I have mentioned that flamenco can be not only happy and emotional but also deeply sad and serious, depending on the “palo” (flamenco music style). To put it simply, like ballroom dance can be classified into waltz, rumba or cha cha, flamenco can be divided into different palos based on criteria such as basic rhythmic pattern, mode and geographic origin.
Palos are traditionally classified into three groups:
1. Cante jondo: The deepest and most serious forms are known as cante jondo which means “deep song” in Spanish. Famous palos are soleá and siguiriyas. Because it often sings about sorrowful story like death, it is difficult for beginners to learn the group of palos.
2. Cante chico: Cante chico which means “little song” is much lighter than cante jondo. The form of cante chico displays subjects including love and happiness. Famous palos are alegrías, bulerías and tangos which are more suitable for beginners.
3. Cante intermedio: Forms which are between cante chico and cante grande are divided into cante intermedio such as tientos and fandangos.
I have learned tangos, fandangos, alegrías, tientos, siguiriyas, and so on. Among the palos I have learned, my favorite one is tangos because it is joyful. I think tango is the easiest palo, but it is still challenging for me to execute the simple moves perfectly and beautifully. Maybe the easiest thing is also the most difficult one!
I have learned tangos, fandangos, alegrías, tientos, siguiriyas, and so on. Among the palos I have learned, my favorite one is tangos because it is joyful. I think tango is the easiest palo, but it is still challenging for me to execute the simple moves perfectly and beautifully. Maybe the easiest thing is also the most difficult one!
Siguiriya---Tough I can’t understand what he sang, I can feel the sorrow.
Tangos---A flamenco style in 2/4 and 4/4 time. Tangos which is pronounced by “dango” is different from ballroom dance’s tangos.
See also
Flamenco family tree
Flamenco palos
