Spanish Dance Rhythms
Compiled by Flora Krasnoshtein
Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section
Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish Dance
at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera,
Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
1
Table of Contents
HISTORY OF SPANISH DANCE ........................................................................................................ 4
Bailes Folkloricos .............................................................................................................................. 5
Flamenco ........................................................................................................................................... 5
Escuela Bolera .................................................................................................................................. 5
Classical Spanish Dance ................................................................................................................. 5
TRADITIONAL REGIONAL SPANISH DANCES (BAILES FOLKLORICOS).................................. 6
Jota Aragonese ................................................................................................................................. 6
Sardana ............................................................................................................................................. 7
Muñeira .............................................................................................................................................. 7
Zambra............................................................................................................................................... 7
Bolero ................................................................................................................................................. 8
Fandango........................................................................................................................................... 8
Paso Doble ........................................................................................................................................ 9
Spanish dance style ...................................................................................................................... 9
Ballroom style ................................................................................................................................ 9
FLAMENCO ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Video Examples of Selected Flamenco Styles............................................................................. 11
Mix of Different Flamenco Pálos (Rhythms) ............................................................................. 11
Alegrias ........................................................................................................................................ 11
Bulerias ........................................................................................................................................ 12
Caña ............................................................................................................................................. 13
Caracoles..................................................................................................................................... 13
Fandangos ................................................................................................................................... 14
Farruca ......................................................................................................................................... 14
Guajiras........................................................................................................................................ 15
Malagueña ................................................................................................................................... 15
Martinete ...................................................................................................................................... 15
Peteneras .................................................................................................................................... 16
Seguiriyas .................................................................................................................................... 16
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
2
Solea ............................................................................................................................................ 16
Tangos ......................................................................................................................................... 17
Tarantos ....................................................................................................................................... 17
Tientos ......................................................................................................................................... 18
Zambra ......................................................................................................................................... 18
Flamenco-themed Films by Carlos Saura .................................................................................... 19
SEVILLANAS ...................................................................................................................................... 20
SOURCES........................................................................................................................................... 22
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
3
HISTORY OF SPANISH DANCE
Disclaimer: The content in this section is written in my own words and/or paraphrased from the website
content cited in the source below.
Source: http://www.enforex.com/espanol/cultura/historia-baile-espanol.html
When people hear “Spanish dance”, in their mind they immediately picture images of a
strumming guitar, stomping heels and bright costumes. While they right away connect
Spanish dance to flamenco, the latter is only one part of what constitutes Spanish
dance, and originates in the southernmost region of Spain, called Andalucia. There are
many different regions in Spain, and each has its own traditional dance or dances,
which together make up the tapestry of the long history of Spanish dance. How many
people imagine a visit to Spain, and to hear the sounds of bagpipes and tambourines?
Yet, this is the music that accompanies the traditional Spanish dances in northern
Spain.
The distinction between the different musical genres started to occur in the fifteenth
century. Free and public dances gained their popularity, and serious and measured
bailes (dances) became outdated. During the Renaissance, popular and folk dancing
continued to develop in the history of Spanish dance, gaining international
recognition. These were developed as regional dances which were used to create new
styles by either performing them alone or mixing with other dances. This mix and match
contributed to the development of a variety of regional dances. In Catalonia region
alone there are over 200 different traditional dances.
During the Baroque period the Gypsies arrived in the Iberian Peninsula. The popularity
of their music, song and dance – flamenco – grew and joined the history of Spanish
dance, becoming both a national and international sensation. As flamenco became
more popular, the popularity of regional dances plummeted. This decline of regional
dances became more pronounced during the twentieth century, when the dictator
Franco banned all regional traditions ― dancing, music and languages were among
them. However, in today’s Spain, there has been a renewed pride and practice of
traditional regional Spanish dances, and they are here to stay.
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
4
Spanish dance encompasses a variety of styles, and can be divided into four
categories:
Bailes Folkloricos

Traditional folk dances that originate in different regions of Spain each having
unique costumes, instruments and props. Their origins are diverse, and include
Greek, Phoenician, Celtic and Moorish influences. Examples are Jota de Aragon
from Aragon, Muñeira from Galicia, Sevillanas from Seville, Reja from Granada,
and Tanguillos from Cádiz.
Flamenco

The art of Spanish Gypsies (gitanos) with its expressive, fiery intensity has strong
Arabic, Jewish, Byzantine, Egyptian, Moorish and East Indian influences.
Traditionally flamenco is improvised and danced solo, however when adapted to
theatre it can be choreographed for individuals and groups. Percussive footwork
(taconeo) is an essential element of flamenco. The props used in flamenco
include Córdoban hats, fans, shawls, and bata de colas (dresses with a long
train).
Escuela Bolera

This style of classical dance dates back to the eighteenth and nineteenth
centuries, and was influenced by the ballet from that period. Danced in soft
shoes, it combines classical ballet elements with Spanish arm movements and
castanets.
Classical Spanish Dance

This style combines flamenco footwork and folkloric steps with Classical Spanish
music, and was first introduced in Spanish operettas (zarzuelas). The props used
in classical Spanish dance include fans, shawls, and bata de colas (dresses with
a long train). Original choreographies are produced to the music of composers of
classical Spanish music such as de Falla, Albéniz, and others.
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
5
TRADITIONAL REGIONAL SPANISH DANCES (BAILES FOLKLORICOS)
Disclaimer: Paraphrased from the English translation of the original Spanish content.
Source: http://www.enforex.com/espanol/cultura/historia-baile-espanol.html
Jota Aragonese
This traditional dance originated in northern Spain, particularly Aragon. It is fast-paced;
couples dance with arms held over head while playing castanets. The dance has the
Arabic influence, probably because its origin is attributed to an Arab poet who was
expelled from Valencia in the twelfth century.
Video Examples of Jota
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idIidx2dYI0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maZhWn4IHKg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5Ew9_wU64o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XAimVzXiu0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLwZgZXv0VY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CansCohXdWs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSkPj1eIykM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_DOipPSmKk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maZhWn4IHKg
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
6
Sardana
Danced in a group; several couples hold hands and dance in a closed circle in this
traditional Catalan circle dance.
Video Examples of Sardana
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGqoYk_cuBQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZH9Cwr-yyo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKirU_LycB4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukhYNgXJ-nY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhK0BIZoyac
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGnV1vGzMyw
Muñeira
Danced in either pairs or solo to the sound of bagpipes. This "Danza del Molinero"
(miller’s dance) is typical of Galicia and Asturias.
Video Examples of Muñeira
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlCrFXjRfVE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2lD0PH971g
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLzlD6PRgR8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4OZOYr11bg
Zambra
The Zambra was originally an Arabic dance, but with the reconquest of Spain by the
Catholic Monarchs, Arabs were able to keep this dance adapting to the customs of
Spanish dance.
Video Examples of Zambra Flamenca
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rz7AN7ehP-U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKCo97vxfT4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sS3GZYrvjw
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
7
Bolero
One of the oldest and most traditional dances in the history of Spanish dance, the
bolero is a fast dance with sudden pauses and turns.
Video Examples of Traditional Bolero
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrS6a-x4wHM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0NBbOGEnvo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7mHPFvSsxc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb7UBhYTEEQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXEwY5e_eHY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkR2zq0maa8
Video Examples of Escuela Bolera Style
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_Z3uTIETng
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2ljI2Wqzgc
Fandango
At one time it was one of the most famous dances of Spain; the fandango is a merry
and animated dance, danced in pairs.
Video Examples of Fandango
Extremaduran traditional folk dance by Folk Esemble 'Tierra de Barros'.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-ZMOX2WveQ
Interpretation of a folk dance that originates from Majorca.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xGGkKQNXMs
Other Fandangos from various regions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cX-RjvoUtbk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky3NZq6tZ7M
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Xzu_NzIVxo
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
8
Paso Doble
A Spanish march associated with bullfighting; quick one-step dance (2/4 time or 2
beats per measure musical phrase).
Video Examples of Paso Doble
Spanish dance style
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uy8gOaQKX3M
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bt1bOQ20V3M
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Do0sXgiKoE
Ballroom style
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGvyix_esxo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGHd9Q79ACU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9t4mDV3HtE
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
9
FLAMENCO
Disclaimer: The content in this section is written in my own words, based on my own experience, as well
as the sources cited at the end of this document.
Note: Flamenco is not just one “dance” or “dance style”. While each flamenco style has its own, fixed
musical signature and sound, the guitar compositions and choreographies are infinite.
Flamenco, originating in Andalucia, the region in the South of Spain, is not one rhythm
or one dance style but an umbrella under which many rhythms fall. Examples of some
flamenco rhythms or pálos: Alegrias, Bulerias, Fandangos, Farruca, Guajiras,
Malagueñas, Martinete, Petenera, Romances, Solea, Seguriyas, Tangos, Zambra,
zapateado, and many many more. Essentially there is no flamenco without singing
(cante), and everything is build around the song and its musical structure and mood.
The song (cante) came first, then dance (baile), and the guitar (toqué) was added last.
The rhythms are varied, and are based on a song (cante) style which is further
subdivided into 3 categories: deep/serious (cante grande or cante jondo), intermediate
(cante intermedio), light/lively (cante chico). For example, alegrias and bulerias fall
under the cante chico category, fandango to cante intermedio, and petenera, solea,
seguiriya to cante jondo. Within each style, there is a variety of lyrics organized by
verses. These verses can be mixed and matched to form a new song within a particular
flamenco style or adapted to a different style . Some verses sung for bulerias can be
adapted to be sung in a solea style (both styles are based on a 12-beat musical phrase
compás or musical phrase.
Based on the cante, from which dance developed (if one is dancing a choreography to
the solea, it would be based on the song sang in a solea style (lyrics various); in
addition to the guitar, other instruments are now used in contemporary flamenco
including cajon (percussive drum), flute, violin, and piano.
Any of these flamenco rhythms can be performed with a singer and guitarist only, or
with guitar and dance accompaniment, or all three. Originally, flamenco was purely
improvisational form, danced to a structure of a particular cante in an intimate
atmosphere of a club among close family and friends. However, gaining popularity and
worldwide appeal, flamenco numbers are choreographed for stage performances in
large theatres.
In November 2010, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO), declared flamenco as a World Heritage Treasure ― one of
the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
10
Video Examples of Selected Flamenco Styles
The flamenco rhythms presented below are just a “tip of the flamenco iceberg”, and only
used as an example to illustrate a mosaic of rhythms that flamenco encompasses.
There are many more rhythms with distinct musical structure and rhythmic character,
but they are beyond the scope of this presentation.
Mix of Different Flamenco Pálos (Rhythms)
Video Examples
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXqiN4XTIiA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCca6d2ceI0
Alegrias
Cheerful style; the finale of Alegrias is usually Bulerias (see below); musical
structure 12-beat compás (musical phrase). Other related rhythms are Romeras,
Cantiñas, Mirabrás and Caracoles. While all Alegrias have the same musical
phrasing, there are differences in the structure of a song and style of dance
between Alegrias originating from different parts of Andalucia. Alegrias from
Cádiz differs from Alegrias from Córdoba, Seville or Jerez.
Video Examples of Alegrias
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCGDv8GVKZY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUJd53z9Y4E
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQCS-JXGFPs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51rYuCOBDl4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRdHKjJwSoI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cz1hfI7sneU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uW_DpxCyX9s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bp7mxTDfytI
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
11
Bulerias
Fast, energetic, playful, festive style, usually the “life of the party”; may be danced to the
accompaniment of different patterns of rhythmic clapping (palmas) and/or encouraging
shouts (jaleós); musical structure 12-beat compás (musical phrase).
There are different styles of Bulerias, depending on the place of origin. For example, the
Bulerias de Jérez is a particular style originating from Jérez de la Frontera. This style of
Bulerias is different than that from Seville, Córdoba, etc., but the musical structure is the
same; usually danced and sang in festive social settings, and at the end of shows
usually referred to as Fin de Fiesta (end of the party).
Video Examples of Bulerias
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDPkkND9pPQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZY92PU4fMIM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwraEHtxMA8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHd63vKcwJo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKogmNGkGHE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJQ_7hjCPgA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qw2z955DXZA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_96EyYvF1Y
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWfE7YiBzMg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CY4AP2nKFR8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aPv05XAT-U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThhMhoAbKGM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vi9PtffjUo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQ-ie12Eqck
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GP3Gho5qe4Y
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6SaEwJ0ABw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=960VBZ_DhTw
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
12
Caña
Serious, solemn rhythm; the finale of Caña is usually Bulerias (see above); musical
structure 12-beat compás (musical phrase); belongs to the Solea family.
Video Examples of Caña
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaRi2A6iPaY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTx0ZpYey7U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zhBNtDjC_8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fHU3gtl3Ew
Caracoles
Belongs to Alegrias family; musical structure 12-beat compás (musical phrase); danced
with a fan (women). Shawl can be used to accentuate the choreography. The
movement of the fan resembles snails (caracoles).
Video Examples of Caracoles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4HePguwAn0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egmcVqrhU9w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIjdxkYP168
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVroCy_yN6U
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
13
Fandangos
Danced in flamenco or classical Spanish style with castanets, not to be mistaken with
traditional regional fandangos that are danced in pairs; musical structure 12-beat
compás (musical phrase); different fandangos exist based on songs from different
regions including Alosno, Granada, Huelva and Lucena.
Video Examples of Fandangos
15 different song styles of Fandangos de Huelva
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJYvwSEnQs0
Fandangos de Huelva danced in flamenco style
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzkuKoG0KK4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAyYJy7EIdE
Fandangos de Huelva danced in Classical Spanish Dance style
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HV0GTW5d52Q
Farruca
Masculine dance, with its prominent zapateado (footwork) originally performed only by
men, but now also danced by women (usually performed in pants); musical structure 8beat compás (musical phrase).
Video Examples of Farruca
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OJT3GebUgg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDvmpIMA64k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFYAlpHg3io
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Cmw8E9yP4g
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
14
Guajiras
Guajiras have a Cuban flavour as Spanish brought it from Cuba back to Spain. Usually
danced with a fan (women); musical structure 12-beat compás (musical phrase).
Video Examples of Guajira
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgitRq_0410
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAzpF7I9dRI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxSf9SJdXa4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhc5QaiwNyw
Malagueña
Originated from the old fandangos de Málaga. Like the fandango, the musical structure
of malagueña has many variations.
Video Examples of Malagueña
Dance
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ru-Gu-jSKpg
Song
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vaTm2xUtPs
Martinete
Serious, solemn rhythm; musical structure 12-beat compás (musical phrase); related to
Seguriyas (see below), in both only 5 of 6 beats in half the phrase are accented.
Sometimes canes are used to accent the rhythm. Originated from the sound
blacksmiths made when hitting the hammer against the metal.
Video Examples of Martinete
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUiHJJuGu10
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7mp8cdxl_k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZlUmfgikvs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJVqifHGK04
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
15
Peteneras
Slow, general mood of sadness, usually danced with a shawl; musical structure 12-beat
compás (musical phrase).
Video Examples of Peteneras
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2cjb56hW84&list=RDq2cjb56hW84#t=23
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AwZe2plSXk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJoBmy12CMo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f67igtrSZLE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZx8XS1jXok
Seguiriyas
Serious, solemn rhythm; musical structure 12-beat compás (musical phrase), related to
Martinete (see above), in both only 5 of 6 beats in half the phrase are accented.
Video Examples of Seguriyas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njoiyUez3U8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZ4P4trxWPo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yu-gwHQmtXw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PTPw5Y4n2k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eXK-4w-_zY
Solea
Serious, solemn rhythm; musical structure 12-beat compás (musical phrase); the finale
of Solea is usually Bulerias (see above).
Video Examples of Solea
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHA1NC3KWFE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LqbyPf5hU8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZErj4L9-Q6s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19Y5ZFKkSF0
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
16
Tangos
Light to Intermediate mood rhythm; musical structure 8-beat compás (musical phrase).
Also referred to as tangos gitanos or gypsy tangos, it is important to note that they were
not influenced by the tango argentino. Tango gitano originated in Cádiz, Seville, Jérez
and Málaga. Various styles of song exist based on the region of origin (e.g. Tangos de
Málaga, Tangos de Triana, Tangos de Cádiz, etc.).
Video Examples of Tangos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GQ-tJUhMvs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzF8v0wdBjY
Video Examples of Tangos de Málaga (i.e. from Málaga)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WF20KHIGMUU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENeTjH1KzBs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxeAWxlpBok
Video Examples of Tangos de Triana (i.e. Tangos style originating from Triana,
a flamenco neighbourhood in Seville)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx8xHHsM3is
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7WFwh2FPT8
Tarantos
Video Examples of Tarantos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QH-oOcH5U84
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iq06L1NLXPc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vJBrwN0EWU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ya5MZ1bRVi8
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
17
Tientos
Related to Tangos (i.e. tangos gitanos), but slower and more serious; the finale of
Tientos is usually Tangos; musical structure 8-beat compás (musical phrase).
Video Examples of Tientos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbHfsRTmlJo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3qjz-RVPU0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VonO9yRMdFM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfqdkgO696o
Zambra
The Zambra was originally an Arabic dance, but with the reconquest of Spain by the
Catholic Monarchs, Arabs were able to keep this dance adapting to the customs of
Spanish dance.
Video examples of Zambra Flamenca
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rz7AN7ehP-U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKCo97vxfT4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sS3GZYrvjw
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
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Flamenco-themed Films by Carlos Saura
Spanish filmmaker, Carlos Saura, has dedicated his career to directing flamencothemed films, among others. Here are just a few examples of films directed by Saura:
 FLAMENCO and FLAMENCO FLAMENCO and FLAMENCO HOY depict a
variety of flamenco rhythms presented as song, dance or both.
 IBERIA takes the viewer on a journey across the Andalucia with its various
regional dances, flamenco styles and Classical Spanish dance. Based on the
music by a Spanish classical composer Isaac Albéniz (1860-1909), who wrote
Suite española consisting of musical pieces representing different regions of
Spain (e.g. Granada, Cataluña, Sevilla, Cádiz, Asturias, and others).
 SALOME presents flamenco and Classical Spanish dance with a Moorish
flavour.
These films give a viewer a snapshot into the diverse world of flamenco ― song, dance,
guitar, and rhythmic clapping ― and its numerous styles and rhythms.
FLAMENCO (1995) (full-length film)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCY5MfA3E5Y
FLAMENCO FLAMENCO (2010) (no full-length film is available; selected scenes
are presented below; the rest can be found on YouTube)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNcKVJsUkUI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHDgO8A9bBo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uk6xK0Zpc5c
FLAMENCO HOY (2009)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fi9h4-iMH6k
IBERIA (2005) (full-length film)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ek88VfrnRMM
SALOMÉ (2002) (full-length film)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlwvRAyhr1A
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
19
SEVILLANAS
Sevillanas are derived from the Spanish court dance, Seguidilla. Sevillanas are not
flamenco, but can be danced in a “flamenco style” vs. its usual classical style. It is
usually danced in partners. There are many different songs and styles of dancing the
Sevillanas, but the fundamental structure is the same. One Sevillanas consists of four
verses, and each verse has distinct set of dance steps.
Video Example of Seguidilla which gave rise to modern day Sevillanas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkLageI4QJE
SEVILLANAS (1992) by Carlos Saura
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGznRbZ1cMo
FLAMENCO HOY (2009) by Carlos Saura
Watch Sevillanas at 13:43
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fi9h4-iMH6k
SALOMÉ (2002) by Carlos Saura
Watch Sevillanas with a Moorish flavour at 58:16
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlwvRAyhr1A
IBERIA (2005) by Carlos Saura
Watch Sevillanas 1:22:04
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ek88VfrnRMM
Sevillanas Boleras
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkWfD_TrXtI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OB-Kr39NZmk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OgXSQbtBNc
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
20
Sevillanas are danced at parties and Ferias (Fairs) in Spain
(e.g. Feria de Abril en Sevilla (April Fair in Seville); Feria de Caballo en Jerez in May
(Horse Fair in Jerez in May)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzJhfo1dVDw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diWUBcCt7oQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m--2fQW-j48
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0r4p4LyIY28
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63rGynQY5A4
Dancers compete in Sevillanas contests and student shows
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJDD9pPc8jg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v7-irkk_gg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEbnzllRfu0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hrj90K2kXA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtoKvF2wDiU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlpiSUp9T8A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98xK3dXV0iE
And, in Andalucia, even horses dance Sevillanas!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5uyd8quV-w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdAp6g_ZpN4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMHEjGjT5gA
For more information on Regional Spanish Dances, Classical Spanish Dance,
Flamenco and Sevillanas, please consult the internet and YouTube for an
abundance of information which is beyond the scope of this presentation.
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
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SOURCES
1. Flamenco: Gypsy Dance and Music from Andalusia [Paperback]. Edited by Claus
Schreiner. Amadeus Press, Portland, Oregon. 1990.
2. Song of the Outcasts: An Introduction to Flamenco (Hardcover with CD) by Robin
Totton. Amadeus Press, Portland, Cambridge. 2003.
3. Flamenco A to Z
http://www.radiole.com/especiales/enciclopedia_flamenco/introduccion.html
4. Flamenco World
http://www.flamencoworld.com/magazine/about/que_es_flamenco/indice11112004.htm
http://barcinodesigns.com
®2014 Flora Krasnoshtein. Senior Dance Judge, Skate Canada-Central Ontario Section. Student and performer of flamenco and Classical Spanish
Dance at the Academy of Spanish Dance in Toronto, Ontario, and Jérez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain (1997–present)
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