Cantiñas videos to make your heart sing this spring
Hands up if Alegrías is one of your earliest memories of flamenco? With its happy melody it’s one of the most accessible and iconic palos, and it’s definitely one of my favourites.
Alegrías is part of the Cantiñas family. Generally in a major key and performed with a festive spirit, there is something wonderful about Cantiñas that makes me think of the springtime. As we’re heading into Term Four, and with summer just around the corner, it’s time to celebrate a little! Here are some of my go-to Alegrías and Cantiñas videos that always put a smile on my face…
Esperanza Fernández - Cantiñas del Pinini
Esperanza Fernández seems to radiate positivity through the screen in this video filmed in the caves of Granada.
Esperanza Fernández singing Cantiña del Pinini, accompanied by Pedro Sierra on guitar.
Vicente Escudero - Alegrías
An old recording of maestro Vicente Escudero but still full of vitality. There’s something about his white shoes that just make this video.
Paco de Lucia - Alegrías
An absolutely uplifting piece from the maestro.
La Barrosa
Luisa Palicio - Alegrías with bata de cola and mantón
The impeccable precision of Luisa Palicio dancing with bata and mantón is an absolute delight.
Luisa Palicio with Ana Gómez, El Galli & Javier Rivera (voice) and Miguel Pérez (guitar).
Want to know more about Cantiñas? Check out this resource from Flamencopolis (Spanish only).
What are your favourite Cantiñas videos? Would you like to know more about different palos of flamenco? Share your comments and questions with us below.