The Bolero is a popular Spanish dance of the late 18th and early 19th Centuries. It originated from the folk dance the Seguidilla from Madrid and Andalusia. One of the palos (styles) of flamenco is derived directly from the dance, the Seguidillas Boleras.
This piece moves from a dance feel to a more melodic feel, relating somewhat to a group performance where the dancer would dance and then the singer would sing, or the guitarist would play accompanying interludes in between the singing. Taking this approach will help you in managing the technical challenges and also create appropriate phrasing.
This piece will be a challenge for intermediate players in parts but the lively Spanish dance feel is really attractive and fun and worth the effort. Arcas was a teacher and friend of Tarrega. His music is quite important in the Classsical and Spanish guitar repertoire.
