Can we please bust the myth that you are either born with rhythm or doomed?
Rhythm can be learned.
And thank goodness for that!
Because compás, rhythm, is fundamental to flamenco.
Below I share three ways to improve your compás in flamenco.
Compás
Flamenco dancers and musicians alike strive to be in compás, in rhythm.
But with all of the complexities and layers to flamenco music, it can be a challenge.
It’s true that rhythmic ability varies person to person (for a variety of reasons),
And it’s true that people who grow up surrounded by flamenco from a young age are at an advantage,
But everybody can learn.
The question is, are you willing to?
With some
desire,
dedication,
patience,
and
practice,
anybody can develop rhythm.
How to improve your compás:
1.) Watch and listen to a lot of flamenco music and dance.
This is the most important step you can take to boost your rhythmic ability.
Why do those who were raised around a lot of flamenco have such great compás?
They heard it all of the time for one thing.
We can complain that we didn’t grow up like this, or start listening now!
2.) Take classes and tutorials.
It goes without saying that receiving direct instruction is also going to help.
Why not start with the video below?
If you enjoy live instruction, try out a palmas class!
3.) Practice.
Practice anywhere and everywhere.
Use one of the many online resources, like this flamenco metronome from Ravenna Flamenco, to better understand and practice along with flamenco specific rhythms.
Dedicated practice time is great, but you can work on your compás while walking down the street, brushing your teeth, or listening to music in your car.
So, let’s get to it!
In the video below Encarna Anillo and Roberto Jaén give you a chance to do all three things mentioned above.
They demonstrate compás por alegrías and bulerías. They show you how to accompany cante with palmas and invite you to follow along with them.
Before we watch, here’s a letra you’ll hear Encarna sing:
Alegrías
Traditional
Que Cái tiene solera
no es menester discutir
porque es la mare del cante
que con Jerez de la Frontera
Cádiz has flavor
there’s no need to argue
because she’s the mother of flamenco singing
along with Jerez de la Frontera
Now, here’s that video…
You’ll hear this letra 45 seconds in.
She follows the letra with this juguetillo.
Be sure to notice the emojis at the top indicating where to clap and where to stomp your foot to the beat.)
So, were you able to clap along in compás?
Did you stay in time? Did you mark the accents? How did it feel?
(And what did you think about their seated bulerías at the end?)
!Qué arte!
Let me know in the comments below.