The alluring mystery of flamenco

There is no doubt about the beauty and magic that the centuries-old Flamenco culture has brought to the world. This mysterious art form that incorporates music, both song and guitar playing and dance, originated in Andalusia over five hundred years ago. The unresolved part of the story of Flamenco is its exact origins. Little is known of the beginning and the development of Flamenco, hence there are many theories to how it came to be.

Flamenco was started in the lower social levels, which explains the lack of historical evidence. In the early days of Flamenco it was not considered a prestigious art form thus the lack in interest on the part of historians and musicologists. So, how did Flamenco actually come about?

It is thought that Flamenco evolved out of several different cultures that united in music and fused to form this lively, colorful and romantic art. The Gypsies, Moors (or Arabs), Jews and the indigenous Andalusians are thought to be the cultures from which Flamenco evolved. All of them were persecuted peoples and their struggles are portrayed in the music.

Even the word Flamenco is ambiguous. Though nobody knows the origin of the term, there are several theories as to the meaning of the word. The Spanish word is similar to that of the flamingo bird, or “flame-colored”, it could even refer to flamboyant behavior. It is also used to refer to the Gypsy people.

We may never know the true origins of the Flamenco culture or its name, but that just adds to the alluring mystery. Today, Flamenco continues to evolve. The passion of the music of old is still there but artists, such as Sorelo Levy, are taking Flamenco music a step forward. Sorelo makes his own style of Flamenco music, mixing into it contemporary beats and influences, giving the new Flamenco his fascinating signature touch.

T.