Class Structure
Technique – an essential beginning
The study of technique is a hugely important part of any study of movement. Technique practice builds strength, poise and confidence and gives you all the tools you need to be able to dance and interpret the dynamic expressive styles of flamenco and Spanish dance.
Flamenco
Flamenco is strongly rhythmical dance which uses the feet and hands to create powerful percussive sounds, combined with beautiful fluid arm and sensuous body movements.
A dance that celebrates all ages and body types, it is a rich combination of strength, grace, musicality and personal expression.
A bit about Flamenco
Flamenco is the expression of Andalucía and its people.
It is a dramatic form of song, music and dance which has evolved over centuries, and is particularly associated with the Gypsies who arrived in Spain from India around AD 10000.
Flamenco has been influenced by the waves of human migration through Spain’s history. It has its roots in Moorish, Jewish, Indo – Pakistani, Byzantine and Iberian folk traditions.
Constantly evolving, it has drawn further influences other musical and dance styles. It is this combination of ancient and modern that makes Flamenco so fascinating to people all around the world.
Spanish Dance
Along with Flamenco, Spain has a fascinating and rich history of dance that includes many regional folk styles and classical traditions. Spanish Dance is a mixture of these styles and creates a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue dance through to higher grades.
A skill base in Spanish Dance is highly recommended to complement development in Flamenco dance.
Laura teaches Spanish Dance though the Spanish Dance Society Syllabus. (SDS)
Classes are taught in grades with strong technique and clear progressive development up to advanced and teacher levels.
The Spanish Dance Society is the world’s largest not-for-profit society for the advancement of Spanish Dance in all its forms. Founded in 1965, it is now taught in more than a dozen countries on five continents including Spain. It aims to promote interest in the art of Spanish Dance, pursuing excellence in presentation, execution and instruction. Examinations are conducted annually in each centre by external examiners.
www.spanishdancesociey.org
