Ronroco Musical Instrument Facts

Ronroco Guitar Description

The Ronroco is a traditional string instrument from the Andean region, known for its deep, resonant sound. Played by strumming or plucking the strings, it is a key instrument in Andean folk music.

It is similar to the charango but larger and typically features 10 strings arranged in five courses.

Detailed Instrument Facts and Description

Instrument Name	Ronroco
Instrument Family	String
Alternative Names	The ronroco is also known as “charango ronroco” or simply “ronroco” in various regions of South America.
Geographical Presence	The ronroco is primarily played in the Andean regions of South America, including countries like Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, and Chile. It has also gained popularity in other parts of the world due to its unique sound and use in contemporary music.
Instrument Classification	The ronroco falls under the Hornbostel-Sachs classification system as 321.321, identifying it as a plucked chordophone. This system classifies musical instruments based on how they produce sound, with the ronroco classified as a chordophone where sound is produced by vibrating strings.
Unique Features	The ronroco is known for its larger size compared to the charango, and it features 10 strings arranged in five courses. It has a distinctive bowl-shaped back, traditionally made from an armadillo shell or carved wood, which contributes to its rich, resonant sound. The instrument’s deep tone and extended range make it a unique addition to Andean music.
Sound Characteristics	The instrument produces a deep, warm, and resonant sound. Its tone is richer and fuller than that of the smaller charango, making it ideal for both melodic and harmonic roles in music. The instrument is known for its ability to produce intricate fingerpicking patterns and rhythmic strumming.
Typical Music Genres	The ronroco is primarily used in Andean folk music. It is also found in contemporary Latin American music, as well as in world music and fusion genres, adding a unique tonal color and depth.
Main Components	Body, Neck, Fingerboard, Strings, Tuning Pegs, Bridge, Soundhole
Construction	The ronroco is traditionally made with a bowl-shaped back, either from an armadillo shell or carved wood, and a wooden top. The neck is typically made of wood, and the fingerboard is often made of hardwood. The strings are usually made of nylon or metal, contributing to the instrument’s distinctive sound.
Size and Weight	The size of the ronroco varies, but they typically range from 60 to 70 centimeters (24 to 28 inches) in length. The weight can vary between 1 to 2 kilograms (2.2 to 4.4 pounds), depending on the materials used.
Variations and Customizations	Variations of the ronroco include different sizes and materials for the back and top. Customizations might include decorative carvings, inlays, and various types of wood for different tonal qualities. Some modern ronrocos may also feature electronic pickups for amplification.
Instrument History	The ronroco has its origins in the Andean region, evolving from the smaller charango. It gained popularity as a distinct instrument in the 20th century, becoming an essential part of Andean folk music ensembles. The instrument has continued to evolve, with modern luthiers experimenting with different materials and construction techniques to enhance its sound.
Similar Types of Instrument	Charango, Ukulele, Mandolin
Playing Technique	The ronroco is played by strumming or plucking the strings with the fingers or a pick. Techniques include fingerpicking, rhythmic strumming, and using various strumming patterns. Proper technique involves fretting the strings with the left hand and plucking or strumming with the right hand to produce clear, resonant tones.
Notable Composers	Gustavo Santaolalla, Jaime Torres, Ernesto Cavour
Famous Works	Santaolalla’s “De Ushuaia a La Quiaca,” Torres’ “El Cóndor Pasa,” Cavour’s “Imillita”
Maintenance	Regular maintenance includes cleaning the instrument, tuning the strings, and occasionally replacing strings. The ronroco should be kept in a case or on a stand to protect it from environmental changes and physical damage. Proper humidity levels should be maintained to prevent cracking of the wood.
Learning Difficulty	Moderate; requires coordination to manage strumming and finger techniques simultaneously. Learning proper hand positioning, chord structures, and music reading are essential for effective playing.
Prominent Players	Gustavo Santaolalla, Jaime Torres, Luzmila Carpio
Notable Performances	Notable performances include concerts by prominent ronroco players at major venues and festivals worldwide, such as the Festival del Charango and various Andean music festivals.
Famous Orchestras/Bands	Prominent ensembles featuring the ronroco include Los Kjarkas, Inti-Illimani, and Gustavo Santaolalla’s projects.
Price Range	Ronrocos range from $200 to $2,000 or more, depending on the craftsmanship, materials, and features. Beginner models start around $200, while professional models with custom features can exceed $2,000.