If you think of Spain, the first things that pop into your head are probably paella, bull fights, tapas and of course Flamenco. On this page of Once Upon a Bike you will find more information on flamenco.
Flamenco is originally from the southern region of Spain, Andalucia. It is a mixture of different cultures, such as the “Gitanos”, the gypsies. There exist many types of Flamenco.
The Flamenco from the gypsies consists of a lot of dancing and singing and is easier to listen to than the Flamenco from the Spanish. Flamenco from the Spanish seems more difficult to listen to and to understand.
Flamenco is about expressing emotions, from deep sadness to happiness. It all depends on the rhythm and the structure of the Flamenco. At the moment when a Flamenco singer, dancer or guitarist is getting really into the rhythms and the expression of the emotions, is known as “duende”, it is almost a magical moment. Would you like to see one of these Flamenco performances with you own eyes? Check out Flamenco performance.
Flamenco workshop
If you are planning a trip with friends, family or colleagues in Valencia, a flamenco workshop could be a fun activity. Click on flamenco workshop in Valencia for more information or to make a reservation.
The fundamental part of Flamenco is the singing, this can be leaded by music and/or dancing. Flamenco can exist of dancing, but it also of someone who claps, plays guitar or sings. Sometimes singing, dancing, playing guitar and clapping are combined or accompanied by other music instruments like violin, piano and flute.
Have a look at this short video if you would like to get an impression of a Flamenco guitarist:
