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Essential guide to flamenco in Spain
Flamenco in Spain is almost sacred and, still today, the most famous Spanish art form. It’s usually very passionate, loud and sensual. From generation to generation, the legacy of flamenco is gotten across, whether it is to conserve it or for it to evolve.
Andalucía, the southern part of Spain which is flamenco’s home, has a strong musical tradition documented from ancient times and flamenco certainly takes part into that heritage. Throughout the centuries Andalucía absorbed people of different cultures and backgrounds – including Romans, Jews and Moors. The melting pot is phenomenal.
Regarding flamenco, the arrival of nomadic gypsies in the 15th century marks the introduction of new rhythms and musical instruments. And they decided to settle in the south of Spain. At the same time, both Jews and Moors were expelled from the country.
The roots of what we know today as flamenco were there…
What is flamenco?
Dancing is the most popular of flamenco’s expression forms. You surely have seen a video or a picture of a woman wearing a spectacular dress while dancing passionately.
But flamenco is more than that.
Along with singing and guitar playing, flamenco is a state of mind. It’s a powerful art that usually conveys deep emotions such as pain and sadness.
This is what differentiates flamenco and what makes it a global phenomenon – the emotion. When you see a performance, you can feel the strong bonds between the dancer, the singer, and the guitarist. The performers work as a seamless unit, often exchanging glances and interacting on stage, passing words of encouragement and praise that connect the performers and the audience.
Actually, there is also a dialogue between the artists and the audience. And the best way to experience this connection is to go to a live flamenco show. The atmosphere that is created is hard to describe.
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Where to see flamenco in Spain?
Did you know that Spain is the cradle of flamenco? Many famous artists among cantaores, bailaores and guitarists are originally from here.
On top of it, some of the most important flamenco festivals and events (e.g. the Bienal de Flamenco) take place in Spain.
Combine an authentic flamenco dancing show with the best of the city’s nightlife. From a real tablao, to some small theaters and venues, or even a flamenco bar, the possibilities are endless!
See a real flamenco show in Spain! »
The best flamenco show in Spain
Awesome!
You’ve decided to explore the world-class range of flamenco in Spain and go to a show.
You googled the best shows in Spain and… Ah! You end up with dozens of results. Who would have thought?
I know, I know, picking the best flamenco show in Spain for you can be an overwhelming task.
But don’t worry, I’ve done the hard work for you and selected the best flamenco Spain has to offer!
Discover the best flamenco show in Spain »
How to enjoy flamenco dancing in Spain
How to experience the best flamenco dancing? Spain is considered the cradle of this art. It is, without a doubt, one of the best cities in Spain to enjoy an authentic flamenco show.
So if you plan to go to a flamenco the choice of places is extremely wide…
But with so many options to choose from throughout the city finding a genuine, high-quality show can sometimes be a little tricky.
To help you stay away from the tourist traps, here are some insider information of what you should look for when choosing the flamenco show you plan to see.
How to enjoy flamenco dancing in Spain »
Take flamenco dance classes in Spain!
One of the best ways to connect with the dancing culture of Spain is by taking flamenco dance classes. Spain is famous for being the origin of flamenco, and flamenco dancing courses are becoming more and more popular. Stop being part of the audience, cross the line and get into this magic world.
The lessons help you get a greater understanding in the essential rhythms and body control involved in flamenco. The teacher supports you and adapts the lesson to your needs and level. At the end of the flamenco lessons you will know about posture and position in dance, understand rhythms and body control, lose inhibitions and gain confidence.
Book your flamenco dance classes in Spain »
Flamenco history and origins
The flamenco history started some 300 years ago. It’s said that it has roots from all the medieval cultures that inhabited Spain. Thus, it’s a dance that intermingles features from the local musical culture and many others thanks to the influences travellers brought back to Spain from the colonies.
However, it has always been linked to the Spanish gypsy community. They have been for decades the major spreading actors of this musical style within Spain, but also abroad. And they still are, the most famous virtuosos are gypsies.
Did you know that in the 1930s the most famous dance in Spain was on the verge of disappearance? Pure singing was rejected, the taste for the authentic was lost, and only superficial performances were appreciated. Fortunately, from the 1950s on it became so popular that today it is one of the symbols of the Spanish culture.
More details on the flamenco history »
The different flamenco styles
Flamenco in Spain was initially performed at family parties or among peasants, so it has naturally evolved in a myriad of styles. The list is so long only experts are capable of recognizing them all!
Every style is called palo and represents a different traditional flamenco variety. To give you an idea of how wide flamenco can be, there are more than 50 palos which, in turn, can have many variations…
Discover the different flamenco styles »
Understanding the 3 flamenco art forms
There are confronted opinions on what is the most important element of flamenco.
While some experts claim that the songs, and most particularly the lyrics, are essential, others affirm that without the introduction of the guitar, flamenco would be just too arid and harsh.
Flamenco has 3 main forms of expression:
- Cante or singing. The cantaor or cantaora is the leader of the group and marks the rhythm and intensity of the performance.
- Baile or dancing. The bailaor or bailaora is a synonym of elegance, grace and temper.
- Toque or playing the guitar. The artist ability is challenged by the cantaor who imposes the rhythm and sentiment.
Flamenco in Spain: glossary of terms
What is flamenco about? Do you know the difference between the cante grande and the cante intermedio?
The myriad of terms used to describe the music, the rhythm and the feelings related to flamenco is so wide that you should at least know a bit about the basics.
A glossary helps you to understand flamenco dancing and the importance it has in Spain. Although not exhaustive, it introduces you to some basic concepts providing either a short explanation or a translation. A must read if you plan to attend a show and know more about the subject!