Flamenco dance improvisation: an expanded perspective

Abstract

This study explores improvisation within flamenco, taking dance as the cen- tral line and approaching it from an expanded perspective.

The objectives focus on examining the different uses of improvisation in flamenco dance, observing the different configurations that have been devel- oped in recent decades.

The methodology used has been based on an empirical approach and participant observation to establish a content analysis based on the collec- tion of bibliographic data and interviews.

Three main types of improvisation related to flamenco dance have been identified: improvisation in, with and from flamenco.

Improvisation in flamenco is built through established structures and rules, with functional objectives and specific results.

Moreover, improvisation with flamenco involves recognising estab- lished codes and, also, reshaping them by shifting the limits.

However, improvisation from flamenco expands and blurs the limits with the use of a language that crosses over to other artistic disciplines.

In conclusion, improvisation in flamenco uses predefined limits and structures, while improvising with flamenco allows us to explore within those structures and redefine the margins. Finally, improvising from fla- menco applies and expands an additional language that transcends space and aesthetics. In summary, improvisation in flamenco adjusts to the rules, improvisation with flamenco plays with them, and improvisation from fla- menco uses them as another influence in a broader context.