Ballroom Dance Lessons & Instructor in Fort Walton Beach, FL

Explore Various Ballroom Dance Lessons in Fort Walton Beach, FL

People enjoy ballroom dancing for competition or social interaction. In fact, it is often referred to as “partnership dancing” because it requires a partner. Ballroom dancing dates back to the royal courts of the 16th century. It has also been influenced by folk dances, such as the Waltz, which has been traced back to an 18th-century Austrian dance.

Ballroom Dance Lessons Fort Walton Beach, FL

The Two Ballroom Dance Styles

OurA ballroom dance studio in Fort Walton Beach, FL, will teach two styles of ballroom dance training. International Style dates back to the early 1800s in England and spread globally in the 19th century with popular music composed by Josef and Johann Strauss. This style features two sub-styles: Standard and Latin. Ballroom dance instruction in International Style is typically used for competitions.

The United States developed the American Style between 1910 and 1930. This ballroom style was influenced by jazz music and took a more social approach to ballroom dancing. It is primarily styled by Mr. Fred Staire, the namesake of our ballroom dance studio in Fort Walton Beach, FL. American Style has changed over the years to encompass salsa, mambo, and West Coast swing and has adapted to various types of music from around the world. American Style ballroom dancing also has two sub-styles: Rhythm and Smooth. Both styles are common in competitions and social dance situations.

International Vs. American Style

If you’re thinking about old-school ballroom dance lessons, you’re likely considering the International Style. With International Standard ballroom dancing, the partners remain close with body contact throughout the dance. While American Style is similar in some ways, it does allow for separation during the dance. International Style ballroom training requires more discipline from the start, while American Style is preferred for a hobby or social dancing before progressing to competitions.
Dance Lessons Fort Walton Beach, FL
American Style ballroom dancing can also include Exhibition solo work that offers more flexibility in the choreography. Both styles require higher proficiency and technical movements, but American Style is more flexible with positioning. International Style uses fewer positions. How dancers dress varies between ballroom dancing styles as well. Because of the close positions involved in International Style, women typically wear more floaty dresses, while those participating in American Style can wear a greater variety of dress styles.
Dance Training Fort Walton Beach, FL

Learn to Ballroom Dance Today

Fred Astaire Dance Studios has dance instructors near you, located right here in Fort Walton Beach, FL, who can teach both styles, along with various other ballroom dances. Which dance style you choose is up to you and your dance goals. Some of our students seek high-energy ballroom dance lessons to improve their health and wellness, while others want to learn a special dance for their wedding. Our ballroom dance instructors work with students of all ages and skill levels, with or without a partner.

We encourage you to watch our demo video to learn about the various ballroom dance training options we offer. Contact Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Fort Walton Beach, FL, to schedule your ballroom dancing lessons. Don’t forget to ask how our new student introductory offer can save you money on dance classes as you start your journey to learn to dance.