The jarana huasteca, jarana de son huasteco or jaranita is a string instrument. It is most often called simply jarana. It is a guitar-like chordophone with 5 strings, tuned in thirds (low to high): G, B, D, F# and A. It has a range similar to the mandolin,[1] and a scale length of around 40 cm.

Jarana huasteca

Jarana huasteca
String
Other names	Jarana de son huasteco, jaranita
Classification	String instrument
Hornbostel–Sachs classification	(Composite chordophone)
Developed	Mexico
Related instruments
Huapanguera

The instrument usually forms part of the trío huasteco ensemble, along with the quinta huapanguera and violin, taking on the role of the rhythmic accompaniment.

Compared to the guitarra huapanguera, the instrument is smaller and higher-pitched.

References

• INAH (1988). Atlas Cultural de México. Música. México: Grupo Editorial Planeta. ISBN 968-406-121-8.