About Us

The National Institute of Flamenco (NIF) is a unique, nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the art, culture and history of flamenco.  Located in downtown Albuquerque, NM, NIF offers a full flamenco curriculum for all ages and experience levels through the National Conservatory of Flamenco Arts.  NIF proudly hosts exceptional performances by world famous flamenco artists throughout the year. Flamenco is the ancient form of artistic expression in the Spanish Gypsy culture.  As an enduring oral tradition, the art and spirit of flamenco is passed from generation to generation.  The song, dance and music of flamenco explore the full range of human emotion with an intense, vibrant quality that leaves audiences spellbound.  NIF is committed to providing the public with a greater understanding and appreciation of this cultural treasure.

NIF founder Eva Encinias-Sandoval learned flamenco as a child from her grandmother and continues her family legacy with pride.  Her daughter, Marisol and son, Joaquin are acclaimed performers and instructors with NIF. Founded in 1987, NIF has developed into three branches of focus: Educating, Performing, and Presenting.

The NIF Educating branch includes the Conservatory for Flamenco Arts – offering year round classes in flamenco dance, music and song; diverse community outreach programs and a flamenco media archive nearing completion.

The NIF Performing branch includes three outstanding performing groups: Yjastros – the American Flamenco Repertory Company, a national touring company featuring top U.S. flamenco dancers under the direction of Joaquin Encinias.  Alma Flamenca, a pre-professional company of accomplished students from NIF's Conservatory of Flamenco Arts and the flamenco emphasis program at the University of New Mexico.  Niños Flamencos including some of the Conservatory's best young students, ages 5 to 14.

The NIF Presenting branch supports the preservation and evolution of flamenco by hosting some of the most important flamenco performers and educators in the world throughout the year.  In addition, each June NIF hosts the Festival Flamenco Internacional.  Held at the University of New Mexico, FFI is the largest event of its kind in North America.  It attracts guest artists, students of all levels and ages, and flamenco fans from around the globe to study all aspects of flamenco.  FFI is famous for its many thrilling, full house performances by guest artists and local flamenco favorites.  Flamenco experts in Spain recognize this dynamic festival as the most important flamenco event in this part of the world.

Marisol Encinias	National Institute of Flamenco	Poster Festival 2008	Poster Flamenco Kids Camp 2008
Yjastros Noche Gitana	Yjastros Sunset

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