Ballroom Dancing: Posture, Steps, Styles & Music

Ballroom Dancing: Posture, Steps, Styles & Music

Ballroom dancing: Ballroom dances are performed by couples or soloists in an open space or ballroom. Dance is a sequence of learned movements to the rhythm of music; the format and choreography depend on the dance style. The dance involves coordinated changes of feet, body and arms to the rhythm of the music. The room or dance space provides access to a dance floor and rest areas; some venues also have outdoor tracks. A dance space is occupied by each dancing couple on the floor.

Line of Dance and Floor Direction

The line of dance is the direction couples move around the floor, typically counter-clockwise. The leader (traditionally called the boy) travels along the line of dance and the couple advances around the track in sequence.

Position and Posture

1. Back straight and head lifted.
2. Hand placement: The leader's left hand holds the follower's right hand; the follower's left hand rests on the leader's shoulder.

Transitions, Steps and Coordination

The transition refers to the coordinated footwork between partners. Each dance modality has its basic steps and, in addition, many other figures. Coordination of steps is complementary between leader and follower: the leader initiates and the follower responds. The emphasis should be on healthy, elegant movement, not just isolated foot action.

Musical Meter

The meter varies by dance style. Common meters include:

• 2/4 — for example, Tango and Paso Doble
• 3/4 — English Waltz and Viennese Waltz
• 4/4 — Rumba and Rock

Figures: Simple and Complex

Figures can be simple or complex. Complex figures combine several simple figures and often include turns or rotations. The choreography translates musical accents into movement; dancers should aim for clarity and musicality.

Attire

Women usually dance in dresses or skirts and men generally wear jackets. Costuming should allow freedom of movement and complement the style of the dance.

Qualities of Ballroom Dancing

Qualities include:

• Pacing and timing to match the music
• Ability to read and feel the music
• Relatively easy to learn basic steps
• A physical activity accessible to many people
• Technique and personal style are important
• Partner communication: dancing in pairs enhances mutual understanding
• Social and recreational enjoyment

Choreography and Musicality

Choreography should create sequences that accentuate the rhythm and composition of each dance. You can choose many kinds of music; choreography should render musical phrasing into clear, expressive movement.

Lesson Standards

Standard dances commonly taught include:

• Viennese Waltz
• English Waltz
• Slow Foxtrot
• Quickstep
• Tango
• Rock

Latin Dances

Popular Latin dances include: Rumba, Samba, Cha-Cha-Cha, Paso Doble, and Jive.