Flamenco music

Flamenco music was a form of expression used by the peasants and the oppressed, in much the same way that the Blues was used by American slaves. It was, and is, part of the culture of the Gypsies of Andalusia in Southern Spain. In fact the musical aspects of flamenco (principally singing and guitar playing) cannot really be separated from other aspects of this culture.

History

The exact origins of Flamenco music are unknown. While the Gypsies are generally credited with the creation of Flamenco music, its roots can also be found in Arabic, early Christian and Judaic music.

Flamenco music gained much of its notoriety in the 19th century, where it was performed professionally in drinking spots know as Cafés cantantes.

Ramón Montoya is credited with being the first performer to introduce classical guitar techniques into Flamenco music.

Rhythmic form

The basic rhythm of Flamenco music is known as compás. A compás is characterised by a recurring pattern of beats and accents. These recurring patterns make up a number of different rhythmic and musical forms known as toques.

Each toque has a distinct rhythmic signature which provides Flamenco music with its great richness. These toques are usually identified in their plural forms such as Soleares, Seguiriyas, Alegrías and Sevillanas.