Dance instructors often suggest that new dancers learn Rumba as one of their first ballroom Latin dance styles.
The dance may not be considered as "flashy" or visually exciting as Salsa or Cha Cha, but if your instructor urges you to start with Rumba, the suggestion is based on sound, practical reasons. As you progress in Ballroom Dancing, you may be very glad you started with this dance.
Rumba is an attractive style for dancers of all abilities and all ages, easy to pick up for beginners, while offering complex variations at advanced levels. Because few dance styles are considered more sensual or romantic, Rumba is sometimes referred to as the "Dance of Love."
Its versatility for social dancing is almost unequaled. Rumbas are played frequently during dance parties in ballrooms, dance studios and recreation centers. It is often the best choice for slower rhythmic Latin music played by a live band or a DJ at hotels, clubs, weddings and private gatherings.
One of the slowest of the Latin dances, Rumba is distinguished by its continuous flowing movement, and a swaying of the hips, described as "Cuban Motion." This is caused by transferring weight from one leg to another. Once learned properly, this weight transfer and hip movement is useful in more fast-paced Latin Dances, including Cha Cha, Salsa, Merengue and Samba.
Adding to its value, especially for beginning dancers, numerous patterns, turns and sequences learned in Rumba can be transferred to other dance styles. This shortens the learning time for related basic steps and patterns. If you decide to move on to that sizzling Salsa or the dramatic Cha Cha, your progress may be much faster.
Hope to see you on the dance floor!
Cheryl
Cheryl Burke Dance Mountain View
Cheryl Burke Dance Studios are located in two California locations: Mountain View and Laguna Niguel. For more information, see cherylburkedance.com and click on the studio "Contact Us" or the studio Facebook pages.
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