Dionisio Aguado’s Study in A Minor is a short classical guitar piece that develops fingerstyle coordination, smooth arpeggios, and control between the bass and upper voices.

The main challenge is bringing out the moving bass line with your thumb while keeping the higher notes flowing quietly above it.

Grab your guitar, and let’s get started.

What This Study Develops

This piece is more than an arpeggio exercise. The thumb carries a moving bass line while the fingers maintain the harmony above it. Your goal is to make the bass sound like its own musical voice instead of giving every note the same volume.

This study will help you develop:

• A steadier fingerpicking pattern
• Better coordination between the thumb and fingers
• Clearer balance between bass and upper notes
• Smoother transitions between chord shapes

How to Practice It

Start slowly and keep the arpeggios even.

Once the notes feel comfortable, give the thumb slightly more emphasis. The bass line should be easy to hear without making the upper notes sound harsh or disconnected.

Focus on control and musical balance before increasing the tempo.

Symbols Guide

The numbers next to some notes on the top staff indicate which fingers to use on the fretting hand. See the reference image below.

If any of the other markings are unfamiliar, refer to this simple guide to understanding music symbols.

Study in A Minor Sheet Music and Tabs

If you need help with the right-hand technique, see how to finger pick on guitar. Click the link below to get the complete printable arrangement.

📘 Get the free guitar practice guide here!

Want to learn more songs? Check out the sheet music with guitar tabs resource on this site.

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