Si Flamenco Modulation
iv – III/II – III⁺ – II⁺ – I⁺ progression in Si minor
Si Flamenco Modulation — iv – III/II – III⁺ – II⁺ – I⁺
Modulation between Phrygian modes. The III chord of one mode becomes the II (Resolutive) of a new mode one semitone higher, creating a dramatic key shift. Granados documents this as 'Direct Modulation': E mode → F# mode via G (III of E = II of F#). Essential for concert flamenco guitar.
Playing in Si minor
B major mixes barre and open elements. The B chord itself is a barre at fret 2, but E and A are comfortable open chords forming the IV and V. The open B string rings as the root, allowing creative drone-based arrangements. B is a intermediate-level key on guitar because the open B string rings as the root and the open E strings provide the 4th — useful for sus4 voicings and drone effects. This key mixes open and barre shapes, making it a good intermediate challenge that builds fretboard fluency.
Voice Leading
The bass line moves through E to D (descending whole step), D to Eb (ascending half step), Eb to D (descending half step), D to Db (descending half step). A half-step bass movement creates a strong leading-tone pull that demands resolution. The predominantly stepwise bass motion creates smooth, connected voice leading. When the progression loops, the bass returns from Db to E by minor third.
Capo Transposition
To play in B using familiar open chords: capo 2 with open A shapes; capo 4 with open G shapes; capo 7 with open E shapes. Choose the capo position that gives you the voicings you prefer — lower capo positions produce a fuller sound, while higher positions create a brighter, mandolin-like timbre.
Scales for Soloing
B minor pentatonic is your safest starting point because all five notes are chord tones or stable tensions within the natural minor harmony. When a dominant seventh chord appears, switch briefly to B Dorian or harmonic minor to capture the raised 6th or 7th that the chord implies.
Strumming Pattern
Try a D-D-DU waltz pattern at 80-100 BPM. Accent beat 1 strongly and keep beats 2-3 lighter. For fingerpicking, use a bass-pluck-pluck pattern with alternating bass notes.