The Rajão is the most popular instrument in Madeiran folk music. With 5 courses of strings, its tuning resembles that of the first 5 strings of a classical guitar. Some argue it descends from the French guitar, which is very likely given the similarities in shape and tuning.
This makes it a very versatile instrument with a distinctive sound. About 70 cm long, it was taken by Madeiran emigrants to Hawaii, where it gave rise to the ukulele.
The most common build configurations are:
| Top | Basswood, Spruce |
| Back and sides | Mahogany, Cherry, Sycamore, Rosewood |
| Neck | Poplar, Mahogany, Cedar |
| Fingerboard | Panga Panga, Rosewood, Ebony |
| Tuning mechanism | Wooden pegs, machine heads |
Every instrument is set up in our workshop for its player. Get in touch or visit us at Rua de Santana, 37, Porto.