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Garyw1960 -> London Course with Tomas (May 28 2006 6:32:23)
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Along with others from this Forum I attended Tomas and Marias 3 hour Course at The Latinquarter in Hampstead Road London. My late arrival mean't I missed the first palo (thanks to the rail journey taking 5 hours!!).
Tomas was concerned with Compas within each dance accompaniment we studied. Fandangos was explained clearly and we each received individual help to ensure we had the basic compas and chords correct as a group. My initial tension disappeared as Tomas and Maria put the class at ease, yes the standard of playing varied from flamenco novice (me), to Jerome, Ian and Orson who were obviously polished performers.
The course members were mixed together to ensure we all played within the different groups. Maria ensured that the compas was spot on with each player, playing for her as a group then individually was something never to be forgotten, with her and Tomas giving positive reactions and advice. The other guitarists supported each other passing on helpful tips or clarifying timing and chord changes. It was a brilliant few hours.
We covered Tientos with the basic chords and compas explained and the feel and emotions that we and the dancers were trying to put across. Maria had arranged for fellow professional dancer Nuria to dance with us and the whole atmosphere within the course was supportive. Watching a dancers feet tapping out a relentless metronome beat I found enormously helpful to get the correct feel.
Towards the end each dancer performed for the group Maria and Nuria performed Sevillanas together accompanied by 4 of the group, then Nuria performed Soleares which made your hair stand on end as her movement and passion for the dance shone through.
It was good to meet fellow guitarists and dancers, putting faces to names like Romanza, Tomas and Flyeough. I have no hesitation in commending this course, if you can get there for Saturday 3rd June or the 10th June you will not be disappointed.
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