We’re excited to welcome you to your first flamenco class! If you’re wondering what to wear—don’t worry. You don’t need special gear to get started. Just come as you are!
Wear something comfortable that allows you to move freely. Leggings, yoga pants, or a loose skirt all work well. You’re also welcome to dress in flamenco style if you wish—but it’s completely optional, especially for your first term.
Most beginners do not have flamenco shoes when they start—and that’s totally fine!
For your first few classes, try to wear sturdy shoes with the following characteristics:
Avoid very high heels or stylettos (over 3 inches), and wedges (they don’t allow the shoe to bend) and open-toe shoes.
We’ll go over footwear options in class and guide you through your choices. If you decide to continue with flamenco, you’ll eventually want to invest in flamenco shoes available online. Check out Maria’s Buying Guide: Flamenco Shoes
We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early so you have time to settle in, change if needed, and prepare mentally and physically. If the studio is open and not in use, you’re welcome to start warming up or reviewing previous material. It usually takes about 5–10 minutes for the body and mind to shift into class mode, so arriving early helps you get the most out of your time.
Trying something new can feel a bit intimidating — but you’re not alone. Chances are, many of your classmates are also just starting out. Within minutes, you’ll find yourself in a welcoming, supportive space, ready to move and enjoy the experience.
We’ve created a short intro to flamenco techniques so you can get a feel for the basics before your first class. Take a peek here: Flamenco Dance Basics – Free Tutorial Let us know if you have any questions—we can’t wait to dance with you!
1. Ask for Help in Class
Don’t hesitate to ask your teacher to repeat or clarify a step — that’s what we’re here for. Chances are others are wondering the same thing.
2. Commit to Regular Attendance
Consistency is key. Attending each class helps you stay on track with the group and build your skills steadily.
3. Practice Briefly but Often
Just 5–10 minutes a day of reviewing what you learned can make a big difference. Muscle memory is built gradually.
4. Communicate with Your Teacher
If something feels confusing, physically uncomfortable, or overwhelming, let your teacher know. We can help you adapt or offer suggestions.
5. Focus on Your Progress, Not Others
Everyone has a unique learning curve. Celebrate your own achievements and avoid comparisons — you’re dancing because you love it!
6. Footwork and Shoes
Flamenco dancers are also percussionists — your feet are your instrument! Proper shoes help develop clean footwork and sound. If you’re committed to learning flamenco, investing in the right shoes early on is essential. And don’t forget comfort — nobody enjoys painful footwear. We’ll help you find a pair that fits both your feet and your dance goals.
Enjoy a free and comprehensive castanet tutorial series designed for beginners, taught by the renowned Maria Osende. These lessons will guide you step-by-step through the fundamentals of playing castanets, ensuring you build a strong foundation in technique and rhythm.
Free How-To Flamenco Dance Tutorials for Adult Beginners
Sevillanas Tutorial. Steps and videos to learn and review your sevillanas
Discover Flamenco Dance! find out all you need to know as well as upcoming beginner dance courses
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z A abanico: fan. Also, rasgueado guitar technique using a triplet pattern of up with the thumb, down with both the middle and ring fingers simultaneously and then back up with the thumb. afillá: a type