Media: https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTcyYTQ4YTRmOXpoeW9qZ3lwa2Rvd2hnaXNybGMzYWFzNnBmeTM1Njd1ZTFhNWI2eCZlcD12MV9naWZzX3NlYXJjaCZjdD1n/Zgm3f3t34RK3h6mjOk/giphy.gifTitle: The Unique Flavor of Spanish Flamenco in New Mexico
In recent years, flamenco has become an increasingly popular form of dance, music, and song across the globe. However, there is one place where this passionate art form truly thrives with its own unique flavor – Albuquerque, New Mexico. Known for its green chiles, hot air balloon festival, and being the birthplace of the bomb, New Mexico has also established itself as a global center of flamenco.
The University of New Mexico is at the forefront of this cultural movement, offering graduate and undergraduate Dance degrees with an emphasis in flamenco. This unique focus allows students to delve deep into the art form while still maintaining its distinct roots. The National Institute of Flamenco also calls Albuquerque home, providing a world-class repertory company and conservatory that teaches students as young as three all the way up to aspiring professional dancers.
What sets flamenco in New Mexico apart from other locations is its deeply Hispanic identity which traces back to Spanish settlers who arrived over 400 years ago. This rich history has allowed for a unique evolution of the art form, creating a sound that is truly “New Mexican.” As Vicente Griego, a celebrated singer from northern New Mexico specializing in cante jondo (the deep song of flamenco), explains: “Here in New Mexico it’s got to sound like us. There are other people who want to do flamenco exactly the way it’s been done in Spain. But what makes us really special here and what keeps us honest, is that we have our own history.”
Marisol Encinias, executive director of the National Institute of Flamenco, adds: “I like to think that there’s something in our DNA that ties us to the antecedents of flamenco from long ago. It’s not just about preserving tradition; it’s also about celebrating and liberating ourselves through this beautiful art form.”
The popularity of flamenco has exploded globally, with performances found in cities like Tokyo, Israel, Toronto, throughout Latin America, Miami, New York, and San Francisco. However, the unique flavor of Spanish Flamenco in Albuquerque stands out as a testament to its deep-rooted history and cultural significance within New Mexico’s Hispanic identity.
In conclusion, while flamenco continues to captivate audiences worldwide, it is essential not to overlook the distinct charm that this art form holds when embraced by communities like Albuquerque, New Mexico. Its rich heritage and unique evolution make for a truly remarkable experience that celebrates both tradition and innovation in equal measure.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/06/07/nx-s1-5340673/spanish-flamenco-thrives-in-new-mexico-with-its-own-unique-flavor) #spanish
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