Compas is one of the most important concepts to grasp in Flamenco music. Compas is the rhythm cycle of a Flamenco piece. Each Flamenco form has its own unique compas, giving each its distinctive rhythm and emotional flavor.
The compas of Solea is a twelve-beat cycle with the grouping 3 + 3 + 2 + 2 + 2 .
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/embed/g2jbdrOzngc[/youtube]As you see on the video, emphasize the last beat of each grouping, just as the instructor demonstrates on the video clip. This emphasis is important, because it is part of the traditional structure of compas in Flamenco music, and one more thing that distinguishes it from other music. After you get comfortable with this basic rhythm, try the next two drills with the downbeats and upbeats.
In your next lesson, you will achieve a milestone in your training as a Flamenco guitarist–your first Soleares falsetta.
