How to Use Middle Fingers with Castanets

Using the middle fingers when playing castanets can be fun, because when they are played with two fingers rather than all in a roll, it has a more definite, emphatic sound. This article will help you get started.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Work first with middle fingers of both of your hands when playing the castanets. You can alternate going back and forth: "right-left-right, left-right-left, right-left-right, left-right-left."

2. Hold your hands in the way that's most comfortable for you. You can hold your right hand above your left in front of you, with your elbows bent. However you hold your castanets, always keep the backs of your hand to the audience.

3. Play a roll with your right hand while playing only with the middle fingers of your left hand. You'll start with the pinkie of your right hand first, the ring finger, the middle finger, the pointer, then the middle two fingers of your left hand. The middle two fingers of your left hand will emulate a heartbeat.

4. Work on the speed of your roll with your right hand, so it gets faster and faster—a contrast to the steadiness of the middle two fingers of your left hand.

5. Move your arms from side to side and play your castanets with the middle fingers of your hands. As you swing your arms down, your hands extended, clap the castanets before moving your arms to your other side.

6. Use the middle fingers of your hands to play the castanets with emphasis. They mark a change in pose, or a change of emotion in the music.

Resources

• Yvette demonstrates playing the castanets with the middle fingers
• Flamenco Export examines flamenco playing.