Coiling wrists, swirling skirts, fluid arms and percussive footwork are hallmarks of flamenco dance— a mesmerizing, soul enriching dance form that parallels the beautiful melodies and intricate rhythms of flamenco music. It is danced individually by men and women alike and can be seen on dance stages across the world, as well as private parties, small venues (tablaos) and informal gatherings in Southern Spain. 

New To Flamenco - All You Need To Know About Starting Flamenco - Upcoming and Current Absolute Beginner Classes

Discover the Art, Embrace the Dance

Embarking on a new experience can be both thrilling and slightly nerve-wracking. As you contemplate joining our flamenco classes, it’s perfectly normal to have questions and concerns. Let us guide you through the introductory steps and address the common thoughts that may be crossing your mind.

Who Dances Flamenco with Us?

Our vibrant community is a diverse tapestry of women from various walks of life, spanning different ages and backgrounds. What unites them is a shared curiosity for flamenco, a desire for self-expression, and the joy of taking on a creative challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer exploring a new genre or stepping into a dance class for the first time, you’ll find like-minded individuals eager to share in the journey.

Our Beginner Courses are designed for individuals with:

  • No Previous Flamenco Dance Experience: Whether you’re taking your first steps into the world of flamenco or have never attended a dance class before, this course is crafted to introduce you to the art form with a beginner-friendly approach.

     

  • Under 6-12 Months of Flamenco Dance Class Training: If you’ve recently started your flamenco dance journey and have been exploring the basics for less than a year, this level is structured to build on your foundation and enhance your skills.

     

  • Higher Level Students Wanting to Review Basics and Add More Practice: For those at higher levels seeking to solidify their fundamentals, this course offers an opportunity to revisit and reinforce the basics while incorporating additional practice into your weekly class schedule.

     

  • Students Reconnecting After a Break: If you’ve taken a break from flamenco dance and are eager to rekindle your passion, this level provides a welcoming space to reintegrate and rediscover the joy of flamenco.

 

Is Flamenco Physically Demanding?

Flamenco, especially at the entry level, is a low-impact exercise suitable for all fitness levels and ages. While the journey can be as intense as you choose, most students find it to be a fulfilling and enjoyable way to stay active. Whether you’re looking for a creative outlet or aspiring to become a professional flamenco dancer, the path is tailored to your pace and goals.

Revealing the Flamenco Footwork

The essence of flamenco lies in its footwork, known as “zapateado.” While it may seem the hardest of all initially, the reality is that it’s not! Through repetition and correct execution, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you master this form of foot percussion.

Progress and Advancement

Tracking progress in flamenco is unique to each individual, influenced by factors such as previous dance experience, class attendance, and personal practice.

Our commitment to personalized attention ensures that your journey aligns with your learning style. Communicate with your teacher, sharing your experience and pace preferences. At our small school, we understand that everyone learns differently, and we are dedicated to crafting a class experience that suits YOU.

Join this flamenco exploration with confidence, knowing that you are not alone – you are joining a community of passionate individuals eager to embrace the art, rhythm, and joy of flamenco. Welcome to the dance floor!

About Our Hybrid Classes 💻

Our Hybrid class format brings together in-person and online students in a dynamic hybrid experience. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Our hybrid classes run through Zoom video conferencing software. Along with your registration, you’ll receive a private link to join the classes.

     

  • All classes are recorded on Zoom and sent to all students.

     

  • All Students will have access to a collection of videos of all classes throughout the duration of the course and for a year afterwards.

     

  • In-person students have the option to attend from home when needed, all students will get the online access.

Below and example of a previously offered hybrid course “Tanguillos de Cadiz”, the view is what online students see. Please notice this is a “Beginner 2” level sample, not an absolute beginner one.

Beginner Course Content and Duration:

Completing the Entry Level typically involves attending two or more Absolute Beginner courses, spanning approximately 10-16 weeks. However, this timeline can vary from person to person based on factors such as dedication, level of engagement, age, and previous dance experience in other styles. Everyone progresses at their own pace, so there’s flexibility to ensure each student feels confident as they advance.

Throughout the course, you will learn, review and practise the essential elements of flamenco, including:

  • Arm and Hand Position, Movement, and Drills: Explore the expressive gestures and movements that define flamenco, refining your arm and hand techniques through targeted drills.

     

  • Basic Footwork Steps and Drills: Master the foundational footwork steps, gradually building your agility and precision through structured drills.

     

  • Basic Flamenco Steps “Marcajes”: Learn the distinctive marking steps that are fundamental to the flamenco dance vocabulary.

     

  • Clapping and Flamenco “Compas” (Rhythm): Immerse yourself in the rhythmic intricacies of flamenco by mastering the art of clapping and understanding the essential “compas.”

  • Choreography to Integrate and Practice All the Above:     Bring together your newly acquired skills through choreographed sequences that integrate arm movements, footwork, turns, clapping, and rhythm.

 

Our Weekly Flamenco Dance Classes Take Place at Happy Soul Dance Studios in Halifax, Nova Scotia and some courses are hybrid (online and in-person)

Dance Level Chart

Read more on our levels here

BEGINNER FLAMENCO TUTORIALS & ARTICLES