Visiting timetableClosed
|Tuesday, January 13, 2026Historic center (Santa Cruz & El Arenal), Seville — near the Cathedral & Alcázar
Back to technique
rhythm
Compás, Palmas, Jaleo — How Flamenco Breathes
A practical guide to compás and palmas with jaleo phrases you’ll hear in Seville’s tablaos.
1/4/2026
12 min read
Palmas Types
| Type | Sound | How |
|---|---|---|
| Sordas | Warm, cushioned | Hands slightly cupped |
| Claras | Bright, crisp | Flat hands, finger tip alignment |
| Contratiempo | Off‑beat drive | Alternate with main beats |
Jaleo phrases: ¡Olé!, ¡Arsa!, ¡Eso es!, ¡Vamos! — supportive, never distracting.
Build a Groove (Tangos)
- Count: 1‑and‑2‑and‑3‑and‑4‑and.
- Clap on 2 and 4; add soft ghost claps on and.
- Drop a jaleo on the cierre.
Bulerías Micro‑Drill
- Feel phrases instead of strict beats.
- Practice a short hand pattern: soft‑soft‑strong, strong‑soft.
- Watch the dancer’s llamadas — they cue changes.
Room Etiquette
- Keep palmas below chest to avoid blocking sightlines.
- If unsure, listen first — join gently once you sense the compás.
- Silence is also musical; let cante breathe.
About the Author
Percussionist
I built this guide to keep your Seville flamenco plan simple and soulful: book a close‑up show first, then add museum context and rhythm workshops if you like. Practical tips, honest details, and warm suggestions throughout.
Tags
Compás
Palmas
Jaleo
Technique
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment
Loading comments...