‘Golpe’ is the Spanish word for ‘tap.’ This tapping sound gives unique flavor to Flamenco music, and is aided by the golpeadores, or tapping-plates. To perform golpe, make a quick flexion movement of your third finger (or occasionally, your fourth finger) of your right hand, bringing your fingernail and the flesh of your finger into contact with the golpeador.
You need to keep the movement of your finger confined to the knuckle, keeping the rest of your finger, your hand, and your wrist relaxed. Make sure that your nail and flesh hit the golpeador at the same time, for that is what produces the characteristic sound. After you hit the golpeador, keep your finger in contact with it, lifting it only at the beginning of the next stroke. Never allow your movement to become forceful.
When you reach more advanced levels, you will learn to play the golpe simultaneously with your thumb or index fingers sounding the strings.
