| Alianza Flamenca is a non-profit association formed in 1995 to develop and encourage a broader understanding of the art of flamenco, particularly flamenco dancing. It intends to give students a sound knowledge of all the rhythms, styles and techniques of the art of flamenco dance. It is also designed for participants to simply enjoy the intriguing aspects of this art from by exercising the body and mind. The syllabus or training method was devised to promote the highest possible standard of teaching and dancing outside of Spain. Students wishing to further broaden their horizons by joining master classes with the maestros of flamenco in Spain can benefit from Alianza's solid foundation of techniques.
In order to achieve this, a flamenco dance syllabus or training method was developed. It consists of seven courses in ascending order of proficiency including a separate two year course for children. There is also a teaching program for those wishing to teach the syllabus. Students learning the Alianza Flamenca syllabus are assessed at the end of each course by an overseas examiner/assessor and awarded an internationally acknowledged diploma on successful completion together with a comprehensive written evaluation of the work performed. They can then progress to the next higher course level. The designers of the syllabus/method have all learned and danced in Spain and have professionally performed and danced around the world. They have pooled their knowledge in order to train dancers and teachers and facilitate different styles and techniques throughout the syllabus. All aspects of the flamenco dance forms and techniques are covered with thorough emphasis on knowledge of the various rhythms and how to construct a particular dance, body posture and style as well as intricate castanet playing, fan and shawl work. Alianza Flamenca has its headquarters in Johannesburg with membership extending throughout Europe and now Australia. Members of varying standings from all over the world are welcome to join and are kept informed of upcoming events in Spain. In 1997, the first assessments were held in Australia by the Pasion Flamenco Dance Studio in Rockdale. Twenty-five students entered and passed their assessments, pathing the way for many more students in the years to come. Assessments are held annually with a different overseas assessor whose internationally acclaimed talents in choreography, dancing and teaching combined with the fact that they travel the world constantly assessing and evaluating the overseas standards with that in Australia. This brings us in touch and up-to-date with flamenco standards and new techniques worldwide. Assessments for 1999 were again held by Pasion Flamenco Dance Studio and other students throughout Sydney were assessed by Carlos who also offered his talents as a choreographer, dancer and teacher. He taught intensive flamenco dance workshops for beginners, intermediate and professionals in the evenings. In 2000 more flamenco dance school students participated in assessments which were held in April with Linda Vargas as the attending overseas assessor. In 2002, Hazel Acosta shared her wisdom and expertise with the students and prospective teachers at Pasion Flamenco Dance Studio. Alianza Flamenca is now taught in five studios in Sydney, one in Melbourne and one in Townsville. New beginners will be enrolled in February and assessments will again be held at the end of the year with an international assessor. For further information on Alianza Flamenca and/or enrolments for the course please contact the Representative and Organiser for Alianza Flamenca in Australia - Cristina Argyri. |
