The impact of Moorish influences on flamenco in Seville: a legacy of sounds and traditions

Flamenco, as an artistic and cultural phenomenon is the result of a diverse range of centuries-old influences and traditions. Although deep-rooted in the history of the Andalusian gypsies, it is impossible to understand flamenco without recognising the impact other cultures have had on Andalusia throughout its history. One of the most significant influences in the evolution of flamenco, especially in the city of Seville, is the Arabic culture. Teatro Flamenco Sevilla explains the connection which is the base of the most popular, daily, live flamenco show in Seville, Passion.

The impact of Al-Andalus on flamenco in Seville

The Moorish presence in the Iberian peninsula during the period of Al-Andalus left an indelible print on the Andalusian culture and Seville, as one of the principal cities of the Moorish kingdom, was a key cultural centre. During more than 700 years the Arabic influence in music, dance and regional customs was crucial and this legacy continues to have an effect on today’s modern flamenco.

The Arabic musical elements, such as modes, scales and rhythms, blended with the Andalusian traditions giving way to a type of music that, although profoundly local, took echoes of the Arabic music with it. The Moors brought with them instruments such as the laud, which later evolved into the flamenco guitar, and a great wealth of vocal techniques that influenced flamenco singing, especially in the melismatic style and modulations in tone which are so characteristic to flamenco.

Rhythms and beats: Arabic heritage in flamenco

One of the most obvious Moorish influences in Sevillian flamenco are the rhythms and beats. Arabic music has a very complex rhythmic structure, with asymmetrical rhythms which are often repeated throughout the compositions. This type of rhythms, known as compound rhythms, can be found in various flamenco styles, such as bulerías, alegrías and soleá. The rhythmic structure of the bulería in particular, with its emphasis on odd time signatures, is a clear reflection of the complexity of the arabic rhythms.

In addition, there is a distinctive feature in the way the singers and dancers perform the rhythm in Sevillian flamenco. The use of repetitions and rhythmic variations, together with improvisation, is similar to traditional, Arabic music. This ability to mix improvisation and structure is a direct legacy of Al Andalus music.

The art of the duende and the Arabic flavour of flamenco in Seville

Flamenco in Seville is not only well-known for its technique, but also for its duende, or flamenco spirit, that inexplicable force that brings each performance to life. Many flamenco scholars coincide in that the idea of the duende is deeply rooted in the Arabic musical tradition, especially in the way the musicians and singers connect emotionally with the music. The concept of pleasure, the grace and art with which flamenco artists perform the music, is also linked to the Arabic concept of artistic beauty, where aesthetic and the emotion are inseparable. 

Flamenco in Seville, in its purest form, has a raw energy that moves the audience through the guitar, singing and dancing. This profound connection between the artist and the art form is also something that is found in Arabic music, which strives to achieve total communication between the artist and the audience. 

Flamenco guitar and the Arabic tradition

The flamenco guitar, the most used instrument in flamenco, is also linked to the Arabic instruments, particularly the laud. The Arabic laud, which arrived in the Iberian Peninsula with the Moors, was transformed over the centuries to become the guitar that we know today. This evolution not only changed the shape of the guitar but also the technique required to play it and the sound it made. The flamenco guitar, with its characteristic strumming and fast chords, has a resonance and a complexity of tones that reflect its Arabic influence.

The Arabic influence on flamenco in Seville is an essential part of the identity of flamenco as we know it today. From rhythms to modes and the emotions transmitted in each performance, the legacy of Al Andalus is ever present, drenching each rhythm and each chord. Understanding the connection between flamenco and Arabic musical traditions allows us to appreciate the wealth and complexity of one of the most powerful musical genres in the world. 

Experience flamenco in Seville

To enjoy the magic of flamenco and other traditional styles of music, you must visit Teatro Flamenco Sevilla. Experience flamenco in all its glory, immerse yourself in the emotion of each song. Get your flamenco tickets here and enjoy an unforgettable night of flamenco.