Flamenco is a complex and very dynamic musical and dance art form. Born in the southern region of Spain called ANDALUCIA, it was created by an amalgamation of many different cultures that were and still are residing in Spain: G
Flamenco is a complex and very dynamic musical and dance art form. Born in the southern region of Spain called ANDALUCIA, it was created by an amalgamation of many different cultures that were and still are residing in Spain: Gitanos (Roma/gypsies), Arabs, Jews and Spanish Caucasians. It is believed that flamenco was born around 1774 when it was first recorded in literature, the "Cartas Marruecas" of Cadalso. Some of the very first Flamenco schools were created in Cádiz, Jerez de la Frontera and Triana (famous neighborhood in Seville). For many years the art remained known only within Spain until some of Spain's greatest performers presented their work internationally around 1869-1910...exploding with passion, pain, incredible speed and sensitive artistic expression...International audiences began to stand-up and take notice of this unbridled, innovative form of expression. Some timeless and highly respected artists such as Carmen Amaya (Gitano dancer 1913-1963), Camaron de la Isla (gitano cantaor / singer 1950-1992) and Paco de Lucia (flamenco guitarist 1947-present day) are honoured by both flamencos and non-flamencos. Today some of the more modern performers are following in the footsteps of the older masters such as: Tomatito (flamenco guitarist), Andres Marin & Eva la Yerbabuena (dancers) and Estrella Morente (cantaora/singer).
Flamenco is very popular all over the world - in Japan, U.S.A, South America, Israel, Germany, France, Italy, Australia and Canada! It is still very much alive, growing and evolving in Spain where many people from all over the world go to study flamenco each year.
Break-down of Flamenco Elements