THE FLAMENCO GUIDE
From the sound & movements to expert show reviews
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Top Attractions in Spain
The rich art form of flamenco has been ever evolving for the past 200 years. It combines influences from the vast crossroad of cultures that have converged in Spain, and in particular, the southern region of Andalusia. As a result there are an endless number of flamenco palos (styles).
This folkloric music tradition relies heavily on emotion, passion and duende. Song (“cante”), dance (“baile”) and guitar (“toque”) are the most basic expressions of flamenco. They are traditionally performed on a wooden stage known as a tablao. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Continue on with our guide to learn all about the fundamentals of flamenco and don’t forget to see a live show when you’re in Spain. You won’t regret it!
DUENDE: FLAMENCO'S MYSTERIOUS FORCE FLAMENCO PALOS (STYLES) TABLAO: THE AUTHENTIC FLAMENCO VENUE FLAMENCO INSTRUMENTS
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Although its exact origins are open to debate, it seems clear that flamenco was born in Andalusia. It is believed to have originated from the Roma music that the gypsies (“gitanos” in Spanish) brought with them when they migrated to Spain from northern India (9th to 15th centuries).
Over the centuries, it mixed with the Jewish, Moorish and Christian cultures that occupied Spain, creating this unique art form that we now call flamenco.
Did you know? In 2010, flamenco was declared one of the Masterpieces of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
One of the most characteristic elements of flamenco is what is called duende. This concept represents the emotion and the passion on the performance. It occurs when the performer is “in the zone” and reaches a state where they are overcome by the emotion and passion of the performance.
DUENDE: FLAMENCO'S MYSTERIOUS FORCE
There are many different genres of flamenco which are called palos (bulerías, sevillanas, fandangos, etc.). However, all flamenco songs fall into one of the following three categories:
Tablaos are the traditional venues celebrating flamenco performances. They are characterized by their small size and intimate atmosphere. With the audience very close to the stage and no need for amplification, the result is a pure and authentic flamenco experience.
TABLAO: THE AUTHENTIC FLAMENCO VENUE
As an art that has evolved over the centuries, flamenco has been influenced by many cultures, their music and instruments.
The flamenco guitar is the most well known flamenco instrument but not the only one. Palmas (hand-clapping) and zapateado (tap dancing) are also very characteristic of flamenco.
THE MOST IMPORTANT FLAMENCO INSTRUMENTS
