Latin Dance Classes in Durham
Are you ready to add rhythm to your life and discover the vibrant world of Latin dance classes? Whether you’re looking to master the art of salsa dancing, explore the fun of the rumba, or find your groove with the merengue, our Latin dance classes in Durham are perfect for all skill levels!
Perfect for all skill levels, our classes are designed to help you build confidence, enjoy new experiences, and even meet fellow dance enthusiasts.
Latin Dance Styles to Choose From
At Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Durham, we offer an exciting variety of Latin dance lessons to choose from. Each dance style, from the vibrant salsa dance to the romantic rumba, emphasizes rhythm, body movement, and history that you’ll learn when you’re ready to hit the dance floor.
Whether you’re experienced or a beginner, your instructor will tailor your dance lessons to fit your skill level.
Salsa
Salsa is the Spanish word for “sauce” denoting a “spicy” and “hot” flavor to this popular salsa dance style to a complex mix of many different rhythms. There are indications that radio disc jockeys in Puerto Rico coined the name “Salsa” as early as the 1960s.
Later associated with a New York sound developed by Puerto Rican musicians, salsa dance is considered the national music and dance of Puerto Rico. The fusion of an Afro-Cuban beat with enhanced jazz textures results in an aggressive high energy pulse which has become popular everywhere. Many of the patterns are closely related to those of the Mambo and Cha-Cha.
Paso Doble
The Paso Doble is a theatrical Spanish dance that characterizes the man as the matador and the lady as his cape. Based on Flamenco dancing, the character of the dance is arrogant and passionate. Paso Doble translates to “Double Step”.
The Cha Cha
An exciting, syncopated type of Latin dancing, which originated in the 1950s 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.
The Rumba
The Rumba was originally a courtship, marriage, and street dance that was African in origin. It met some opposition from society’s upper crust because of the suggestive body and hip movements. The characteristic feature is to take each step without initially placing the weight on that step. Steps are made with a slightly bent knee which, when straightened causes the hips to sway from side to side, in what has come to be known as Cuban Motion.
The Samba
The Samba is a lively Brazilian dance which was first introduced in 1917 and was finally adopted as a ballroom dance by Brazilian society in 1930. It is sometimes referred to as a Samba, Carioca, a Baion or a Batucado. The difference is mainly in the tempo, since the steps in all four dances are very similar. The style is to bounce steadily and smoothly in 2/4 meter. They say that the Samba was introduced in the United States in 1939 by the late Carmen Miranda.
The Mambo
The spicy Mambo as we now know it grew out of the Danzon (national music of Cuba), and grasped the imagination of the American dance scene at the close of World War II. Later, fast Swing-Jazz and upbeat Latin music joined in to form the updated and uninhibited Mambo. The Mambo is a spot dance and the steps are quite compact.
The Merengue
The Merengue is a popular dance of Haiti and the Dominican Republic and is one of our truly lively Latin dance lessons. There is an old tale about a very brave and famous military officer who was wounded in battle and developed a limp.
A celebration dance was given for the great hero returning from the war. Rather than embarrass their hero, who limped on his wounded leg while dancing, all the men present favored their leg as well, & thus the Merengue was born.
The Bolero
Originally a Spanish dance in 3/4 time, the Bolero 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 is frequently arranged with Spanish vocals and a subtle percussion effect, usually using Congas or Bongos.
What to Bring to Your First Latin Dance Class
If you’re ready to begin your journey into the world of Latin dance lessons, here are a few tips and a list of what to bring to your first dance lesson.
Latin dancing is all about having fun, expressing yourself, and enjoying the moment. Whether you’re a beginner or refining your salsa dance or mambo moves, come ready to learn and have a great time. Remember, with practice comes perfection and greater enjoyment, so hang in there!
Proper footwear can make a big difference in your experience. Bring dance shoes with smooth soles to help you move easily across the dance floor. Avoid rubber soles, as they can make it harder to perform turns and spins, especially for styles like the salsa dance.
Dancing is fun and energizing, so it’s easy to get thirsty, especially with lively styles like samba and merengue. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the class.
Wear clothes that allow you to move freely, like workout gear or casual outfits. Whether you’re learning salsa dance moves or practicing the rhythm of the rumba, you’ll want to stay focused on your steps.
If you want to practice between classes, it’s helpful to jot down key steps or techniques. Bring a small notebook or use your phone’s note app to jot down reminders about salsa dance moves, body movement, partner work tips, or timing details to revisit later.
Many dances, such as salsa classes and rumba, involve partner work. While you don’t need to bring a partner to class, be ready to connect with others and practice techniques like leading and following.
Sign Up for a Latin Dance Class Today
Schedule your first dance lesson by calling 919-489-4313 or filling out the form below. Take advantage of our new student special— just $60 for your first two Latin classes!
Not only will you have access to our team of instructors, but you’ll also have access to our group dance parties and other fun monthly events!