This spring marked an exciting first for Flamenco Vivo, the start of a new kind of educational programming for us: centering the guitar! While music is deeply integrated into our arts education residencies through history, rhythm, song, and even cajones, guitar instruction had been out of reach until now given the instrument’s cost and skill barriers.

That’s why we were especially thrilled to offer our first flamenco guitar masterclasses to students in May. The idea came to life in collaboration with flamenco guitarist José Manuel León during his time in NYC performing with renowned dancer Olga Pericet. An esteemed musician, José Manuel is also a passionate advocate of flamenco as a tool for empowerment with marginalized youth. That shared commitment and educational expertise made his visit the ideal opportunity to initiate Flamenco Vivo’s guitar offerings. Together, we brought high-caliber flamenco guitar instruction to students at two public schools with music programs and hosted an Encuentro in our studios, where José Manuel performed and shared insights into his artistic practice and social mission.

Watch the recap above.