Evidence from late 19th century suggests that the machete (small
4-string guitar) was played with the RH thumb, or mainly with the
thumb. I can't remember any other instrument to be played like this.
Various methods of play were suggested in the 17th century for the
mandore: a sort of dedillo, a quill, a quill somehow glued to the
finger, as well as simply with the fingers.
Playing with the thumb seems satisfactory for simple tunes - although
thirds sound a bit odd. In fancier music, in faster moving lines there
is sometimes a sign which might indicate an upstroke. But would that
mean an upstroke with the thumb? (as Wes Montgomery may or may not have
used!) Or perhaps thumb-index... 16th century style.
Here's a simple tune. Porto Santo is an island near Madeira. Guide books
suggest a visit to Porto Santo when on holiday in Madeira. The crossing
is over 2 hours and it's the Atlantic.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2BJeH4LJd8
Stuart
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