Flamenco Guitar Lessons

Some people might say, "if you're not a native of Andalucia, you can't play flamenco". I'm sure we've all heard something similar before. This pessimistic notion, and, quite frankly, dated idea, shouldn't put anyone off taking flamenco guitar lessons.

Today, the world is embracing flamenco, and that includes everyone, not just those descended from Andalucia! Thirty years ago, that kind of perception may have been the case, the flamenco guitar reserved by a minority of musicians. Not today! There are some fantastic guitar players out there, amateur and professional, Spanish and non Spanish. Take a look around, some flamenco musicians are giving amazing performances. They could only be inspirational! Before you decide to take lessons, there are a few basic techniques you could try. You don't even need a flamenco guitar, to get started! One of the most distinctive sounds of flamenco guitar music is the rhythmic tapping of the fingers upon it - Golpe. Why not limber up for your first lesson!

If you can't afford a professional teacher, all is not lost. There are loads of free videos. Talented musicians providing instructions for many of the more basic flamenco guitar techniques. Like the Picado or the Tremelo. There's also lots of information about the guitar music, each province of Andalucia having it's own variation. Even places within the provinces can have their own specific style. This can become a bit overwhelming for the beginner. It is important to understand, before you begin, there is no set way to play flamenco. The techniques and music have been developed communally, over generations. Generations who may well have moved from region to region, the music developing as more and more influences take turns in playing their part. Because no-one knows who wrote them first, you are free to diversify and experiment. A great opportunity to express yourself in a uniquely artistic way. Also, if you understand a song's history, it will be easier to express the emotions within it. Of course, when it comes to modern musicians, like Ramon Montoya, Madrid, 1880 - 1949, credited for the "Rondena", this tends to not be the case.

Flamenco is a very diverse art form. Like the visual arts, it too continually changes. This can be a stumbling block when you first get started. Most professionals believe in starting with the basics. Usually the guitar music, most people around the world, have come to recognise as the 'flamenco sound'. For example, a typical fandandos would be from Huelva. From Sevilla, the 'Sevillanas' is instantly recognisable. Even when the style has been adapted. Working with a professional will always be the easiest way. If you are determined enough, it will not matter if you take professional flamenco guitar lessons or not. Keep it steady and slow, and practice! Practice! Practice!