Forró — Cavaquinho

This is the cavaquinho's true home: in samba, choro and pagode it is the rhythmic and harmonic center, driving the groove with bright, percussive chords. Close-partner dancing and festive nights in Brazil's Northeast: forró has a warm swing that pulls the whole room onto the floor, from slow shuffles to breakneck tempos. Here you'll find the Northeastern vamp — best understood as a short two-chord back-and-forth that loops endlessly — and the simple I-IV-V, popular music's most traditional chord trio.

Progressions

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Updated July 9, 2026