Flamenco and Film Music History
70s: Music in Film
Apocalypse Now and Psychedelic Influence
The film “Apocalypse Now” uses psychedelic music reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey.” This era saw the influence of composers like Johann and Richard Strauss. In European cinema, particularly Italian cinema, composer Nino Rota created scores for Federico Fellini’s films, including “Amarcord.” Psychedelic music also drew inspiration from rock operas like “Jesus Christ Superstar.” The rise of disco clubs is reflected in films like “Saturday Night Fever,” featuring John Travolta and music by the Bee Gees.
80s: Economic Recovery and the Birth of the Video Clip
The global economy recovered in the 80s, leading to rising incomes and the birth of the video clip, which further popularized film music. John Williams composed iconic scores for films like “Star Wars,” “E.T.,” “Superman,” and “Indiana Jones.” In European cinema, Alan Parker’s “The Commitments” paid homage to soul music. In the UK, the comedy group Monty Python directed and created music for films like “Life of Brian” and “The Meaning of Life,” known for their sarcastic and irreverent humor. Vangelis, a progressive rock musician, composed the music for “Chariots of Fire.” Music for television series also gained prominence, with popular series like “Dallas” and Spanish series like “Verano Azul” (Summer Blue), “Curro Jiménez” (Weekly), and “El Hombre y la Tierra” (Man and Earth), featuring music by Antón García Abril. Bauhaus and David Bowie contributed to the punk music scene, influencing films like “The Hunger.”
90s to Present: The Internet and Music Production
The internet enabled illegal downloading of movies and music, impacting producers and record companies. Software like “Q-base” allowed for music composition with limited musical knowledge. Michael Nyman, a new-age composer, created music for Peter Greenaway’s films, including “Prospero’s Books” and “The Piano.” The 90s film “Trainspotting” featured pre-existing music by Iggy Pop and trip-hop artists. Lars von Trier’s “Dancer in the Dark” starred Björk, whose music blended Broadway style with electronica and industrial music. Other notable composers include James Horner (“Titanic,” “The Mask of Zorro”), Hans Zimmer (“The Lion King”), and Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”).
Flamenco History
Origins and Early History (15th-18th Centuries)
Flamenco’s origins trace back to the Roma people in the 15th century. It’s believed that the Mongol Empire’s invasion of India led to the persecution of lower castes, including the Roma. Flamenco’s hand gestures, hip movements, and facial expressions resemble coded gestures of Indian dance. The Romani language also has roots in India. Some Roma migrated from Turkey to Central Europe, while others traveled through North Africa to Andalusia, Spain, in the 15th century. “Gypsy” is derived from “Egyptian.” Upon arriving in Spain, the Roma assimilated Arabic musical influences, blending them with their own music. Early flamenco was a capella, such as the martinetes style.
19th Century: Rise of Flamenco
During the reign of Carlos III, Roma culture gained recognition, and they were allowed to perform music in the streets. This period saw the emergence of early flamenco singers like Tía Juana la del Pipa and Silverio Franconetti, who performed in cafes cantantes. The Spanish guitar, of Arabic origin, was adapted for flamenco, adding to its commercial appeal. Previously, flamenco primarily used percussion (clapping, whistling, footwork, and cajón).
20th Century: First Half – Rise and Recognition
Despite some initial disdain, flamenco gained popularity thanks to figures like Federico García Lorca and Manuel de Falla, who organized the first flamenco singing competition in Granada in 1922. Prominent singers included Antonio Chacón, Manolo Caracol, and Niña de los Peines. Flamenco opera further elevated the art form.
20th Century: Second Half – Consolidation and Evolution
Flamenco artists began researching their musical heritage, leading to the establishment of the Cátedra de Flamencología. Under Franco’s regime, the sevillanas style gained popularity due to its commercial appeal (e.g., Lola Flores). “Pure” flamenco became a more niche, elitist genre. Notable singers included José Menese, Antonio Mairena, and Camarón de la Isla, who pioneered flamenco fusion, blending it with other genres like Latin and jazz. Guitarist Paco de Lucía also played a crucial role in flamenco’s evolution.