Classes in all levels include the study of:

• compas (flamenco rhythms)

• footwork technique: how to gain speed, strength and better control

• palmas accompaniment

• the interrelationship of guitar, dance and song forms

• dance technique: turns, armwork, style and dance physiology

• how to use right brain/left brain techniques to expand learning capacity

Class Descriptions:

Introduction:

This is a first level Introduction class for students that are new to flamenco. No previous knowledge of flamenco dance or music is required. This class will introduce students to the basic rhythms and dance forms of flamenco. The course introduces fundamental flamenco dance techniques including braceo (arms), floreo (fingers), posture (torso) and zapateado (footwork). The basic goal is coordination of movement. Secondly, it is also an integrated music class whereby students learn palmas (handclapping) rhythms for different songs and jaleo (shouts of encouragement). Students will obtain proper ear training to listen to the music and song forms.

Beginner:

The Beginner level is a technique class is intended for students with some flamenco training in Introduction classes. The class will contain technical exercises for footwork, flamenco turns, posture, flamenco body posture, movement and coordination. The class focuses on fundamental flamenco dance techniques including braceo (arms), floreo (fingers), posture (torso) and zapateado (footwork). Secondly, it is also an integrated music class whereby students learn palmas (handclapping) rhythms for different songs and jaleo (shouts of encouragement). Students will obtain proper ear training to listen to the music. Various choreographies are taught throughout the year, so please contact the instructor for more information.

Intermediate:

Intermediate level is a technique class that focuses on strengthening of zapteado (footwork), improving overall technique and learning more complex choreographies. Students will explore different flamenco styles, the creation of movement, and traditional versus contemporary flamenco. Various choreographies are taught throughout the year, so please contact the instructor for more information. Each class has exercises for zapateado (footwork), vueltas (turns) and marcaje (marking steps).

Bulerias:

How to dance bulerias “por fiesta” in the southern Jerez style; open to all intermediate and advanced students.

Advanced:

Advanced is a technique class is for students with mastery over basic skills and strong flamenco foundation. The course focuses on strengthening of zapteado (footwork), improving overall technique and learning complex, lengthy choreographies. Students will explore different flamenco styles, the creation of movement, and traditional versus contemporary flamenco. Various choreographies are taught throughout the year, so please contact the instructor for more information. Each class has exercises for zapateado (footwork), vueltas (turns) and marcaje (marking steps).

Neoclassical / Castanets:

Neoclassical is a branch of Spanish Dance that adheres to flamenco and ballet lines while playing the castanets. Students will learn the fundamentals of dancing with the castanets with Oscar Nieto. Classes will include castanet exercises for finger dexterity and also integrate with dance movement. Various choreographies are taught throughout the year.

Private classes available by appointment.

Contact Oscar Nieto
E-mail: oscarnieto@telus.net

Advertisement