The braguinha (or four-string braguinha ) is a traditional musical instrument from the island of Madeira . It belongs to the family of plucked string instruments and is similar to the mandolin or cavaquinho , the latter being more widely known in Portugal and Brazil.
The term "braguinha" probably comes from the Minho region (northern Portugal), where a similar instrument was called "braga" in reference to the city of Braga , in northern Portugal. The braguinha, introduced to Madeira by Portuguese sailors, is believed to have evolved in the rural areas of Madeira and the Minho region, with a small size and a distinctive high pitch. The suffix " inha " in Portuguese means a diminutive, which can be interpreted as "small braga" or a small cavaquinho .
The braguinha is often played with a plectrum . Smaller and lighter than the classic cavaquinho , it has a bright and piercing sound. It is used mainly in folkloric contexts, especially in Madeira's traditional festivals . It is often accompanied by the Portuguese guitar or other string instruments in Madeira's popular music ensembles.
In the 19th century, this instrument was taken by a Madeiran emigrant to Hawaii, where he founded a music store. It was later renamed the "ukulele" (in French, "jumping flea"), and became one of the icons of that country and one of the most famous musical instruments in the world.
