Golpe (guitar technique)

The golpe (Spanish for "hit" or "tap") is a percussive technique used primarily in flamenco guitar playing. It involves striking the soundboard of the guitar, typically with the fingers or fingernails of the right hand (the hand that also plucks the strings).

The golpe serves several purposes:

• Rhythmic Accentuation: It adds a percussive element to the music, emphasizing the rhythmic drive and complexity characteristic of flamenco.
• Imitation of Percussion: The golpe imitates the sounds of other percussion instruments common in flamenco, such as the cajón (a wooden box drum).
• Ornamentation and Expression: It can be used to create subtle rhythmic variations, embellishments, and expressive effects within a flamenco piece.
• Synchronization with Dance: In flamenco performance, the golpe often serves as a vital cue and rhythmic anchor for the dancer (the bailaor/bailaora).

The specific sound and application of the golpe can vary greatly depending on the player's technique, the type of guitar, and the musical context. Some guitarists use a single, strong golpe to punctuate a phrase, while others employ rapid-fire golpe patterns to create complex rhythmic textures. A golpeador, a thin plastic or wooden tap plate, is typically affixed to the soundboard of the guitar to protect it from wear and tear caused by the repeated striking.