Fandango

What is Fandango?

The fandango is a lively partner dance that originated in Spain. It is typically performed in a triple meter rhythm, often starting slowly before increasing in speed. Dancers use guitars, castanets, tambourines, or hand-clapping for accompaniment. The dance can be sung as well as performed physically, featuring octosyllabic verses known as coplas. Couples move together in a structured pattern, while other variations allow for solo footwork displays within a group setting.

Where does Fandango come from?

The earliest known melody appears in a 1705 guitar book, with the first written description of the dance coming from a priest in 1712. By the 1720s, it was appearing in theatrical works in Seville. The dance gained popularity among European aristocracy in the late 18th century, appearing in operas and ballets. Its exact roots are debated, with claims linking it to various Andalusian dances like the soleá and malagueña, as well as gitano traditions. Church authorities initially condemned it as godless, but dancers proved its appeal, leading to its acceptance.

How is Fandango danced?

In the Spanish tradition, couples begin slowly and gradually increase their tempo. The choreography follows a specific harmonic progression. In Portugal, the dance often features two male dancers facing each other, taking turns to perform intricate tap-dancing footwork to show off lightness and skill. While one dancer performs, the other accompanies the rhythm. The Philippine adaptation, Pandanggo sa Ilaw, involves balancing oil lamps on the head and hands, adding a layer of physical balance to the rhythmic stepping.

The music of Fandango

The music is characterized by a triple meter, originally notated in 6/8 time but later shifting to 3/4. Sung versions follow a structure of instrumental introductions followed by variations on four or five verse phrases. Guitars provide the primary harmonic support, often joined by castanets or tambourines. The rhythm is distinctively Spanish, influencing classical composers like Mozart and Gluck, who incorporated fandango themes into their operas and ballets.

Costume and what is carried

Specific costume details are not described in the sources. However, the dance is traditionally accompanied by the use of castanets held in the hands. In the Mexican Veracruz tradition, dancers perform atop a large wooden platform called a Tarima, which serves as both a stage and a percussive instrument through their footwork. The Portuguese Campinos wear traditional rural attire when performing the Ribatejo variant.

When and where Fandango is danced

The fandango is danced at social gatherings, festivals, and religious celebrations. In Mexico, it is central to community parties where musicians play Son Jarocho music. In the Philippines, it appears in devotional dances honoring saints, such as the Obando Fertility Rites. Historically, it was performed in theaters and aristocratic salons. The dance is passed down through community participation and local adaptation, evolving into distinct regional styles across different countries.

Styles of Fandango

Many varieties exist, including the fandangos grandes, which are danced by couples, and the livelier fandanguillos. Regional Spanish styles include those from Huelva and Málaga (Verdiales). Northern Spain preserves a more relaxed version. In Portugal, the Ribatejo form is prominent, often performed by Campinos. The Philippines developed the Pandanggo sa Ilaw and used the fandango rhythm for dances like Cariñosa. Each region has adapted the core structure to local musical and cultural preferences.

What Fandango means

The word fandango has entered common usage to describe a quarrel or a foolish act, reflecting its historically extravagant nature. It holds significant cultural status in Spain and Portugal as a folk heritage dance. In the Philippines, it represents a key element of colonial-era dance history, adapted by both upper classes and rural masses. Classical composers have frequently used its form, cementing its place in Western music history beyond its folk origins.

Questions people ask about Fandango

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle

• Fandango on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos and video on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Fandango on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo