Re Flamenco Modulation
iv – III/II – III⁺ – II⁺ – I⁺ progression in Re minor
Re 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 Re minor
D major is one of guitar's most resonant keys. The open D string acts as a droning root, and the open A string provides the fifth. This gives D-based strumming a wide, ringing quality that flatpicks and fingerpicks love. D is a beginner-level key on guitar because the open D and A strings provide a powerful bass foundation, and the open high E is the 2nd scale degree adding brightness. Beginners will find this key approachable since most chords use open voicings with minimal stretching.
Voice Leading
The bass line moves through G to F (descending whole step), F to F# (ascending half step), F# to F (descending half step), F to E (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 E to G by minor third.
Capo Transposition
To play in D using familiar open chords: capo 2 with open C shapes; capo 5 with open A shapes; capo 7 with open G 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
D 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 D 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.