Where to Learn Flamenco in Barcelona?

Barcelona: A Key City to Learn Flamenco

Flamenco in Barcelona for over two centuries. The first documented reference linking the city to flamenco dates back to 1794, in a publication of Diario de Barcelona, where J.M.A. “el Madrileño” wrote: “I was a singer, you wrote the verses, and you also played some instrument.” That same text mentions Xavier el Flamenco, proving that by the late 18th century, Barcelona was already connected to this art form.

In the early 19th century, “cafés cantantes” emerged in Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona. These venues were the first spaces where flamenco started to become professionalized outside private homes. Over time, the city has developed other spaces dedicated to preserving and teaching flamenco: flamenco schools.

Types of Flamenco Classes in Barcelona

The most sought-after discipline among students interested in flamenco classes in Barcelona is dance. Flamenco dance is visually captivating and has the highest demand, which is why most schools focus on training flamenco dancers. However, flamenco singing (cante) and guitar (toque) also have a strong presence in the city’s training centers, whether in formal academies or through private lessons with professionals.

Additionally, Barcelona offers flamenco rhythm workshops, like those organized by Flamenco de Cerca, where students learn how to clap the rhythms (palmas) of different flamenco styles (palos). Institutions like Taller de Músics and ESMUC (Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya) provide flamenco musicology masterclasses, further deepening the city’s educational offerings.

Where to Learn Flamenco in Barcelona?

Barcelona has been a key city for flamenco for over two centuries. The presence of this art form in the city dates back to 1794 when the Diario de Barcelona mentioned a figure known as “Xavier el Flamenco.” By the early 19th century, cafés cantantes had emerged in Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona, marking the first spaces where flamenco became a professional art form beyond private gatherings. Today, the city is home to numerous flamenco schools dedicated to preserving and teaching this rich cultural tradition.

Among the most prestigious flamenco dance schools in Barcelona, La Tani and José de la Vega stand out for their long history in training dancers. These schools go beyond technique and choreography, offering specialized classes that prepare students for professional performance. La Tani, for example, has specific training in tablao performance and bata de cola technique. José de la Vega expands its curriculum with lessons in flamenco singing, guitar, castanets, and percussion (cajón flamenco).

Other institutions have also gained recognition, such as La Capitana, maintaining the high level of Barcelona’s flamenco training scene. Schools like Niubó Danza, founded by Isabel Ruiz de Villa, teach various styles, including flamenco, jazz, and funk, catering to children, teenagers, and adults. The Lucero Cárdenas Flamenco School, established 20 years ago in Gràcia, offers training in sevillanas as well as advanced flamenco styles like guajiras, bamberas, garrotín, and tientos-tangos. Another important institution is Paca García Flamenco School, where students can learn classical Spanish dance, bolero school, and flamenco.

Beyond formal schools, some of the most recognized flamenco dancers in Barcelona, including Paloma Fantova and Rebeca Monasterio, both linked to Tablao de Carmen, offer private lessons. Additionally, several civic centers across the city provide affordable flamenco classes. Centers such as Centro Cívico Besòs and Centro Cívico Barceloneta host flamenco programs covering singing, guitar, percussion, and dance. The Centro Cultural Gitano de La Mina is another valuable space where young students learn flamenco from professionals like Costi el Chato.

Beyond traditional schools, Barcelona offers two university degrees in flamenco. Taller de Músics provides a Bachelor’s Degree in Flamenco Performance, with specializations in singing and guitar. ESMUC (Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya) also includes a flamenco specialization within its Traditional Music Interpretation program, catering to both singers and guitarists.

For those looking for intensive programs, the Taller de Músics’ summer courses cover disciplines like singing, piano, guitar, and percussion. The Institut del Teatre also plays a crucial role in flamenco education, incorporating Spanish classical dance and bolero school as core subjects in its six-year performing arts curriculum.

The Benefits of Learning Flamenco

Flamenco is more than just dance and music; it is a discipline that fosters confidence, emotional expression, and cultural connection. María Martín, an 18-year-old flamenco dancer at Tablao de Carmen, has been training since childhood. She first took classes in a local association in Sant Ildefonso (Cornellà) and later joined Paca García Flamenco School, where she continues her studies.

For María, formal training has been essential. “Attending a school has been key for me, and I hope to keep learning because flamenco is an art that never stops evolving. You don’t just learn technique; you also gain discipline, respect, and a way of understanding how to carry yourself in this world,” she explains. Her experience has also included masterclasses with Antonio Canales, Eva la Yerbabuena, and El Güito, reinforcing her growth as an artist.

Since joining Tablao de Carmen, María has discovered the importance of listening to the singing, responding to the rhythms, and connecting with the audience. “The audience has paid to see you, and they deserve to enjoy a real performance. One of the best lessons I received from my teacher, Paca García, was that sometimes, less is more—you don’t need to showcase everything you’ve learned on your first day on stage,” she shares.

Tablao de Carmen: A Flamenco Landmark in Barcelona

For years, Tablao de Carmen has been a stage for young flamenco talents from Barcelona and nearby regions, including Reus and Tarragona, who begin their professional journey as early as 16 years old. Whether they come from flamenco schools or Catalan flamenco families, many artists have had their first professional experience at this historic venue.

Barcelona is a hub of flamenco culture, home to renowned artists, passionate audiences, and a vibrant scene of performances, tablaos, and flamenco bars. The city offers a variety of flamenco experiences, from intimate settings where spectators are just a meter away from the performers—such as Las Brujas or Robadors—to larger productions like the Gran Gala Flamenca at Palau de la Música.

At Tablao de Carmen, visitors can immerse themselves in the essence of flamenco, witnessing both seasoned professionals and emerging artists share the stage. For those learning flamenco, the tablao offers a unique opportunity—they can even join the closing fiesta, stepping onto the stage and experiencing the authentic atmosphere of a traditional tablao in Barcelona. Witnessing this blend of generations and experience levels is one of the greatest attractions of Tablao de Carmen.