Cavaquinho Scales — Standard

4-string tuning: D-G-B-D — The bright, percussive soul of samba and Brazilian choro

About Standard Tuning on Cavaquinho

The cavaquinho is a small four-string Brazilian instrument tuned D-G-B-D, producing a bright, punchy tone that drives the rhythm in samba, choro, and pagode. Its steel strings and small body create a percussive attack that cuts through percussion-heavy ensembles, making it the rhythmic backbone of Brazilian popular music.

The cavaquinho (also spelled cavaco) is to Brazilian music what the guitar is to rock — absolutely essential. In samba, the cavaquinho player provides the rhythmic centro (center) that holds the bateria (percussion section) together. In choro, it takes on a more melodic role, weaving intricate lines between the bandolim and guitar. Waldir Azevedo's 'Brasileirinho' is perhaps the most famous cavaquinho piece, showcasing the instrument's virtuosic potential. The cavaquinho is also the ancestor of the Hawaiian ukulele, brought to the islands by Portuguese immigrants.

SambaChoroPagodeMPBForró

Notable artists: Waldir Azevedo, Paulinho da Viola, Beth Carvalho, Nelson Cavaquinho, Luciana Rabello

Best for: Samba rhythm, choro melody and accompaniment, pagode, and Brazilian ensemble playing

Browse 1104 cavaquinho scales in Standard tuning. Click any scale below to view the interactive fretboard diagram.

C

C#

D

D#

E

F

F#

G

G#

A

A#

B

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