Workshop: In this workshop series, appropriate for grade levels 3-8, Linda begins by introducing students to Spanish Gypsy history, cultural traditions, lifestyle and the evolution of Flamenco as an art form. Her strong artistry inspires students to express themselves through hand, arm and body movement, as well as rhythmic footwork. The strong rhythmic base of flamenco helps students develop coordination skills through the exploration of stylistic movement, footwork and clapping. Short video clips feature a young male Gypsy dancer performing an exciting footwork section and a scene from a traditional Gypsy "juerga", or impromptu musical gathering, focusing on a young Gypsy girl dancing.

Students will also discuss and analyze what they observed and how it relates to their work. Appropriate Spanish terms used in Flamenco dance will be woven throughout the lessons, building a vocabulary of terms. Students will practice a proud Flamenco stance while connecting hand, arm and body movements, as well as clapping with clear rhythm, even tempo and sharp accents. The various rhythms and patterns will be combined into 16-count phrases that fit into the 4-count rhythms. Connections will be made between the guitar music and the rhythmic dance patterns. Throughout, students will learn to appreciate and value the importance of practice through continuous repetition, as well as cooperate, support and inspire one another through steady hand-clapping and uplifting shouts of encouragement. Finally, they will execute a dance study in its entirety, connecting and combining the basic elements and skills of the dance style.

Sakai Flamenco is also available for assembly performances. Click HERE for their assembly page.

Price:
$100 per 60-minute workshop, plus possible planning fee. Minimum three workshops per day must be scheduled.

Age Group: Grades 3-8
Capacity: 1 Classroom (maximum of 35 students, plus regular teacher)
Availability: Year Round

To design an arts education program with this artist, please call (213) 250-ARTS or email schoolprograms@musiccenter.org.

Prices are for services between July 1, 2009 and June 30, 2010.