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What is flamenco?Much controversy exists as to the origins of flamenco. What is certain is that it is an art form arising from a fusion of cultures in Andalucia, Spain's southernmost province. At least four cultures were involved in that fusion: that of the Gypsies who came originally from India and settled in Spain in the early fifteenth century, that of the Moors who invaded the South of Spain in the early eighth century, that of the Spanish jews, and Andalucia's indigenous culture. The Christian reconquest in the late fifteenth century saw the Gypsies, Moors and Jews all fleeing persecution, many of them taking refuge in Andalucia's mountainous areas. Their common exile is often cited as the main catalyst for the formation of flamenco forms we know today. The central and oldest part of flamenco is the cante, or song. Around this has evolved flamenco guitar, dancing, palmas (clapping), jaleo (calling out), and most recently the cajon (a percussion instrument). What
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