Folk dances are linked to the traditions of a town.
Folklore or folklore refers to the beliefs, practices and customs that are traditional to a people or culture . This includes stories, crafts, music and dance, for example. Dance , on the other hand, is the action of dancing , that is, the execution of movement to the rhythm of music.
These two definitions allow us to approach the concept of folk dance , which are the typical and traditional dances of a culture . Folk dance is usually performed by tradition (it is not an innovative art) and can be danced by any man and woman (it is not exclusive to professional dancers, although there may be professional folk dance groups).
Characteristics of folk dance
In addition to all this, it is important to establish two more characteristics that define what folk dance is. On the one hand we come across the fact that, as a general rule, it is not danced by the aristocracy but by the common people and it is also necessary to highlight that this type of dance has given rise in many cases to new modern dances.
This type of dance is performed especially during social events such as parties and commemorations. The youngest learn by watching the elders dance, who are responsible for teaching the secrets of each dance to perpetuate the tradition.
The polka and the jota
The polka , a type of dance that emerged in the Bohemian region during the first half of the 19th century , is an example of European folk dance. It is characterized by a fast tempo, in 2/4 time that requires quick movements and agility .
In the case of Spain we find various types of folk dance. So, for example, one of them is the jack. Bandurrias and guitars are fundamentally the musical instruments used to perform this type of piece that the dancers then dance dressed in the typical regional costumes of each autonomous community and at the same time that they themselves play castanets.
It is common for folk dances to be danced at festivities and special events.
Flamenco, a folk dance
In the same way, we cannot ignore the fact that one of the most important Spanish folk dances is flamenco dancing. In the 18th century, and specifically in Andalusia, flamenco in general emerged, both music and dance, which is currently cataloged as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Among the many flamenco dancers, we must highlight great figures such as Sara Baras, Joaquín Cortés, Antonio Gades, Carmen Amaya, La Argentinita or La Chunga. They and many others are the ones who have taken this folk dance around the world, making it an art of great recognition and greatly admired throughout the entire planet.
The cases of belly dance and chacarera
Another folk dance that has transcended the world is belly dancing , which combines elements from the Middle East and North Africa , although it has been updated with Western influences.
In Argentina and part of Bolivia , a very popular folk dance is the chacarera , whose music is performed with guitar, violin and bass drum. The rhythmic basis of the chacarera is shared by other folk dances, such as the gato (which is also danced in Uruguay ).