Tres Strings

The tres, meaning "three" in Spanish, is a three-course chordophone originating from Cuba. The most prevalent version of this instrument is the original Cuban tres, featuring six strings. Its distinct sound has become synonymous with Cuban son music and is frequently utilized in various Afro-Cuban genres. In the 1930s, the instrument underwent adaptation to create the Puerto Rican tres, distinguished by its nine strings and a body structure akin to that of the cuatro.

Emerging in the latter half of the 19th century in the eastern region of Guantánamo, the tres was initially employed to perform changüí, a precursor to son cubano. Although its precise origins remain uncertain, it is believed to have evolved from the 19th-century Spanish guitar, evident in its similar shape, as well as influences from the laúd and bandola, instruments used in punto cubano since at least the 18th century. Tres playing revolves around the guajeo, an ostinato pattern prevalent in numerous Afro-Cuban music styles. Practitioners of the tres are commonly referred to as treseros in Cuba or tresistas in Puerto Rico.