1) Read the text about the International Day of Flamenco and answer the questions below
International
Day of Flamenco: 10 aspects to take into account to “understand Flamenco”.
November 16th is not just a date on the calendar; it is a day dedicated to honouring the cultural richness and authenticity of flamenco. This day commemorates the inclusion of flamenco in the prestigious UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010. World Flamenco Day has become a special occasion to celebrate and spread the unique passion of this art that transcends borders and connects hearts.
Here are 10 facts to help you get to
know the richness of this art form.
- Mysterious
origins: Although
flamenco is believed to have its roots in the gypsy culture in Andalusia,
its exact origins are difficult to trace. This mystery contributes to the
fascination surrounding this art form, leaving room for interpretation and
speculation.
- Cultural
Influences: Flamenco not only has gypsy influences, but has also absorbed
elements of Moorish and Jewish culture. This fusion of traditions has
enriched and diversified the art of flamenco over the years.
- Clapping
and Compás: In flamenco, clapping (rhythmic clapping) and compás (rhythm) are
fundamental. Performers and hobbyists not only clap to show approval, but
also actively participate in the creation of the rhythm, making the
audience an integral part of the performance.
- Exquisite
costumes: The
costumes in flamenco are as important as the music and the dance.
Traditional costumes, especially in the case of the dancers, are elaborated
colourful and richly ornamented, contributing to the visual spectacle and
artistic expression.
- Flamenco
Guitar: The
flamenco guitar, an essential component of the genre, has unique
characteristics. With a thinner soundboard than the classical guitar, it
produces a brighter and more percussive sound, perfect for accompanying
flamenco singing and dancing.
- El
Duende: “Duende” is
a difficult concept to translate, but it is essential to understanding
flamenco. It refers to the magic, emotion and authenticity that an artist
brings to his or her performance. Flamenco is not just technique; it is
the ability to transmit deep feelings.
- Tablao
Flamenco: Although
flamenco can be enjoyed in a variety of venues, from theatres to
festivals, “tablaos flamencos” are special places dedicated exclusively to
this art form. They offer an intimate and authentic experience, where
artists can connect directly with the audience.
- Cante
Jondo: This
style of singing, often called “cante jondo” or “cante hondo”, is
characterised by its emotional depth and its connection with the most
primitive aspects of human existence. It is a fundamental component
of the purest flamenco.
- Improvisation
and Spontaneity: Although
some flamenco pieces are carefully structured, improvisation and
spontaneity are key elements. Artists can surprise the audience with
unexpected variations in singing, dancing or guitar playing, creating
unique moments in each performance.
2) Choose the right answers:
- What is the significance of
November 16th in relation to flamenco?
- A) It marks the birth of a
famous flamenco dancer.
- B) It is International
Flamenco Day, celebrating flamenco's cultural richness.
- C) It is the anniversary of
the first flamenco festival.
- D) It is the date when
flamenco was first performed.
- What year was flamenco included
in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of
Humanity?
- A)
2005
- B)
2010
- C)
2015
- D)
2020
- Which cultures have influenced
flamenco, according to the text?
- A)
Only gypsy culture
- B) Gypsy, Moorish, and Jewish
cultures
- C)
Latin American cultures
- D)
Mediterranean cultures
- What role does clapping play in
flamenco performances?
- A) It is only for showing
approval.
- B) It is a way to create
rhythm and engage the audience.
- C) It is a signal for the
performers to take a break.
- D) It is used to indicate the
end of a performance.
- Why are costumes important in
flamenco?
- A) They are used to tell
stories.
- B) They are a visual spectacle
and enhance artistic expression.
- C) They serve to identify
different flamenco styles.
- D) They are necessary for the
musicians to perform.
- What is unique about the
flamenco guitar compared to a classical guitar?
- A) It has a thicker
soundboard.
- B) It produces a softer sound.
- C) It has a thinner soundboard
and a brighter sound.
- D) It is played only during
festivals.
- What does "El Duende"
refer to in the context of flamenco?
- A) A specific type of dance.
- B) A technical skill in
playing guitar.
- C) The magic and emotion an
artist brings to their performance.
- D)
A traditional flamenco song.
- What
are "tablaos flamencos"?
- A)
Festivals celebrating flamenco.
- B) Special venues dedicated to
flamenco performances.
- C) Types of flamenco dances.
- D) Styles of flamenco guitar
playing.
- What
is "cante jondo"?
- A) A type of flamenco dance.
- B) A style of flamenco singing
characterized by emotional depth.
- C)
A flamenco instrument.
- D) A form of flamenco costume.
- How do improvisation and
spontaneity feature in flamenco performances?
- A) They are not allowed in
flamenco.
- B) They create unique moments
in each performance.
- C) They are only used in
guitar playing.
- D) They are reserved for the
audience's participation.
