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About Classes:
What should I wear to class?
I am not strict about your choice of practice clothes, but I recommend wearing a comfortable T-shirt or leotard with stretchy dance pants and/or a long, full flamenco skirt. Whatever you choose should not constrict movements in any direction. Flamenco practice skirts can be purchased in class or online at websites including: www.kefkamenka.com
What about shoes?
Good flamenco shoes are the flamenco dancer's most important accessory. Your feet and shoes are your instruments, and should be cared for appropriately. First-time flamenco students should wear sneakers or dance character shoes to the first class or two. After that, flamenco shoes should be worn to class (flamenco boots for men). Inexpensive flamenco shoes or ballet folklorico shoes are best for the beginner. Shoes should be leather, with nails in the sole of the toe and heel, and a dance rubber sole. Note: Character shoes and tap shoes are NOT acceptable permanent substitutes for flamenco shoes. Folklorico shoes can be purchased at www.mariachiconnection.com, and inexpensive Maty-brand flamenco shoes from Spain are available at http://www.flamencoexport.com/flamenco-best-sellers/flamenco-shoes.html. Inexpensive flamenco or folklorico shoes cost between $40 and $60 (not including shipping).
Once a student moves on to the intermediate or advanced stage, he or she may want to consider purchasing more professional shoes, which generally cost $80 and up, and which are made of better materials for the best sound. In the U.S., a reliable supplier is www.flamencoshoes.com. Other internet suppliers from Spain include www.flamencoexport.com, www.flamenco-world.com and http://lunaflamenca.3a2.com (Spanish only). Strong ballroom or jazz character shoes will also work temporarily, but you MUST get real flamenco shoes before you will be able to do more advanced footwork. Bad shoes will form bad habits!
Where do I find flamenco cds?
Listening to both new and old flamenco music is fundamental to understanding the art form, and will improve your compas (rhythm) and musicality. Some good artists to seek out are singers Camaron de la Isla, Estrella Morente, Arcangel, Potito, Guadiana, Jose Merce, and Nina Pastori. Guitar-only cds (like Paco de Lucia and Tomatito) are NOT ideal for practicing flamenco dance. Traditional singing (cante) is the most important thing you can listen to. Be aware that most flamenco/pop bands, such as Ojos de Brujo and Ketama, do NOT sing traditional flamenco (although they may include aspects of flamenco music. Locally, check the World Music sections of Waterloo Records on Lamar Blvd. or Tower Records. The websites www.flamenco-world.com and www.deflamenco.com sell a huge variety of cds, and you can listen to audio clips before buying.
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