Sports ballroom dance. Ballroom dancing

Ballroom dance must be performed in pairs. Such dances today are usually called standardized dance Sport executable on dance competitions and special events. Today in the world of dance there are two main classifications, together consisting of ten dance styles: European and Latin American programs. Read more about dancing below.

History of ballroom dance

The origin of the concept of “ballroom dance” comes from Latin word"ballare" meaning "to dance". In past times, such dances were secular and intended only for high-ranking people, while folk dances remained for the poor. Since then, such a class division in dance, of course, no longer exists, and many ballroom dances are actually ennobled folk dances. In particular, for modern ballroom dancing big influence influenced by the culture of African and Latin American peoples.

What is called ballroom dance depends on the era. At balls in different time Various dances were presented, such as polonaise, mazurka, minuet, polka, quadrille and others, which are now considered historical.

In the 1920s, the Ballroom Dancing Council was founded in Great Britain. Thanks to his activities, ballroom dance then acquired a competition format and began to be divided into two groups - sports and so-called social dances. The program included: waltz, tango, as well as slow and fast types of foxtrot.

During the period of the 30s - 50s, the number of dances increased: the following pairs were included in the program Latin American dances, like rumba, samba, cha-cha-cha, paso doble and jive. However, in the 60s, ballroom dancing ceased to be an ordinary entertainment, since it required certain technical training from the dancers, and was supplanted by a new dance called the twist, which did not need to be danced in pairs.

European program dances

The program of European dances, or Standard, includes: slow waltz, tango, foxtrot, quickstep and Viennese waltz.

Slow waltz

IN XVII century The waltz was a folk dance in Austrian and Bavarian villages, and only at the beginning of the 19th century was it introduced at balls in England. It was considered vulgar back then because it was the first ballroom dance where a dancer could hold his partner so close to him. Since then the waltz has taken many different forms, but each of them is united by unique elegance and romantic mood.

The peculiarity of the waltz is time signature three-quarter time and slow tempo (up to thirty beats per minute). You can master its basic figures at home on your own.

Tango is a ballroom dance originating in Argentina. late XIX century. At first, tango was part of the Latin American dance program, but then it was transferred to the standard European program.

Perhaps, having seen tango at least once, subsequently everyone will be able to recognize this dance - this assertive, passionate manner cannot be confused with anything. A feature of tango is a sweeping step over the entire foot, which distinguishes it from the classic “flow” from heel to toe.

Slow foxtrot

The Foxtrot is a relatively simple ballroom dance that gives beginners an excellent foundation for further development. Foxtrot can be danced at a slow, medium or fast tempo, which allows even beginners without special skills to move gracefully across the floor. The dance is quite easy to learn from scratch.

main feature Foxtrot is an alternation of fast and slow rhythms, but the steps must be smooth and light, which should give the impression that the dancers are fluttering above the hall.

Quickstep

Quickstep appeared in the 20s of the XX century as a combination of foxtrot and Charleston. Musical groups At that time they played music that was too fast for foxtrot movements, so they were modified into quickstep. Since then, as it has evolved, this ballroom dance has become even more dynamic, allowing dancers to show off their technique and athleticism.

The quickstep combines many different elements such as chassis, progressive turns and steps, to name a few.

Viennese Waltz- one of the oldest ballroom dances, which is performed at a fast pace, characterizing the first waltzes. The golden age of the Viennese waltz in Europe was early XIX century, when he still lived and worked famous composer Johann Strauss. The popularity of this waltz rose and fell, but it never went out of fashion.

The size of the Viennese waltz is the same as that of the slow one, it is three quarters, and the number of beats per second is twice as large - sixty.

Latin dances

The Latin American dance program is usually represented by the following sports ballroom dances: cha-cha-cha, samba, rumba, jive and paso doble.

Samba

This ballroom dance is considered national dance Brazil. The world began to discover samba in 1905, but this ballroom dance became a sensation in the United States only in the 40s thanks to the singer and movie star Carmen Miranda. Samba has many varieties, for example, samba, which is danced on Brazilian carnivals, and a ballroom dance with the same name are not the same thing.

Samba combines many of the movements that distinguish other Latin American ballroom dances: there are circular movements of the hips, “springy” legs, and measured rotations. However, it is not very popular for learning: the fast pace of performance and the need for physical preparation often deprive beginning dancers of enthusiasm.

The name of this dance is a reference to the sounds that dancers make with their feet while dancing to the maracas rhythm. The dance evolved from rumba and mambo dance. Mambo was widespread in the USA, but under its fast music It was very difficult to dance, so the Cuban composer Enrique Jorin made the music slower - and the cha-cha-cha dance was born.

A special feature of the cha-cha-cha is the so-called triple step on two counts. This feature made the cha-cha-cha a separate dance, distinguishing it from mambo, although other movements are quite similar to this style. The cha-cha-cha is also characterized by minimal movement around the hall; basically, this ballroom dance is performed almost in one place.

Rumba has quite rich history- it arose simultaneously and how musical genre, and as a dance style whose roots go back to Africa. Rumba is a very rhythmic and complex dance that has given rise to many other dance styles, including salsa.

Previously, this Latin American dance was considered too vulgar due to its relaxed movements. It is still called the dance of love. The mood of the dance can change during its performance - from measured to aggressive. The performance style is reminiscent of mambo and cha-cha-cha styles. The main measures of rumba are QQS or SQQ (from English S - “slow” - “slow” and Q - “quick” - “fast”).

"Paso doble" means "two steps" in Spanish, which defines its marching nature. It is a powerful and rhythmic dance characterized by a straight back, eyebrow gaze and dramatic poses. Among many other Latin American dances, Paso Doble is notable for the fact that you will not find African roots in its origin.

This Spanish folk dance was inspired by bullfighting, with the man invariably portraying the matador tamer and the woman playing the role of his cape or bull. However, when performing a paso doble at dance competitions, the partner never portrays a bull - only a cape. Due to its stylization and large quantity According to the rules, this ballroom dance is practically not performed outside of dance competitions.

Jive

Jive originated in African American clubs in the early 40s. The word "jive" itself means "misleading chatter" - a popular slang word among African Americans of the time. US military personnel brought the dance to England during World War II. There, jive was adapted to British pop music and took the form it has today.

A characteristic feature of jive is the fast pace of the dance, thanks to which the movements come out springy. Another feature of jive is straight legs. This sporty ballroom dance can be danced on either a six-beat count or an eight-beat count.

Having heard the expression “ballroom dancing”, many will begin to imagine girls in beautiful fluffy dresses with rings, men in black tailcoats, classical music. This is all for the reason that the very word “ball” is associated with the royal receptions that we read about in fairy tales in our distant childhood. For example, in "Cinderella" or "Sleeping Beauty".

What kind of dance is this?

Dance is a form of creativity in which characters and characters are created through various body movements. artistic images. Dance is very closely related to music. It is their overall interaction that emotionally affects the viewer.

The word “dance” came into Russian from the French (ballare - “to dance”). Ballroom dancing have their own distinctive features:

  • They are performed by two people.
  • A couple consists of a man and a woman, they move, observing the points of contact.

This direction has its own history, which has given it popularity as both a new type of recreation and a new sport in which competitions are held.

A little history

Non-professional pair dances are called ballroom dances. They take their history from medieval Europe. Over the course of several hundred years, they have changed a lot. All eras contributed something of their own.

Twentieth century dances are a continuation of the European style. Large quantity directions that have survived to this day are of African origin, but not in pure form, but with complemented technology of the European school.

In the 20s of the last century, a specially created Council of Teachers led to a single standard for all dances popular at that time, namely the waltz, foxtrot and tango. This is how a dance competition was formed in two directions: sports and social dance. In the period from the 30s to the 50s of the last century, the number of standard ballroom dances grew due to the addition of several directions of the Latin American school: rumba, samba, jive, paso doble, cha-cha-cha.

On this moment There are three competitive programs: Latin American, European and ten, which includes all ten areas.

European program

Let's look at each of the three dances in detail.

  • Slow waltz - anyone can learn to dance this dance. It is danced at discos, at proms, and at balls. Almost every composer has a wonderful waltz melody that everyone knows.
  • Tango is a very diverse and passionate dance. It is based on the ancient movements of the people of Africa. He came to Europe with touring artists. It was danced for the first time in Paris, and then it spread around the world.
  • Foxtrot is a “weightless” dance. Its feature is the ease of steps. It is in this dance that the couple becomes one. It appeared in America in 1912. This dance reached its peak of popularity after the end of World War II.

Latin American program

  • Samba is a dance that originated in Brazil. It was spread by ten people who danced it in Brazilian carnivals. Today, samba is danced everywhere: both at international competitions and on modest dance floors.
  • Cha-cha-cha is a fiery Cuban dance. The name comes from the sound that occurs when touching the floor while performing the dance.
  • Rumba is a very emotional ballroom dance. It's just a mixture of feelings and emotions that will not leave any of the viewers indifferent.
  • Paso Doble is a dance that talks about the struggle in all spheres of life: love, everyday life, work, and also personifies the confrontation of the individual. The Spanish origin is reflected in the aggression and emotionality of this dance.
  • Jive is a dance for prepared couples. A striking difference from other directions is the presence of sharp elements of choreography.

How is competitive dance judged?

To give a couple a score, judges evaluate the following parameters:

  • Rhythm is the most important criterion. If a couple does not hear the music and dances out of place, then they immediately give it the lowest score and do not look at other characteristics.
  • Pair position. It should give elegance and make leading easier.
  • Line - stretching the entire body from the crown to the tips of the fingers. Beautiful lines increase the volume of figures.
  • Frame - a stationary position of the hands in a closed dance. The line consisting of the partners' arms should be straight along its entire length.
  • Balance. There are only two balances: central and neutral. With central balance, the body weight is distributed on both legs, with neutral balance - on one. In general, any dance consists of transitions from one balance to another. If they are not followed, the dance will be rough and difficult.
  • Musicality. All movements must correspond to the atmosphere of the music for ballroom dancing - emphasize strong moments, work out weak ones.
  • Dynamics. Movements on the parquet should be quite active. This is especially noticeable in the European program. If, for example, a couple’s step length is longer than that of their opponents, then they will immediately attract the attention of spectators and judges.
  • Performance. The couple should dance with emotion, and not think about what element is next.
  • Energy. The energy of the dance must be controlled. If you direct it correctly, you can get all the attention of the audience and judges, and then they will definitely vote for your couple.

What qualities should a dancer have?

Dancing used to be considered creativity and individual expression. Today, ballroom dancing is an independent sport. In order for a dancer to cope with the load that is present in all dances, he needs to have a number of certain qualities.

  1. Physical strength. In ballroom dancing there are many different lifts and other complex elements that require strength.
  2. Coordination and flexibility. To perform various figures and maneuver on the parquet, you cannot do without these qualities. Basketball players, football players and gymnasts also have these traits.
  3. Endurance. During the entire competition, the dancer is required to perform in five rounds. The dance in each round lasts two minutes. During one two-minute dance, the athletes' muscles tense up in the same way as cyclists and middle-distance runners.
  4. Grace. Smoothness of movements in dancing, just like in rhythmic gymnastics, is one of the important components of success.
  5. Team spirit and discipline. A dance team can consist of two or sixteen people. The requirements for eight pairs, who must still navigate space relative to each other without problems, are very high.
  6. Musicality. All participants must have an understanding of music, just like gymnasts.

Ballroom dancing for children

Many parents are wondering whether to send their children to dance. To finally decide, you should know about the benefits of this lesson:

  • Strengthening muscles.
  • Increased endurance.
  • Formation of correct posture.
  • Motor skills are trained.
  • A sense of rhythm develops.
  • Ability to live in society and interact with other people.
  • Development of intelligence and curiosity.
  • Getting rid of complexes and fears.
  • Ballroom dancing for girls will help improve stretching.
  • The level of self-confidence increases.

When should classes start?

After decision taken Parents often ask the question, at what age should a child be sent to classes? Experts recommend starting classes at 6-7 years old. But it should still be taken into account individual characteristics your child.

On the other hand, children who started classes before the age of seven are more likely to succeed, but on the other hand, they are more likely to get tired, their motor skills are not developed, and it is more difficult for them to absorb information from teachers.

If you still want to give more early age, then ask yourself a few questions:

  1. Will the child be able to understand and accurately follow all the teacher’s instructions?
  2. Will he be able to concentrate on details?
  3. Will he be able to exercise stress which is given in class?
  4. Does your child also have a desire to learn to dance? Or is it your whim?
  5. Does he have an ear for music?

If you answered yes to most of the questions, then feel free to take your child to classes, you are ready for this.

Requirements for the outfit of little dancers

So, you have decided to send your child to dance. You have your first competition ahead, it’s time to sew your stage outfit.

Ballroom dance dresses for girls should match the most strict rules:

  • The color of clothing should be monochromatic, but in no case flesh-colored.
  • Sleeve options: short, long or ¾, a flashlight is also allowed. No cuts allowed.
  • Neck or neckline: semicircle, triangle or square. It is possible to sew a stand-up collar.
  • The skirt should be loose-fitting and the same length in front and back. The length of the skirt should not be higher than 10 cm from the knee.
  • There should be no laces, frills, appliqués or other additions.
  • It is not allowed to use frills, ribbons or fishing lines to finish the hem of a skirt.
  • The material from which the dress is made should not be transparent, guipure, iridescent, etc. Only thick fabric is allowed.

There are also requirements for shoes:

  • The maximum heel height is 3.5 cm.
  • The heel should be wide and stable.
  • Shoes can be of any material and color. Metal castings are allowed.
  • There should be no buckles, rhinestones, stones, etc. on shoes.
  • You can pair your shoes with socks of any color or nude tights. You cannot wear fishnet tights or those with glitter, patterns, etc.

Shoes and dresses for ballroom dancing must comply with a number of strictly regulated rules, without following which the artist may be disqualified.

Main expense items

Ballroom dancing is one of the most expensive sports. In addition to paying for classes, there are other expenses. Let's look at them:

  1. Payment for the circle is the first upcoming expense.
  2. Outfit for participation in competitions and concerts.
  3. Girls will need shoes with and without heels for training.
  4. Two sets of workout clothes. Boys will need to buy trousers and shirts, and girls will need to buy skirts and tops.

It is important to remember that outfits for performances are made to order, and custom tailoring involves additional expenses.

If the competition is not held in your city, then you also need to include expenses for travel, accommodation and food, and a fee for participation in the tournament.

How to choose a school?

In order to correctly decide on a school and not regret your choice in the future, you need to find out as much information as possible about it. Follow the following algorithm:

  • Find out as much as you can about the teaching staff. Ask where the teachers trained and if they have special education credentials.
  • Find out if they have any awards or been mentioned in the newspapers or online.
  • Do school students participate in ballroom dancing tournaments, are there any famous graduates.
  • Collect the opinions of the students' parents about the school, find out the advantages and disadvantages.
  • Visit the day open doors. This way you will see the learning process from the inside and will be able to choose the most suitable program.
  • See how the classrooms are equipped with equipment and whether everything you need is there.
  • Check out the price list. Remember that in good schools the prices are quite high.

Many cities have ballroom dancing schools. Moscow, of course, is the leader in the number of schools, and there is plenty to choose from. Therefore, if you live in the capital, visit these establishments and collect information about them. When choosing, you must be sure that the school suits you in all respects.

Which were held in rooms covered with parquet. From a huge variety of both elite (historical and everyday) and folk dances The ballroom group includes dances characterized by 2 characteristics: all ballroom dances are paired; a couple consists of a man and a woman, but there are exceptions, since in England it is already customary to dance in same-sex groups (that is, solo)

“Ballroom dancing” currently means the phrase “sports dancing” ( SBT, “sport ballroom dancing”) and “dance sport”. This is reflected in the names of various dance organizations, for example: “Moscow Federation of Dance Sports” or “Moscow Federation of Dance Sports”.

Currently, ballroom dancing includes 10 different dances, divided into two programs. Throughout the dance world, sports dance competitions are divided into 2 programs: European (Standard, Modern or Ballroom), Latin American (Latin) or sometimes called the ten dances. In the 1960s the USSR created its own " people's program", which included historical dances performed at balls, and competitions were held in both 2 main and three programs, respectively. Two more dances - polka and fashionable rock - form the fourth, additional program, which is now performed by beginning dancers.

The European program includes: slow waltz (Boston), quickstep (fast foxtrot), Viennese waltz, tango, slow foxtrot.

History and definition

Young Princess Marie Antoinette in class

The word “ball” came into Russian from French and comes from the Latin verb ballare, which means “to dance.” From the huge variety of both elite (historical and everyday) and folk dances, the ballroom group includes dances characterized by the following features.

All ballroom dances are partner dances. A couple consists of a gentleman and a lady, dancing while observing the points of contact. In the European program this contact is closer. It persists throughout the dance. In the Latin American program, contact is freer, most often carried out through joined hands and can sometimes be completely lost or strengthened due to tension when performing figures.

Since ballroom dancing requires certain skills and training, its popularity in society has decreased over time. The introduction of the twist in the 1960s marked the end of couples dancing. Dances such as waltz, tango, foxtrot, etc. have actually ceased to serve as mass entertainment. A new page has opened in the history of ballroom dance.

European program

The European program (Modern or Standard) includes 5 dances: quickstep (tempo 50-52 beats per minute), slow waltz (tempo 28-29 beats per minute), tango (tempo 30-32 beats per minute), slow foxtrot (tempo 27-29 beats per minute), and Viennese waltz (tempo 58-60 beats per minute). Appropriate ballgowns must be worn for this program. Gentlemen must wear black or dark blue tailcoats and wear a bow tie or tie. Instead of a tailcoat, dancing in a tuxedo or vest is allowed. A modern dance costume differs from an everyday one primarily in its cut, one of the features of which is that the shoulders of the partner’s costume must remain level when the arms are raised to the sides.

Latin American program

The Latin American program includes dances: samba (tempo - 50-52 beats per minute), cha-cha-cha (tempo - 30-32 beats per minute), rumba (tempo - 21-25 beats per minute), paso doble (tempo - 58-62 beats per minute) and jive (tempo - 40-44 beats per minute). Of the Latin American dances, only samba and paso doble are danced with progression along the dance line. In other dances, the dancers more or less remain in one place, although in these dances it is possible for the dancers to move around the dance floor with or without returning to the starting point. Nowadays, ladies' pageant dresses tend to be short, very open and tight-fitting. The modern competitive suit for gentlemen is also quite tight-fitting, emphasizing the masculine lines of the body.

Dancer classification

In order to create more or less equal competition on the dance floor, a system of classes has been introduced in sports ballroom dancing, reflecting the level of training of dancers and a system of age categories, distributing dancers according to age groups. To enter the first competition, they are assigned one of the lowest classes (H), which they can subsequently change to a higher one by taking certain places in the competition and earning certain points. In the lower classes you cannot dance all the dances and all the elements. Each group has a rule regarding movements, where not everything can be performed. The higher the class, the more dances and movements are performed in competitions. M class dancers have the highest class of skill.

Classification of dancers by level of training (STSR Rules)

N Class: in this class they dance the slow waltz, quickstep, samba, cha-cha-cha.

E class: Sports class, which can also be a starting class. There are 6 dances performed in this class: slow waltz, Viennese waltz, quickstep, samba, cha-cha and jive. To advance to the next class, you must score 16 - 26 points in competitions (the number of points may vary in different dance organizations).

D class: In this class all E class dances are performed and 2 dances are added: tango and rumba. To advance to the next class, you must score 16 points in one of the programs or 24 points in the overall competition.

C class: It is allowed to perform choreography not from the basic list of figures. Dances are also added: paso doble and slow foxtrot.

B class: Athletes in this class get the opportunity to perform poses and lifts. Athletes have the opportunity to dance one program: European or Latin American.

A class: Professional class.

S class: From Zonder - “special” - assigned by decision of the Presidium national federation based on the results of the national Championship or Championship.

M class: International, master class - the highest in dance sports.

Classification of dancers by age groups

  • Children 1 -4-5 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Children 2 - 5-7 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Juveniles 1 - 7-9 years. By age of the eldest
  • Juveniles 2 - 9-11 years. By age of the eldest
  • Juniors 1 - 12-13 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Juniors 2 -14-15 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Youth 1 - 16-18 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Youth 2 - 18-21 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Adults - 21-31 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Seniors 1 -31-41 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Seniors 2 - 41-51 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Seniors 3 - 51-61 years old. By age of the eldest
  • Grand Senior - from 61 for an indefinite period.

The second partner in a couple may be younger than the lowest age limit of his age category: in children 2, Juniors 1, Juniors 2, Youth by a maximum of four years, in the category adults - by a maximum of five years.

Hearing the phrase “ballroom dancing”, many imagine luxurious dresses, exquisite men's tailcoats and quiet classical music. This is because the word “ball” is associated with solemn royal events and activities that we read about in children's fairy tales.

In fact, “ballroom” began to be called secular, non-professional, pair dances that arose in the Middle Ages in Europe. Throughout their history, they have undergone significant changes, and each era has invested in them its own characteristics and specific features.

In the 20th century, ballroom dances consisted of European dances, which included elements of Latin American and African culture. In fact, most modern ballroom styles have real African “roots” that have been “polished” by European masters and dance schools.

Division of ballroom dancing and new items that have become popular

In the twenties of the 19th century, a special Council arose under the English Imperial Society, which was supposed to deal specifically with ballroom dancing. The goal of the specialists was to standardize all areas available at that time, such as:
  • foxtrot (fast and slow);
  • waltz;
  • tango.
It was at that moment that all ballroom dances were divided into two styles that were opposite in style - social dance and the now popular sports ones. Already by the 50s the number dance styles dominant in Europe has increased significantly. People learned about fiery, festival Latin American dances, which, despite their specificity, were accepted by society and rightfully began to be considered “ballroom”. Europeans appreciated: jive, samba, paso doble, rumba, cha-cha-cha.

Nowadays, thousands of large and small classical dance competitions are held annually. In most cases, they are divided into three programs - Latin American, European, and “ten”.

Everything you need to know about ballroom dancing

The first feature of ballroom dancing is that they are all pairs, and represent a kind of “communication” between a lady and a gentleman. Moreover, partners must strictly observe all permissible points of contact in order to truly merge in an excellent, beautiful, enchanting dance. Techniques developed over the years have been brought to perfect balance so that the dance is not just movements to music, but a collection of harmonious steps that create perfect ensemble.

If we talk about contacts, Latin American dances are characterized by greater freedom of movement, and partners touch only with their hands most of the time. At some points, contact is lost completely, and sometimes it intensifies during the execution of special figures.

IN modern world The popularity of ballroom dancing has decreased significantly, due to the fact that its performance requires special skills and grueling training to constantly maintain shape.

In the sixties of the 20th century, a twist appeared, the popularity of which became the “beginning of the end” for paired dance styles. Tango, waltz, foxtrot have practically sunk into oblivion and ceased to serve as a way of entertainment for the broad masses of people.

Without a doubt, it is wrong to talk about ballroom dancing as one direction - each of them has its own characteristics that deserve special attention. But undoubtedly, the most harmonious and vibrant are two dances - tango and foxtrot. In one period of time, they managed to cover several continents at once, and to this day they remain popular and favorite destinations for millions of people around the world.

Tango

This style appeared in the African communities living in Buenos Aires and was based on the ancient dance moves, invented by the inhabitants of the hottest continent.

It was “brought” to Europe by touring orchestras and dancers, and for the first time it was performed in the capital of France - Paris, and only after that “went” to Berlin, London and other cities.

In 1913, the dance became popular in Finland, the USA and many other countries.

During the period of the “Great Depression” there was a real “golden age” of tango - at this time many ensembles were created, which included ordinary people who eventually became real stars.

In the year 83 of the 20th century, the Forever Tango show was created in New York, after which people around the world began to take classes in order to master this beautiful, rhythmic and passionate direction.

Foxtrot

Exists erroneous opinion that this dance owes its name to English word“foxtrot”, which translated means “fox gait”, however, in fact, the name comes from the name of the man who became the founder of the style - Harry Fox.

Introduced in the United States in 1912, the foxtrot immediately after World War I won the hearts of Europeans.

A special feature of this dance was the “weightlessness” of the steps, which gave all movements a special lightness and airiness. Perhaps, no other “ballroom” direction can boast that partners, in the process, become literally one whole, merging into an ideal organism.

Classification of ballroom dances

All ballroom sports dances are divided into two main programs - Latin American and European. Each of the directions has certain norms, rules and pace that must be followed.

Latin American includes such styles as:

  • cha-cha-cha (from 30 to 32 beats per minute);
  • jive (42 to 44 beats per minute);
  • paso doble (60 to 62 beats per minute);
  • rumba (from 25 to 27 beats per minute);
  • samba (from 50 to 52 beats per minute).
The European one includes:
  • tango (from 31 to 33 beats per minute);
  • slow waltz (from 28 to 30 beats per minute);
  • quickstep (from 50 to 52 beats per minute);
  • slow foxtrot (from 28 to 30 beats per minute);
  • Viennese waltz (from 58 to 60 bars per minute).
These days, European ballroom dancing is hardly seen at nightclub parties. Most often they are performed at competitions and special events, but the Latin American style is quite popular among young people.

Slow Waltz

Waltz is a unique dance that is accessible to everyone. It is performed both at the world famous Viennese balls and in ordinary rural clubs or at proms. Waltz is the embodiment of romance and feelings in dance. It is difficult to name a popular composer who would not have written his own wonderful waltz melody, to which both adults and children dance today.

Tango

Tango is the embodiment of diversity. Today there is a classic ballroom, passionate Argentine and even a little exotic Finnish style. What all these movements have in common is the extraordinary nature of the dance, which combines simultaneous passion and severity with frivolity and tenderness. That is why, despite its technical complexity, this dance has so many fans around the world.

Viennese Waltz

A very elegant, light and at the same time fast-paced romantic dance, which is most often performed at weddings, graduations and other celebrations. The Viennese Waltz remains consistently popular among people of all ages.
Slow Foxtrot Since its birth, the foxtrot began to develop in two main directions: fast and slow. Its slow version is both a simple and complex dance: almost anyone can master the basics of the dance, but only the most persistent and talented can comprehend its character and depth.

Quick foxtrot (Quickstep)

The word itself (Quickstep) literally means “quick step”. Fast Foxtrot is a fast and easy dance. Sometimes it even seems that the dancers don’t even touch the dance floor with their feet, but actually float above it in weightlessness. The same deep character of the slow foxtrot, but everything is much faster and more sensual.

2nd program “Latin American”

Samba

Samba is a unique ballroom dance that came to us from Brazil. He owes his popularization among the Brazilian population to a small dance school of the dozen people who were the first to perform it at traditional dance carnivals. Today they are performed both at ballroom dancing competitions, huge festivals and carnivals, and on ordinary dance floors.

Cha-cha-cha (Cha-cha-cha)

Truly fiery and colorful Cuban dance with a unique character. The dancers themselves gave the dance a rather funny name, since the sound made when touching the floor during the dance was similar to “cha-cha-cha.” In any case, the dance is very beautiful, sensual and fun.

Rumba

Rumba is one of the most emotional ballroom dances. An incredible extravaganza of feelings and emotional shades that leaves neither the audience nor the dancers indifferent. The passion and flame of ballroom dancing.

Paso Doble

The embodiment of struggle in dance. The Paso Doble tells the audience about the struggle. It is everywhere: in life, in love, in work, in friendship and in dance... The Spanish roots of the Paso Doble give it even more aggressiveness, emotions and feelings.

Jive

One of the most popular types of swing, but with free movements and some freedom for imagination. The main difference between Jive can be considered the presence of especially dangerous choreographic throws. This dance is not for beginners, as it requires not only good physical fitness and courage, but also vast experience. Not only the partners, but also the audience get pleasure from the dance, since Jive is a storm of adrenaline and passion.