History of the Flamingo Dance

Flamenco dance includes, at times, with castanets.

Flamenco dance has multiple influences, but has its roots in the Andalusia province of Spain; it is often associated with Gypsy culture. Over so much time, the exact details of its history have been lost, but there are clues that provide an outline.

The origin of "Flamenco"

No one knows exactly where the word, "flamenco" came from. One theory is that it originated in the 1500s with Flemish courtiers during the reign of Spain's Charles V. Some say that these courtiers wore garish and conspicuous clothing with begged a comparison to brightly colored flamingos, hence "flemenco." Another theory postulates that "flamenco" was a mistaken term for nationality given to the Gypsies by the Flemish. As Arabic culture is thought to have contributed to flamenco music and dance, some say that the word comes from the Arabic, "fellah mangu", which means "The laborer who sings."

Historical Influences

The Pyrenees mountain range separates Spain from mainstream European culture, making its folk music unique. Over centuries of population from conquerors, the Andalusian area of Spain has had many cultural influences. In the very beginning there were Hindu dances and the threnodies of Greek mourners, in addition to mimes of Imperial Rome. When Jews migrated to Spain during the Roman Empire the chanting from their synagogue services contributed to local music. In 711 A.D., a Moorish warrior conquered Spain, bringing Arab influences that lasted for 800 years. A Moorish stringer introduced a five-string lute that eventually became the Spanish guitar. The Gypsies arrived in the 15th century and condensed all of these influences into a definable type of music and dance.

Development

While its origins date back to ancient times, it wasn't until the beginning of the 18th century that flamenco really came into its own. Throughout the 19th and 18th centuries, it grew and flourished. The peak of popularity was between 1875 and 1900. Almost every Andalusian town had a cafe with resident Flamenco performers. The well-known singers were Gypsies, with only a few exceptions.

Flamenco Characteristics

The sound of Flamenco combines, acoustic guitar, emotional singing, chanting, dancing and staccato rhythm, which is done with hand clapping and/or castanets. The guitar and this clapping rhythm set the stage. The hand clapping in Flamenco is not just any hand clap. There is a very specific way that the hands are brought together to create the clearest and loudest clap possible. The dancer waits and allows the music to affect her mood before beginning. Flamenco dance is improvisational, and is meant to express the emotions of the moment. The word is duende. Bright colors and full, long swing skirts are worn and their movement contributes to the dance.

Where to see Flamenco today

Much of Flamenco that is performed within and outside of Spain is a cheap imitation of the real thing. There are many performances that are given for the benefit of tourists. The Spanish say they lack duende, the emotional driving force behind the dance. The best place to see authentic Flamenco performances is in its area of origin. Andalusia has many festivals throughout the spring and summer where Flamenco is performed in the streets, by the locals and by professionals.

References

• The Inquisitive Traveler: Flamenco

Resources

• Spanish Fiestas: History of Flamenco Dancing