The historical construction of flamenco dancing as an educational discipline: Andalusia 16th-21st century

Abstract

This article aims to undertake a short historical journey through the different educational stages of flamenco dancing over the centuries (from the 16th century up to the present day), using the three concepts of informal, non-formal and formal education. We have found, since flamenco dancing began, that informal education has been the main type of education, which continues to date. During the mid-18th century, the teaching of flamenco dancing began to become systemized in academies called salones, which are currently increasing in number. Lastly, formal education appeared somewhat late and was included in the conservatories of high level education as a specialty in 2007. The late appearance of said formal education denotes the lack of attention paid by administrations amid the evident educational demand for flamenco dancing.