Ballroom Dance Lessons Humble, TX
Types of Ballroom Dance Lessons at Fred Astaire Dance Studios.
Ballroom dance instruction offers social enjoyment and competitive excitement. It is often referred to as “partnership dancing” due to the need for a dance partner. Originating from royal court dances in the 16th century, ballroom dance has also been influenced by folk dances, such as the Waltz, which began as an 18th-century Austrian folk dance.
Two Major Styles of Ballroom Dance.
The international style of ballroom dance emerged in England in the early 1800s and gained worldwide popularity by the 19th century, largely due to the music of Josef and Johann Strauss. This style is divided into two main sub-styles: Standard (or “Ballroom”), and Latin. It is predominantly used in competitive dance settings.
In the United States, ballroom dance evolved into the American style between 1910 and 1930, influenced by American jazz music and the dance innovations of Fred Astaire. This style includes dances like Mambo, Salsa, and West Coast Swing, reflecting the ongoing evolution of global music. American style is categorized into two main sub-styles, Rhythm and Smooth, and is popular in social and competitive dance arenas.
Key Differences Between International and American Styles.
International style represents the classic approach to ballroom dance. In international standard, dance partners maintain a closed position throughout the dance, meaning they stay in body contact. In contrast, American smooth allows dancers to separate, also known as “open position,” providing more flexibility in their dance frame.
International style tends to be more disciplined, with a focus on strict adherence to form, while American style often starts as a social activity and progresses into a sport. American style also allows for exhibition solo work, offering more creative freedom in choreography. Additionally, the attire for each style varies: international style dresses often feature floats to accommodate the closed position, whereas American style dresses are designed for both open and closed positions.
Start Your Dance Journey with Fred Astaire Dance Studios.
At Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Humble, TX, our ballroom dance studio provides comprehensive instructions in international and American ballroom dance styles. Whether you’re interested in high-energy lessons to boost physical health or an elegant first dance for your wedding, our ballroom dance instructors will tailor the ballroom dance training to suit your goals.
To learn more about each style and view demonstration videos, call Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Don’t forget to inquire about our introductory offer for new students!