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I've been wondering about this for a long time but never thought of asking in the foro. My question is, how come Castañuelas are not used in recordings anymore? I dont even see really see them in any baile videos either.
The first time I heard them in a recording was in Paco's "Punta Umbria" (Fandangos). I thought it sounded so cool
Any thoughts on this? Maybe they are too old fashioned for modern players?
how come Castañuelas are not used in recordings anymore? I dont even see really see them in any baile videos either.
Because the essence of the female baile is - or should be - in the bailaora's hands, fingers, arms, and upper torso. The use of castanets inhibits the proper use and movements of the hands and fingers.
My question is, how come Castañuelas are not used in recordings anymore? I dont even see really see them in any baile videos either.
My understanding is that castanets were never a staple of traditional flamenco dance. They were added by such outfits as Jose Greco in the 50s and 60s because they sounded cool. But the traditional flamenco puro performers did not use them. I actually recall reading or hearing somewhere that castanets were used more in Spanish classical dance.
Cheers,
Bill
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I haven't spent too much time in Andalucía so take this with a grain of salt, but the only times I've seen castanets in Spain were when they were getting sold to tourists Oh, they probably use them in performances in some of the caves in the Sacromonte.... where they charge tourists 20 euros for an hour of rumba and a pitcher of sangría.
I understood that they are really considered folk, a part of the Sevillanas tradition. They are just not even considered, of course I am talking about guitar not dance. In all the time I have been in Spain no-one has said we must have Castañuelas on this track. Though I have seen dancers use them occasionally. I once saw a Paco Peña show in London, probably mid 90's, where they were used to great effect with the guitar, a very seductive duet.