Bulerías
Fast flamenco rhythm in 12-beat cycle, originating in 19th-century Jerez.
Last updated
Bulerías is a fast flamenco rhythm built on a 12-beat cycle with two general accent patterns, often perceived by dancers as a 6-count compás. It originated among the Calé Romani people of Jerez during the 19th century as a rapid, upbeat ending to soleares or alegrias.
The name derives from the Spanish word burlar, meaning 'to mock,' or bullería, 'racket, shouting, din.' It is among the most popular and dramatic flamenco forms and frequently closes flamenco gatherings. The style permits great improvisational freedom, with the metre playing a crucial role. Speed, agility, total rhythmic control, and foot strength are required for intricate tapping with toe, heel, and ball of the foot.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- Calé Romani people of Jerez, 19th century
- Tempo range
- 195–240 beats per minute
- Common mode
- A-phrygian (por medio) with sharpened third
- Typical chord pattern
- A and B♭ chords with golpes
- Counting method (pepe romero)
- 2 measures of 3/4 followed by 3 measures of 2/4
- Line structure when sung
- Three or four octosyllabic lines
- Subtypes
- Bulerías al golpe (slower) and bulerías ligadas (frantic)
Facts from the source article.
More in Spanish Folk Music
Sources
Compiled from Wikipedia and the sources listed below. Text from Wikipedia is available under CC BY-SA 4.0; this entry is adapted from it.
- Wikipedia: Bulerías (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced
