Flamenco’s origins are cloaked in centuries of cultural fusion. While the genre wasn’t mentioned by name until 1774 in José de Cadalso’s Cartas Marruecas, its roots stretch far back to the Al-Andalusian era (8th to 15th centuries). But what musical pathways led to Flamenco as we know it today? Lux Musicae London’s upcoming album, The Secrets of Andalusia, seeks to answer this fascinating question.

This recording is a collaboration between Lux Musicae London and guest artists Victoria Couper (soprano), kanun player Konstantinos Glynos, and flamenco guitarist/oud player Ignacio Lusardi Monteverde. Together, they trace Flamenco’s deep influences through Arabic music, Sephardic song and the works of Spanish composers from the late 16th to 18th centuries.

The interplay of baroque guitar, lute, harp, kanun, oud and viola da gamba, woven together with expressive vocals, reveals the intricate layers of these diverse musical traditions.

The Secrets of Andalusia will be released on 24 January 2025 and is available to pre-purchase at First Hand Records. Singles from the upcoming release can be streamed on Spotify and Apple Music.

This recording project was supported by a grant from Continuo Foundation. There will be an opportunity to hear this programme live at the Secrets of Andalusia CD Launch concert on 25 January 2025 in London, also supported by Continuo Foundation.