Student resource page... Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
~ Can anyone learn Flamenco?
Yes, no matter what age, if your feelings are stirred and it reaches your heart, then you must do it and enjoy the benefits it brings your way. This is why flamenco is also known as arte jondo (deep art), because it goes deep into one's feelings. See What is Flamenco and Why Flamenco to better understand the complexities.
~ How long does it take to learn?
Depends on your ability and dedication. If you have some previous dance background in another dance form, then it may be easier to pick up the technique. It will most likely take several weeks or months to get the idea, and several years of study and practice to master the complex art form.
~ What do I wear?
For dance, women wear a loose flowing skirt and firm shoes with sturdy heels. Men wear trousers and boots with sturdy heels. See classes for more detailed information on class attire.
~ Where do I buy the dancewear, shoes...?
Students may purchase flamenco practice skirts and "amateur" flamenco shoes locally or online. However, once a student has made the commitment to Flamenco dance, they will want to invest in a pair of "professional" flamenco shoes from a flamenco source which Jackie will recommend. See classes for where to purchase dance items.
~ How do I register for lessons?
If you're interested in taking one of Jackie's classes, you will need to register before your first lesson. See register/contacts for details.
~ Where are the classes held?
Jackie teaches at two dance studios in Kirkland, Wa. She also teaches private lessons upon requests. See classes for locations.
~ What is the distinction between the different flamenco forms called palos?
The rhythmic structures and verses are different. Some palos follow the 12 beat structure, and can be full of counter beats. Sevillanas has a set pattern as a folk dance in 3/4 time, while others follow a 4/4 or 6/8 beat structure.
~ What is compás?
The rhythmic structure and basic requirement of all flamenco. When learning one rhythm, you will find that others have similarities, yet are different in their accents and intention. See The Flamenco Compas Forms Palmas or handclapping help keep time, and takes practice to develop an ear for the rhythmic patterns.
~ How do you play castanets?
The cords tie over the thumbs and the fingers roll against the outer shell. There are two shells (halves) to a pair of castanets for each hand. Usually there are notches in the top to tell you which is higher toned and therefore played in the right hand (if right handed). See how to play castanets for more info.
Yes, no matter what age, if your feelings are stirred and it reaches your heart, then you must do it and enjoy the benefits it brings your way. This is why flamenco is also known as arte jondo (deep art), because it goes deep into one's feelings. See What is Flamenco and Why Flamenco to better understand the complexities.
~ How long does it take to learn?
Depends on your ability and dedication. If you have some previous dance background in another dance form, then it may be easier to pick up the technique. It will most likely take several weeks or months to get the idea, and several years of study and practice to master the complex art form.
~ What do I wear?
For dance, women wear a loose flowing skirt and firm shoes with sturdy heels. Men wear trousers and boots with sturdy heels. See classes for more detailed information on class attire.
~ Where do I buy the dancewear, shoes...?
Students may purchase flamenco practice skirts and "amateur" flamenco shoes locally or online. However, once a student has made the commitment to Flamenco dance, they will want to invest in a pair of "professional" flamenco shoes from a flamenco source which Jackie will recommend. See classes for where to purchase dance items.
~ How do I register for lessons?
If you're interested in taking one of Jackie's classes, you will need to register before your first lesson. See register/contacts for details.
~ Where are the classes held?
Jackie teaches at two dance studios in Kirkland, Wa. She also teaches private lessons upon requests. See classes for locations.
~ What is the distinction between the different flamenco forms called palos?
The rhythmic structures and verses are different. Some palos follow the 12 beat structure, and can be full of counter beats. Sevillanas has a set pattern as a folk dance in 3/4 time, while others follow a 4/4 or 6/8 beat structure.
~ What is compás?
The rhythmic structure and basic requirement of all flamenco. When learning one rhythm, you will find that others have similarities, yet are different in their accents and intention. See The Flamenco Compas Forms Palmas or handclapping help keep time, and takes practice to develop an ear for the rhythmic patterns.
~ How do you play castanets?
The cords tie over the thumbs and the fingers roll against the outer shell. There are two shells (halves) to a pair of castanets for each hand. Usually there are notches in the top to tell you which is higher toned and therefore played in the right hand (if right handed). See how to play castanets for more info.
