Flamenco is an unusual and yet quite unique style of singing which is still practised to this day across Spain although its origins are from Andalucia. It was originally the music and dance of the gypsies and is believed to date back to the sixteenth century.
Flamenco is so much more than just music or dance it is a folk art and an important part of Andalucian culture combining the Spanish guitar, singing and dance in one form. The singers and dancers are almost in a trance as their passion for the song and the dance take over their bodies.
There is no need for any other instruments as the voice and the guitar together with the clapping of hands is all that is required. In fact even the rhythmic hand clapping is hard to master.
Historically the cultures that were a direct influence for Flamenco with the Moors (arabs), the Jews, the indigenous Andalucians and of course the gypsies.
There are many schools that still teach Flamenco and if you head into the old quarters of most holiday resorts and head for the local tapas bars you are likely to see the passion of Flamenco in full force.
To see how popular Flamenco still is in Spain you just need to take a look at the music charts and you will always see lots of flamenco songs high up in the charts.
Nowadays some more modern styles of Flamenco also dominate the charts such as groups like Chambao aiming at a younger audience.
Along with the music there is a traditional style of dress that accompanies it such as the glamorous and colourful Flamenco dresses and the open necked shirts and high wasted black trousers for the men.
If you on a visit to Spain then you must try and check out a Flamenco show just to experience the passion and culture of Andalucia.