The Andalasian Cadence is one of the most popular flamenco chord progressions that’s also used in popular songs worldwide. Just a four chord progression with a noticeable descending bass line, cadencia andaluza can be heard in well-known songs like “Hit the Road Jack.” The famous ukulele instrumental piece Body Surfing by Herb Ohta uses it in the key of G minor. I am introducing this cadence in 3 Chord Thursday to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on 1st May 2025.
Paid subscribers to 3 Chord Thursday have access to the two-page PDF. I will be sharing the score on screen in the one-hour Zoom session.
Besides the basic chord patterns for the four chords Am, G, F, and E7, there are other chord shapes. It’s worthwhile familiarizing with the following diagrams.
There are endless possibilities to solo on this four chord progression. Check out my reduction of “Body Surfing” by transposing the original key to this key of A minor.
I’ve run out of time to elaborate the different ways to have fun with the Andalusian Cadence and create melody lines, as I’m giving a class at the library today.
Pick! Pluck! Play!
“Cadencia Andaluza Por Favor” is targeted at the first level of the book “Pick! Pluck! Play!” but it may be a better fit in level two.
The last page “Ukulele Chords” of the new book contains a table of ukulele chord diagrams ordered alphabetically for the chords used in the book.
I’m thrilled about releasing these books as a precursors (prerequisite) to the 12 Chinese Zodiac Suite, which contains three skill levels.
I am recording all my new compositions in the 100 Days of Ukulele 2025 project. To me, this challenge means uploading a new video recording of a new piece each consecutive day from 1st March to 8th June 2025.
For other recent compositions and arrangements by Anne Ku, please visit the Daily Music Writing Project or scroll through the consecutive blog posts.
