About Flamenco

Written descriptions of Flamenco as a bona fide genre of Spanish music date back to the 18th century, when it made its first appearances in taverns and cafés. But the music of Spain's Gitanos has deeper roots reaching back to the 15th century--the time of Ferdinand and Isabella's completion of the Reconquest of Spain and the downfall of the Moorish kingdom of Granada in Andalusia.

At that time, Moors, Jews, and Gitanos alike were officially exiled, consequently forming fringe communities outside of Spain's mainstream society; over time, their musical customs merged, and what emerged were songs of deep sorrow, longing and passion--much akin to the rise of America's Delta Blues. Today, musical elements of Arabic, Gypsy, and Jewish origin can be heard and seen in the "pure" forms of Flamenco music and dance, including the Soleares, Seguiriyas, and Peteneras, and especially in the the cante jondo deep song). Later additions to Flamenco's family of over 50 palos (styles) include other folk music of Andalusia, such as Sevillanas and Malagueñas, as well as the Rumbas and Guajiras of Latin American and Cuban origin--styles that evolved in the New World in colonial times and returned to Spain many years later.

Flamenco guitar as a solo performance art is a recent trend, beginning in the 20th century with such masters as Ramón Montoya--considered by many to be the father of modern Flamenco guitar. Initially, Flamenco consisted of song and dance; later, perhaps in the 17th century, the guitar was added to provide a more rhythmic backdrop. By the 19th century, garish Flamenco shows were commonplace in Flamenco cafés. And while it is known that Gaspar Sanz, the great master of Baroque guitar, was influenced by the diverse folk musical traditions of Spain--possibly including Flamenco--the art suffered a spotted history outside of Andalusia. Only in the 20th century did it achieve widespread acceptance.

While Andalusia is truly the birthplace of Flamenco, it has found worldwide appeal -- and Flamenco traditions are now well-established in South America, Mexico, the Southwestern United States, and even Japan. With its rich multicultural appeal, its singular passion, and its ability to tap into deep, universal human truths, that comes as no surprise.