Article

“Clap Your Hands”: Gender Role Distribution in Flamenco Guitar

Massimo Cattaneo

Published in: Ethnomusicology Ireland 7 (2021)

Pages: 61-81 | Published Online: April 2021

https://doi.org/10.64208/BATP3543

Abstract

This article analyses gender imbalance among guitar players in flamenco. While women participate in flamenco as singers and dancers, their presence as instrumentalists is largely eclipsed by men. Using fieldwork data collected through ethnographic research and situating this in existing scholarship, I identify patterns and recent changes in trends. I argue that a series of transformations that have taken place in flamenco are contributing, although slowly, to a positive change in gender representation among flamenco performers. The article concludes by suggesting future approaches to address gender inequality which may help ensure equal gender opportunities for flamenco instrumentalists.

Keywords: Women, imbalance, flamenco, guitar, instruments

Author: Massimo Cattaneo