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Flamenco: an Englishman’s passion - two decades devoted to the world of flamenco

 

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Flamenco: An Englishman’s Passion, the book that marked my first step into the world of flamenco writing. My intention in undertaking the journey that led to the publication of this book was to help readers understand and appreciate the art of flamenco. I have sought to explain the distinction between traditional flamenco song and dance, performed by non-professionals, and the commercialised form of flamenco seen on the stage. My main aim has been to illuminate the two profoundly different faces of flamenco: the glittering, theatrical spectacle and the cante jondo - the deep, soulful songs that have existed in Andalusia for some five centuries. To truly understand flamenco, one must experience the spontaneous, raw emotion of its purest form, so far removed from much of what dominates the modern scene. It is important to remember that flamenco is an ancient art, preserved through generations by ordinary people who have used it as a powerful form of personal expression.

I also wanted to provide English-speaking readers with an insight into the extraordinary flamenco tradition that still thrives in Andalusia. This desire arose from the difficulties I encountered when I was first drawn to this remarkable art form and sought to understand it more deeply.

The Gypsies of Andalusia  have played a vital
role in the preservation of flamenco


The Andalusian Gypsies have played a vital role in both the evolution and preservation of flamenco, and it is often within their communities that the art reaches its most authentic and powerful expression. Whether flamenco is, as some believe, the music of the Gypsies, or, as Federico García Lorca described it, “the greatest creation of the Spanish people,” is a question that will likely continue to inspire debate for generations.

What remains certain, however, is that without the Gypsy communities of Andalusia, flamenco might well have been lost to time. And whether or not they were its earliest performers, it seems undeniable that in their hand’s, flamenco finds its fullest and most profound expression.

I was honoured to have Flamenco: An Englishman’s Passion published by Flamenco Sapiens, the publishing arm of the Museo del Baile Flamenco in Seville. First published in June 2006, only a few months after this pioneering museum - the first and still the only institution of its kind in the world - opened its doors, the book has become the work with which my writing career is most closely associated.

Since then, I have completed a trilogy of books exploring the art of flamenco and the people who embody it most profoundly - the Gypsies of Andalusia. Yet it is that first book that continues to attract the greatest attention.

Young singers like Dani de Utrera continue to
promote the orhtodox style of cante jondo



Some of the literary platforms like Good Reads claimed that the book “taps into flamenco's history and is a great learning resource for anyone with an interest in flamenco”; while Google Books said, “This book provides a fascinating insight into this much mis-understood art form”. Culture Spain claimed “it brings flamenco alive in a uniquely effective way”.

I make no claim to expertise in the art of flamenco; rather, I am a passionate devotee, and the observations and preferences presented in this book reflect my personal perspective. My basic views and fundamental beliefs have not changed following years of maturing within the art of flamenco, if anything, they are now even more strongly implanted with time and experience.

Flamenco is far more than an unusual style of music that may sound, to unfamiliar ears, like the aching cries of a forgotten people; it is a profound and magical gift woven into the soul of Andalusia. It is a captivating dance, so intense and passionate that it leaves its audience mesmerised, a duende-filled song that penetrates deep into the spirit, and at times a joyful expression of freedom, where worries disappear and time itself seems to stand still.

Long may it continue!

Flamenco: an Englishman’s passion is available in hardback and paperback.

Order here

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