falsetanuova -> RE: any recommendations for beginner? (Dec. 15 2007 11:31:28)
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Dear Mihkel: I too am recently dedicating myself fully to Flamenco from a classical background. My initial passion was always Flamenco, however, as I had no musical experience in my past, classical (you will find) provides an outstanding foundation (for any music). Especially transferring to Flamenco. One must try and struggle with letting go or forgetting much of what one has learned however, otherwise you will not be able to develop a genuine/proper Flamenco technique. It will be a hybrid, a bit like Pepe Romero. At any rate, to your enquiry: I *strongly* suggest you to pursue and research Amalio Burguet. An outstanding luthier with an incredible background. He also is well established in Flamenco guitar building. A very respectable luthier. At any rate, the 2F is a blanca and an instrument to be proud of. I have read and heard nothing but great things. Yet as you read, it is all such a subjective thing, sound.... Yet, I genuinely feel you will be most pleased with this instrument above all for the price range you are seeking. I almost purchased one for $750, like-new condition via a dealer on Eb*y. i cannot recall who it was, yet he dealt privately "on the side" in high end instruemnts and this was the only instrument he particularly recommended under the $2k mark. However, he apparenlty has not heard of Salvador Castillo in Paracho, Mexico... At any rate, I went with a private luthier however and did not continue, yet had the opportunity to play and inspect one locally. They are fine instruments and attention to detail is exceptional...Burguet receiveds much praise for his attentionl to detail of construction. Lastly, I highly recommend the DVDs by Graf-Martinez. They are not for novices, and as you have a classical background as well, they are very, very impressive. The techniques and exercises, falsetas, etc, are all genuine, traditional, "authentic" if I may say, Flamenco techniques. He is a genuinely talented, Graf-Martinez, a true Maestro. It is apparent. At any rate, although one of course shall develop as there are many techniques of Flamenco that are even developed personally, player to player, he teaches all standard Rasgueos, 4 types of tresillos, ayudado, pulgar, picado, tremelo, etc... Above all, the compas instructionals are truly impressive as well (a difficult to understand subject that will take time, the most time, to learn I feel)....anyway, truly everything is covered well to develop a good foundation and very solid understanding in Flamenco prior to studying with someone. My only complaints are that one must be quite intuitive and watch, re-watch the techniques within the videos clearly. The explanations are brief at best, not many "tips" given to aid in learning the techniques, and the translator chosen for the English versions is simply horrible and distracting. They will take some time to get through. I am very pleased with them. Best of luck, and most of all, listen to as much traditional Flamenco as possible!! Also, as I am doing and have read in my research many many places, learn to dance....take your significant other with you and learn tango, ballroom even...dance rythms are of paramount importance to truly understand Flamenco...I know, I know, I too am a block of wood!! We'll see ho wthat goes...it will be fun though. Couples who dance together are always happy couples. The language and relationship btw 2 people dancing brings people together ina very unique and special way. I have a great respect for people who can dance and express themselves with their bodies...expecially with another. I hope this helps you. Take care. ciao.
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