Flamenco

Think of Spanish music and one of the first things to come to mind is flamenco.
But what is flamenco?

Los duendes del flamenco (the magic of flamenco) is impossible to describe, but when you see it in a performance you know it – and it is special.

All human feelings can be expressed through flamenco; as well as stories told – maybe of a day picking olives or of the grand emotions of love, passion, despair. Life is here, death is here – some say that flamenco is the music of the outcasts of Andalucian society.

The origins of flamenco are not clear; the role played by the gypsies is important, but there have been several other early influences. Many cultures and civilisations have occupied Spain and are reflected in the folk songs and local dances, which in turn have become part of flamenco. What is clear is that the birthplace (and many say home) of flamenco, is Andalucia.

Initially, it seems to have been purely vocal – accompanied by the clapping of hands. Composers later introduced guitar playing and flamenco developed in the cafes candantes (music cafes) during the second half of the 19th century. The deep expression of feeling (cante jondo) also dates from that time. Dance became an attraction for the public in the cafes, developing to take its place alongside the guitar music.
From 1915, flamenco shows were played and organised all over the world and for the past 50 years high quality dancers, musicians and soloists have been involved – some of whom have become world famous artistes.

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