Back to Styles Flamenco

Spain

Where passion ignites with every zapateado, and duende transforms mere movement into profound human expression.

Bulería

Time Signature: 12/8

Listen to the characteristic Bulería rhythm pattern

History & Origins

Flamenco emerged from the cultural crucible of Andalusia, where Romani, Moorish, Jewish, and Castilian influences fused into one of the world's most emotionally intense art forms. Its origins lie in the caves of Sacromonte and the intimate gatherings of marginalized communities.

The art form encompasses cante (song), toque (guitar), and baile (dance), each element inseparable from the others. What began as intimate expression of joy and sorrow evolved through the café cantante era of the 19th century into a global phenomenon.

Central to Flamenco is the concept of "duende" – an untranslatable term describing the moment when performer and art become one, when technique transcends into raw, authentic emotion. This pursuit of duende drives every palmada (hand clap), every jaleo (shout of encouragement), and every soul-stirring movement.

Signature Moves

Master the essential steps of this tradition

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Rapid foot percussion
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Zapateado

Complex rhythmic footwork patterns

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Flowing arm work
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Braceo

Elegant arm movements and positions

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Delicate hand movements
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Floreo

Wrist rotations and finger positions

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Dramatic spinning
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Vuelta

The iconic Flamenco turn

Famous Ensembles

Legendary groups keeping the tradition alive

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Compañía Antonio Gades

Madrid Est. 1978

Legendary company that brought Flamenco to world stages

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Ballet Sara Baras

Cádiz Est. 1998

Contemporary Flamenco powerhouse led by iconic bailaora