Acclaimed modern flamenco ensemble Bandaluzia, led by ARIA-nominated guitarist Damian Wright, embodies the rich layers of the Spanish artform.

The band is being brought back to Candelo by popular demand for a performance followed by a day of workshops to teach some of the secrets of flamenco. 

Speaking after a day of playing music, Wright said he was drawn to the rawness of the artform. 

“It has the beauty of classical guitar mixed with the earthy nature of folk music,” he said. 

“The most difficult thing is the language of the artform – you can’t just learn pieces and replicate them, you have to immerse yourself in the language and use that style to express yourself in the flamenco community around you.” 

He said it was based upon many different styles of music such as those from India, northern Africa, as well as containing influences from the Moors’ occupation of Spain and Jewish and Christian cultures. 

After starting guitar at age six, Wright found flamenco when he was a teenager and has since immersed himself in the world, living in Spain for five years in order to learn from a teacher. 

In Bandaluzia he is joined by brothers Ben Hauptmann on guitar and James Hauptmann on percussion. 

It also features dancer Jessica Statham, who occasionally leads the music. 

The band’s musicians are known for their powerful performances, unique sound and explosive displays of dazzling musicianship and virtuosity. 

The band is also revered for its ability to mix elements of other genres into its performances. Whether the rich harmonies of jazz, the exotic melodies of the Orient or the infectious rhythms of South America, it is an experience that ignites the senses. 

Flamenco dance teacher Veronica Valderrama, who runs classes at Funhouse Studio in Bega, will help with a dance workshop on the day after the concert.

She said the workshop was open to the public and will be a simple class.

“If people like dancing, if they like music, then they should come – it’s so much fun,” the ex-professional ballet dancer said.

“I think it’s fantastic that people love flamenco, love a different culture.

“I think dancing is medicine, medicine for your life.”

Bandaluzia will perform at the Candelo Town Hall on December 9 from 8pm with tickets $25/20 at the door.

Flamenco workshops will be held on December 10 at the hall, with guitar from 10.30am and dance from 12pm. The cost is $20.