The insurgence of flamenco devotees now covers the world. Oddly, flamenco courses and studios dot Japan, having turned the dance into a popular pastime. Flamenco's origin, however, is Andalucia, which is located in Spain's Costa del Sol and where many dancers are descendants of Gypsy families.
Flamenco Basics
For outsiders, it helps to understand flamenco's three elements: the song, which is most important; the dancers, and the music, primarily guitarists. The clapping hands of the onstage performers accompany the dancers' feet. The tapping in flamenco music imitates the sounds made in a forge since many Andalucian men worked as blacksmiths. The flamenco lyrics are often impromptu and composed on stage.
Flamenco Lessons in Madrid
But the truly adventurous, or a devotee wanting to learn flamenco first hand, head to Amor de Dios, which is the oldest flamenco school in Spain. It's located on a second floor (no sign outside) and above the Anton Martin marketplace. Thirty to forty teachers, also known as masters are on the roster. Star pupils have included Sara Baras, Antonio Canales and a long list of performers.
Upon entering the school, it's the sounds that overpower. Whether castanets, a cane tapping out the beat, cajon drums being practiced, or the pounding of hundreds of flamenco feet on wooden floors, flamenco reigns. "This is an authentic experience. Nothing's changed in the many years I've come here," said Josephine from Dallas as she wiped sweat from her brow after a class.
Ideally, students contact the school to arrange lessons, however, walk-ins are not discouraged. A one-hour class costs 12 to 15 euros, although that short experience isn't recommended. Two hours of class per day for five days lowers the price to around 70 euros per week. "You must speak to a master to find your level. If you don't like him or her, you can go to another," said Javier San Juan, the son of the school's owner. "Anyone can come here. If you're a good person, you are welcome," he added with a smile and in halting English.
Obviously, it helps to speak Spanish or know it casually since all classes are given in that language. Clothing is nondescript and usually tights or long pants. "Only the shoes are the instrument," said Javier. Several shops in the area sell flamenco shoes in the 70 to 120 euro range. They are embedded with small nails at the toe and heal to enhance the impact. Most moves in flamenco dancing involve pushing down on the metatarsal. There's no brushing of the foot against the floor.
According to some students, flamenco is much more complicated than it looks. But the instructors are patient, and fellow students move along at their own pace. It's definitely smiles and kisses on both cheeks when a class is over. The ambiance at Amor de Dios (named for the street where it was formerly located) is full-fledged flamenco classes at its best.
Another school is Casa Patas Flamenco Conservatory. Its enhanced program combines teaching, research, seminars and the promotion of flamenco, singing, guitar playing and dancing.The ground floor is home to the famous Casas Patas tablao.
Where to Find Flamenco Venues in Madrid
Any day of the week, a flamenco show can be found in Madrid theatres or more intimate flamenco song and dance clubs known as tabloas. The performances are often accompanied with food and usually begin at 10:30 pm. Contact Madrid's official tourism website for venues.
Judith Glynn - I've written travel articles for years. See more and my novel about romance and travel at www.facebook.com/judglynn
