United Flamenco Studies

Flamenco Principles (4 Sessions)

New to flamenco? Whether you’re interested in dance, singing, guitar, percussion, or just captivated by this art form, we’ll explore the fundamentals together.

Key Features:

• Flamenco as a Whole System: Flamenco is rooted in three core pillars: singing (cante), guitar (toque), and dance (baile). To develop a functional understanding of flamenco, it’s essential to explore all three elements as a whole system.
• Flamenco Repertoire: Delve into the concept of “palos,” the diverse forms that structure the flamenco repertoire.
• Flamenco Vocabulary: Understand the “lingo” that we use to fluidly navigate the flamenco system.
• Flamenco Compás: Compás is how we say “rhythm” in flamenco—it’s the art form’s heartbeat. Keep it alive!
• Flamenco Ear and Eye Training: Knowing what to listen for and ways to observe flamenco enhances your ability to analyze, reproduce, and, most importantly, fully enjoy the art form!

The Flamenco Guide (12 Sessions)

This comprehensive class offers a unified approach to mastering the art form. Dive deep into the ecosystem of flamenco structures, language, and performance.

Key Features:

• Establish a Solid Foundation: Follow a logical curriculum that guides you through essential elements of flamenco while establishing global principles for analyzing and understanding the art form on multiple levels.
• Flamenco Lexicon: Develop a consistent language to facilitate effective communication and understanding across all aspects of flamenco.
• Compás and Cante Guide: Gain a solid grasp of the most important rhythms and styles you need to know.
• Assessment: Gain tools to assess your flamenco skills, pinpoint areas for improvement, and ensure steady progress.

With: Guillermo Guillén / Leslie Roybal

This class is the gateway to all United Flamenco programs and serves as an essential entry point. Every new participant must complete one cycle of this course, either before or alongside other class offerings.

If you have taken Comprehensive Flamenco Studies (CFS) as part of flamencoMAPS programming, this class requirement is considered fulfilled.

The Palos Guide (16 Sessions)

If you’ve completed the Flamenco Guide or Comprehensive Flamenco Studies with FlamencoMAPS and are eager to apply your knowledge by focusing in on flamenco’s core palos, then this is the course for you!

Key Features:

• Cumulative Learning: Build on the concepts established in the Flamenco Guide, applying global principles to specific palos and contexts for a deeper understanding.
• Prioritized Focus: Master the essential palos’ specificities and rules without feeling overwhelmed by the vast flamenco repertoire.
• Introduction to Cante for Non-Singers: Take the crucial step into flamenco cante, unlocking the key to true interaction and communication within the art form. You won’t become a singer, but you’ll gain invaluable insight into the essence of cante!
• Compás Exploration: Each session includes focused time to better understand, practice, and feel the compás of the palo we’re studying.

With: Guillermo Guillén / Leslie Roybal

Every participant must complete the Flamenco Guide (or the Comprehensive Flamenco Studies with FlamencoMAPS) either before or alongside other class offerings to access The Palos Guide.

Compás Workout (16 Sessions)

Mastering rhythm and compás requires dedication, commitment, and consistency—much like a regular fitness regimen! Join our weekly intensive one-hour Compás Workout to master the art of palmas, navigate the intricacies of compás, and enhance your overall rhythmic skills.

Key Features:

• Compás Mastery: Explore various compás types and their traditional palmas patterns.
• Physical Connection: Engage in practical exercises that foster immediate application and physical connection.
• Palmas Perfection: Refine your palmas technique for precision and clarity.
• Rhythmic Foundation: Develop a strong rhythmic pulse and impeccable timing.