First Grade Flamenco Study Combines Language and Performance
Baile, Cante, Jaleo, Toque, Palmas, and Pitos were the Catalan terms of the day in Mr. Greer's Grade 1 Theater Performance classes, as the students learned the nuances of dancing the Flamenco. The words were familiar and the students' accents impeccable, reflecting their Spanish studies. As they learned the dance, they noticed and commented on the similarities between Spanish and Catalan.
The students had previously received background information in their Spanish classes, where they learned about Flamenco musical instrumentation, such as castanets, and the familiar and distinctive guitar stylings. Mr. Greer introduced and helped guide them through the terms, methods and attitudes of professional Flamenco dancers, with their bodies held straight and tall, chests out, precise heel-and-toe footwork, hands clapping and snapping, and their seriously-focused concentration. The students swiftly learned and combined all the elements and Mr. Greer split them into two groups to perform a short Flamenco for their friends. After each performance, Mr. Greer asked each audience to contribute their comments thoughtfully and respectfully.