Vihuelas

Vihuela can refer to two instruments: the traditional Spanish vihuela from the 15th century and the modern Mexican vihuela. The Mexican vihuela is common in mariachi groups, and is similar in structure and tuning to a standard guitar.

A modern Mexican vihuela has five strings, and the modern vihuela tuning is A-D-G-B-E, with the A, D, and G strings tuned an octave above the guitar. The historical Spanish vihuela, which was popular in the 15th century, had either five or six strings, tuned G-C-F-A-D-G or C-F-B♭-D-G-C.

Though it is tuned to the same notes as a standard guitar, the Mexican vihuela strings are tuned higher, giving it a distinct tenor sound. This helps it pair well with the lower sound of a Spanish guitar. Because it is most commonly played with the fingernails or finger picks rather than the flesh of the fingers, it has a bright, clear sound when played. Some say its sound lies somewhere between a ukulele and a nylon-string guitar.

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