Flamenco Scalathon

Recognized internationally for his interpretation and fluid, yet powerful flamenco and classic guitar technique, Adam del Monte reveals his practice methods and routine for achieving greater speed in executing picado or rest-stroke scales. From a reasoned right-hand nail filing system to the proper mindset while practicing, Adam lays out an effective plan for increasing speed while retaining accuracy. Endorsed by none other than Angel Romero, this book goes a long way in erasing the seeming boundaries between flamenco and classic guitar playing styles. When rest-stroke speed is no longer an issue, a bit of authentic flamenco fire may blend into your classical technique. The book ends with three concert-level flamenco selections demonstrating the breath of Adam’s musicality and the importance of developing faster picado scales.

How did flamenco—a song and dance form associated with both a despised ethnic minority in Spain and a region frequently derided by Spaniards—become so inexorably tied to the country’s culture? Sandie Holguín focuses on the history of the form and how reactions to the performances transformed from disgust to reverance over the course of two centuries. Holguín brings forth an important interplay between regional nationalists and image makers actively involved in building a tourist industry. Soon they realized flamenco performances could be turned into a folkloric attraction that could stimulate the economy. Tourists and Spaniards alike began to cultivate flamenco as a representation of the country's national identity. This study reveals not only how Spain designed and promoted its own symbol but also how this cultural form took on a life of its own.

The essence of flamenco There are numerous villages and towns of great magnitude in Andalusia and most are crammed with historic architecture, picturesque plazas and romantic allegories, and although at first they may appear similar, each of these places has a distinctive character that sets it apart from the others. The larger towns have become merged in the life of the modern world and have left behind the village orbit that allowed them to be self-sufficing, but Utrera, a small town in the province of Seville, has kept much of its idiosyncrasy. Tony Bryant has spent many years in this town and during this time he has become acquainted with some of flamencos most celebrated performers. He gained the trust and friendship of this family in such a way that he was invited to personal family celebrations like communions, birthdays, funerals, and fiestas of all kinds, and it was during these intimate fiestas that he witnessed a flamenco way of life that few will ever get the chance to experience. This book is full of these experiences and it focuses on every aspect of the Andalusian calendar: the fair, Easter, the bullfight, the festivals, and the traditions and customs that make the art of flamenco so fascinating. There is something about Utrera, and the way of life that exists there in, that makes a unique impression, and because the gypsies have lived there for more than five-centuries, it has a characteristic that is unlike any other.

This book and accompanying video provide a thorough introduction to flamenco guitar. What are the essential elements and techniques of flamenco guitar playing? How does one capture the real essence of authentic flamenco guitar? These are questions that Juan Martin, celebrated virtuoso flamenco guitarist and teacher, addresses in this first book of a projected three-volume series. The method is designed for the complete beginner and requires no prior knowledge of the guitar or flamenco music. It also provides invaluable insight and material for more advanced players who want to capture the essential sounds, rhythms and emotional power of true flamenco. The series begins with in-depth demonstrations of how the basic building blocks of flamenco guitar technique are used in actual flamenco music. The material then progresses to a detailed exploration of the individual rhythmic forms - the palos. In this book, the fundamental palos of Solea and Alegrias are presented to emphasize the basic rhythms and provide examples of falsetas - the melodic passages. Martin then shows how to apply these when collaborating with a dancer and singer. The music is transcribed in standard notation and tablature (cifra), and the online video contain over 3.5 combined hours of explanation and demonstrations. Provides a detailed introduction to basic techniques, using examples of authentic flamenco to show these techniques in action. Then progresses to demonstrations of the Solea and Alegrias, including music for the soloist and the guitar accompanying the dancing and singing. Includes access to online video.