About the classes taught

Classes taught:

• Argentine Tango

  Beginning Argentine Tango:
  This course introduces the fundamental techniques and movement elements characteristic of the Argentine Tango. The basics of salida, caminar, and el ocho are presented. The traditional hold and the principles of leading and following with the body are developed.

  Intermediate Argentine Tango: Fundamentals presented in level 1 are reinforced and the back ocho, boleos and vueltas are introduced. Working on the same foot (contrapaso) and cambio are developed.

  Advanced Argentine Tango:
  As we continue the development of caminar and the ochos both forward and backward, we begin working outside partner on the left. Also introduced at this level are pasadas, sacadas and molinete. Because the content varies from session to session, this course presents students with the opportunity for continued study.

  Composition, and the development of Traditional and individual style, partnering skills and musicality are addressed at all levels.

• Lindy/Swing
  We teach a versatile form of Swing, a lounge style, which uses both 6 and 8 count moves, with a basic triple-step rhythm. This form supports a great variety of improvisation.

  Level 1
  This course presents a basic dance of the most common 6 count swing moves. Also introduced is the 8 count lindy turn. The techniques of leading and following, footwork and improvisation are addressed.

  Level 2
  Continuing the development of the basic dance as presented in level 1, this level introduces a variety of new 6 and 8 count figures. Because of the great number of moves at this level, the program is divided into three sections designated a, b & c. The sections are not sequential, i.e., it is not necessary to begin study at level 2 by taking 2a. Level 2b could just as easily follow level 1. Each section is self-contained & includes a set of figures taught in all sections of level 2, and a set of figures presented only in the designated section. It is suggested that the student take all three sections before progressing to level 3.

  Level 3
  The emphasis in level 3 is on the creative and improvisational techniques of the dance. The figures presented in each section of this level are used to address advanced topics in Swing dancing, such as splicing and breaking. The techniques of alternative rhythm and syncopation are developed.

• Social Dance 1 (Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Rumba)
  Learn the fundamentals of ballroom dancing and take the floor with grace and confidence. This course will introduce fundamental rhythms, movement techniques & partnering for Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha and Rumba. If you've never danced before, this is an excellent place to start.

• Waltz II
  This course will continue to add dance figures and refine technique in the Waltz. Material added this session will augment what was presented last session.

• Foxtrot
  Using the fundamental elements of Foxtrot presented in Social Dance 1, we'll add more dance figures and refine technique. Prior experience with Foxtrot is helpful, but not necessary.

• Rumba
  This course will present fundamental elements of this popular latin dance. Especial attention will be paid to developing the body action characteristic of Rumba.

• Viennese Waltz: This brisk turning dance may be danced to the Blue Danube and other Strauss Waltzes.

• Cha Cha & Rumba: These Cuban dances are now found in ballrooms worldwide. Cha Cha, Rumba, Mambo, and Salsa form a family of related dances.

  

• Salsa: This is a Latin club dance based on the Cuban Mambo.

• Quickstep: Some songs like the Fred Astaire dance number "Cheek to Cheek" are played a bit faster than the average Foxtrot. The dance that is done to this music is QUickstep. This is a beginning level course, but experience with Foxtrot helps.

• Basic Ballroom: The basic movements of waltz, foxtrot, and quickstep.