A Journey of the Soul
At Hojas de Laurel, we see flamenco not just as a discipline, but as a journey of the soul—one that blends dedication with deep emotional expression.
A Welcoming Space to Learn, Express, and Belong
Hojas de Laurel Flamenco Dance Academy is a dance studio in Salt Lake City dedicated to teaching and sharing the deep and beautiful art of flamenco. Rooted in tradition and shaped by personal experience, our mission is to cultivate both technical precision and emotional expression in every dancer—and in everyone who feels the movement within them. We offer classes in both English and Spanish, welcoming all levels and backgrounds.
Learn About Our ClassesWhat Makes Hojas de Laurel Unique
Named after the laurel leaf—a symbol of honor and victory—our Flamenco studio in Salt Lake City is a space for growth, artistic expression, and community.
We teach Flamenco in Salt Lake City. Flamenco offers a rare and powerful opportunity to express the joys and sorrows of life in the most honest and uninhibited way.
Hojas de Laurel Academy is rooted in years of study and performance. Our instructor trained in Spain with renowned artists, blending deep technique with expressive artistry.
Our classes often feature live music and guest artists like flamenco guitarist like Amir Sadeghi, adding depth and authenticity to each show, highlight the vibrant spirit of flamenco.
Katie Brown: Founder, Teacher, Flamenco Artist
Origins and Passion for Flamenco
Katie Brown is a passionate flamenco dancer whose journey began while living in Spain and traveling to Huelva, Andalusia—a place where flamenco seems to flow through the water and the veins of every person. After returning from Spain, Katie began dancing in 2017 with Tablado Dance Company in Salt Lake City. That same year, she started performing with the group in shows such as Andalucía, Uno, Dos y Tres, and Ida y Vuelta.
Professional Training and Mentorship
In the fall of 2019, Katie began studying flamenco intensively with Patricia Linares—recipient of a special mention in the Concurso Nacional del Flamenco in 1986 and participant in 1989—completing her studies with her in August 2024. Katie is currently training privately with Susanna Garo Davo in Seville through Arte Arrebol. Her studies have also included work with renowned dancers such as Ursula Moreno (Málaga), Amelia Vega (Madrid), Juan Polvillo (Seville), and Talegona (Seville).
Rhythm, Song, and Ongoing Development
Katie began learning palmas with La Chivis in San Miguel de Allende in the winter of 2020 and has studied cante with professional singer Marcos Martínez in Seville, also through Arte Arrebol. She has participated in the Curso Internacional del Flamenco in La Puebla de Cazalla and Málaga in 2018, 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively.
Courses & Packages
Classes in Spanish and EnglishDance Classes:
- Footwork technique
- Arm technique
- Body technique
- Choreography
- Shawl (mantón) technique
- Bata de cola technique (extended, long skirt with ruffles)
- Hand and wrist technique (floreo)
Rhythm and Accompaniment:
- Flamenco rhythms
- Clapping (palmas)
- Understanding the measures and types of flamenco
- How to engage in the artistic conversation between singer, dancer, and guitarist
Additional Training:
- Castanets (castañuelas): technique and rhythm
- History of flamenco, its most influential artists, and different song types
- Song forms (palos) and their characteristics
Pricing:
$10
Individual
Class
$30
Monthly Pass
(1x Week)
$60
Monthly Pass
(2x Week)
$25/Hr.
Private
Session
Class Times:
Our class schedule varies depending on current offerings and student levels. We regularly update our classes based on demand, including beginner and advanced sessions. Please contact us directly for the most up-to-date information on available classes and times.
Call or Text
(435) 851-6615
Google Maps
8496 S Harrison Cir #108,
Midvale, UT 84047
Join us for your first class. Call now to reserve your spot and experience the rhythm for yourself!
Call us TodayWe're here to help! Fill out the form or reach out to us directly via email, text, or phone. We'd love to hear from you and answer any questions about our classes, schedule, or upcoming events.
(435) 851-6615
hojasdelaurelflamenco@gmail.com
Explore the roots of Flamenco
History of Flamenco
Flamenco: A Dance with Deep Cultural Roots
Flamenco is a powerful and expressive dance that originated in Andalusia, southern Spain. It emerged from a rich blend of cultural influences—including Andalusian, Moorish, Jewish, and Romani (Gitano) traditions.
The earliest references date back to the 18th century, although its roots stretch much further. What we now call flamenco took shape in intimate social settings, known as juergas or family gatherings, where music, song, and dance expressed the full range of human emotion—grief, joy, longing, defiance, and passion.
19th Century
Throughout the 19th century, flamenco transitioned from private gatherings to public venues like cafés cantantes, where it gained recognition. It was during this time that flamenco began to develop its rich array of palos—distinct song and rhythm forms, such as Soleá, Alegrías, Bulerías, Tientos, Tarantos, and many more. Each palo has its own emotional quality, regional roots, and specific rhythmic structure (compás).
20th Century
The 20th century saw flamenco evolve again—first through the influence of classical music and ballet, and later through fusion with jazz, Latin, and modern styles. Despite these innovations, traditional flamenco remains a revered and protected cultural treasure. In 2010, UNESCO recognized flamenco as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, affirming its global cultural value.
Today
Today, flamenco continues to inspire artists and audiences around the world. It remains an art that cannot be faked—it demands truth, discipline, and emotional honesty.
Flamenco is built on three foundational elements:
El Cante (the song):
Raw, emotional, and deeply personal
El Baile (the dance):
Powerful, grounded, and expressive
La Guitarra (the guitar):
Rhythmic, melodic, and often improvisational
El Duende
Built on three essential pillars—guitar, song, and dance—flamenco is a magical collaboration that gives rise to what is known as El Duende. This is not simply a technique or performance concept, but something that transcends logic. It is the moment when the artist pours their soul onto the stage, creating pure, unfiltered art and touching a level of emotional truth that borders on perfection.
Learning Library
Explore our video library designed to deepen your understanding of flamenco—its rhythms, movements, and rich cultural roots. Curated by Katie Brown, drawing from her years of study in Spain, these resources offer guidance, inspiration, and insight for dancers at any level.
Photo Gallery
