During your language trip to Spain, LEC felt like telling you about flamenco. Let’s get started!
Andalusia for your language study trip to Spain?
A Spanish word with a disputed etymology—some experts believe it derives from a common noun meaning “flamingo,” while others argue that it comes from the word for “flame” — flamenco is the name given to the folk songs and dancesof Andalusia, a legendary region where you may have the chance to stay during your language study trip to Spain.
The diverse and varied influences of flamenco
Ask any flamenco lover to tell you about the origins of this art form, and they’ll trace it back to prehistoric times; to this, influences from Sumerian migration were added, followed by Arabic chants, Jewish music, and, of course, the Gypsies. Is flamencoeclectic? That’s the least you could say!
Singer, dancer, and guitarist
This traditional genre, a delightful blend of Gypsy and Andalusian folk elements, has spread throughout Spain. Three performers convey their passion through flamenco:
- the singer (cantaor)
- the dancer (bailarín)
- the guitarist
Flamenco singing…
Flamenco singing can be easily categorized as follows:
- cante jondo, or deep singing
- the cante grande, or grand chant
- the cante chico, or "little song"
… and flamenco dance
The dance, meanwhile, is accompanied by the human voice. If you could only remember one word from your language study trip to Spain regarding flamenco, remember this one: duende —it’s the spirit of inspiration that drives the dancer!