The Summer Courses of the University of Almería are hosting the XI edition of ‘Sonanta’ for three days, a masterclass considered among the students' best-rated activities, set to fill the program with flamenco chords. The start of this workshop was marked by the suspension of its traditional official presentation, a measure adopted in solidarity with those affected by and the victims of the Los Gallardos fire.
This masterclass, part of the Almería Flamenco Festival and supported by the Almería City Council and the Peña El Taranto, has seen a successful turnout. The course director, Carmen Hernández, explained that enrollment initially closed at 30 students and had to be expanded due to high demand, maintaining 50% of students from previous courses while attracting a new wave of participants.
Hernández highlighted the workshop's high average rating, close to 10, driven by the caliber of the top-tier speakers: Tomatito and José del Tomate. Both artists generously share their knowledge with humility and approachability. On the first day, two of Tomatito's grandsons surprised attendees by singing and playing along with their grandfather's guitar.
José Fernández ‘Tomatito’ approaches this new edition with great enthusiasm, satisfied with the response from the over 30 enrolled students. He stated that the students are affectionate, come to learn, and have a good time, describing the classroom atmosphere as familial. He noted the students' great respect and how they use the sessions to resolve specific technical doubts, such as the correct way to execute the “rajeado”.
The flamenco guitarist emphasized that a good musician must listen extensively to the singing, always remembering it when drawing inspiration and composing. He also indicated the importance of falling in love with the instrument and continuously learning, as a guitarist never stops learning. He confirmed his full willingness to continue leading future editions of this workshop in his homeland.
The course is characterized by improvisation and the rhythm set by the students in each session, offering them the opportunity to enjoy the technique, knowledge, and values of an artist like Tomatito, considered the best living flamenco guitarist and a primary ambassador for the entire genre. Furthermore, his son, José del Tomate, has proven to be a great teacher in all editions, growing as an artist and currently preparing his second album.
