Soleares is perhaps the most important toque in the study of the Flamenco guitar. Soleares epitomizes the heart and soul of Flamenco music, embodying its vital core: rhythm and harmony. In fact, the rhythmic structure (‘compas’) plays such a central role, that when a guitarist truly masters the compas, he or she is well on the road toward becoming a skilled virtuoso in the art of Flamenco guitar. In Andalusia, the region of Spain where Flamenco got its start, every student of the Flamenco guitar begins with its study. Furthermore, Soleares is a foundational toque; many other toques have developed from its inspiration. As a guitarist, learn to dominate this toque, absorbing its powerful momentum into your very bones. If it takes driving your friends and family nearly mad with hearing you play, do so, for it is the very nature of Flamenco music.
With respect to its origins, the roots of Soleares are uncertain and controversial, as so often is the case in Flamenco and other traditional art forms. The Triana district of Sevilla was probably the most influential center of its development. Other locations, however, have influenced Soleares, giving it their own distinctive flavors. Some historians claim that Canas and Polos are the oldest forms, others suggest that Soleares was earlier than those, claiming that its heritage came from more lighthearted toques which were used as accompaniments for dances. Today, however, the Toque por Soleares is solemn and majestic, rich in passion, whether used as a guitar solo, or as an accompaniment to song or dance.
The origin of the word ‘Soleares’ comes from the word ‘solea,’ whose origin is probably a corruption of ‘soledad,’ which means ‘solitude’ or ‘loneliness.’ The melancholy coplas (song-verses) of the cante can be ironically philosophical or romantic, but with the overarching themes of tragedy, desolation and death.
