Construction

Flamenco guitars differ from classical guitars and produce a more percussive sound which is perfectly suited to this most dramatic of performance arts. It is impossible to know, however, whether the instruments evolved to complement the music and dance or if the music evolved because of the nature of the instruments.

The bodies of Flamenco guitars are often smaller than those of classical instruments. They are lighter and have a shallower neck and lower bridge. The action is of course dependant on the luthier who has made the concert Flamenco guitar. Cypress is often used to fashion the sides and backs as is traditional, but today its limited supply makes it an expensive wood. In the 21st century some luthiers began using maple and pear wood and these materials are still used today but produce a softer sound with more sustain. Spruce is favoured for the soundboards as it produces a clear, focussed sound and is both stiff and light in weight. There are also many fine examples of cedar topped concert Flamenco guitars too.

There is a variant of the Flamenco guitar which is called the Flamenca Negra. These beautiful models are built in a similar way to other Flamenco instruments but feature rosewood backs and sides. These guitars have a sound which is somewhere between that of a traditional cypress piece and a classical guitar. They are favoured by Flamenco soloists rather than those who tend to play as part of an ensemble.