing!

La Cumparsita tutorial: