Mi Taranta (Free Rhythm)
iv – III – II – I progression in Mi minor
Mi Taranta (Free Rhythm) — iv – III – II – I
Mining style from Almeria in F# Phrygian. Free rhythm (ad libitum). The cadencia andaluza Bm-A-G-F# uses characteristic added-sixth chords (A6, G6) and the tonic resolves to F#7sus4(b9). Shares the dual modal/tonal character of all fandango derivatives.
Playing in Mi minor
E major is arguably guitar's most powerful key. The open low E and high E strings ring sympathetically as the root, while the open B provides the fifth. This triple reinforcement gives E-based riffs and chords unmatched depth and volume. E is a beginner-level key on guitar because both the low E and high E strings ring as the root, and the open B is the fifth — three open strings reinforce the tonic chord. Beginners will find this key approachable since most chords use open voicings with minimal stretching.
Voice Leading
The bass line moves through A to G (descending whole step), G to F (descending whole 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 A by perfect fourth.
Capo Transposition
To play in E using familiar open chords: capo 2 with open D shapes; capo 4 with open C shapes; capo 7 with open A 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
E 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 E Dorian or harmonic minor to capture the raised 6th or 7th that the chord implies.
Strumming Pattern
Use D-DU-UDU at 100-120 BPM for a standard pop strum. Accent beats 2 and 4 for a backbeat feel. Vary dynamics between verse (lighter) and chorus (stronger) to build energy.