Classes >> American Rhythm Style

Bolero - Originally a Spanish dance in 3/4 time, it was changed in Cuba, initially into 2/4 time, then eventually into 4/4. It is now presented as a very slow type of Rumba rhythm. The music for Bolero is usually arranged with Spanish Vocals and a subtle percussion effect, usually using Congas or Bongos. Although you can use some English ballads as well.

Cha Cha - The Dance of Flirtation! This is an exciting, syncopated, Latin dance, which originated in the 1950’s as a slowed down Mambo. The Cha Cha gathers its personality, character, rhythm, basis, and charm from two major dance sources. It is a derivation of the Mambo through its Latin music, and it is also a stepchild of the Swing, as it is danced to a 1-2-3 step rhythm. The Cha Cha gets its name and character from its distinct repetitive foot rhythm.

Mambo - Mambo grew out of the Danzon (national music of Cuba), and was popular with the American dance scene at the end of World War II. Down the line, fast Swing-Jazz and upbeat Latin music joined in to form the updated and uninhibited Mambo. The Mambo may look similar to Salsa but its break is on two, unlike the Salsa, the break is on one. Also, Mambo is a compact dance, taking smaller steps and dancing on spot.

Rumba - The rumba was originally a courtship, marriage, and street dance that was African in origin. The Rumba met some opposition from society’s upper crust because of its suggestive body and hip movements. The Rumba is also known as the, “box step”, taking each step without initially placing weight on that step. Steps are made with a slightly bent knee which, when straightened, causes the hips to sway from side to side which is called, “Cuban Motion”.

Samba - A lively Brazilian dance which was first introduced in 1917 and was finally adopted as a ballroom dance by the Brazilian society in 1930. The style is to bounce steadily, yet smoothly in a 2/4 meter.