Waltz Dance Lessons
Glide with Elegance in our Waltz Dancing Class
Learn the Best Waltz Dance Steps for Beginners and Advanced Dancers
Let Your First Dance Begin with Waltz Basic Steps
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Waltz Dance Lessons in Our Warren Studio
Ballroom Dance from the 19th Century
The Waltz dates back to the country folk dances of Bavaria, some 400 years ago, but was not introduced into “society” until 1812, when it made its appearance in English ballrooms. During the 16th century, it was simply danced as a round dance called the Volte. In most dance history books, it is often stated that the Volte made its first outside appearance in Italy, and then later on to France and Germany.
In those early days, the Waltz had quite a few different names. Some of these names were the Galop, Redowa, Boston, and the Hop Waltz. When the Waltz was first introduced into the ballrooms of the world in the early 19th century, it was met with outrage and indignation. People were shocked by the sight of a man dancing with his hand upon a lady’s waist (as no proper young maiden would compromise herself so) and thus, the Waltz was thought to be a wicked dance.
The Waltz did not become popular among the European middle class until the first decade of the 20th century. Until then, it was the exclusive preserve of the aristocracy. In the United States, where no blue-blood caste existed, it was danced by the populace as early as 1840. Immediately upon its introduction in this country, the Waltz became one of the most popular dances. It was so popular, that it survived the “ragtime revolution.”
The Early Days of the Ballroom Dance Scene
With the advent of ragtime in 1910, the Waltz fell out of favor with the public, being supplanted by the many walking/strutting dances of that era. Dancers who had not mastered the techniques and whirling patterns of the Waltz quickly learned the simple walking patterns, which ushered in the ragtime rage and birth of the Foxtrot. In the latter part of the 19th century, composers were writing Waltzes to a slower tempo than that of the original Viennese style.
American & International style
The box step, typical of the American style Waltz, was being taught in the 1880s and an even slower waltz came into prominence in the early 1920s. The result is three distinct tempos: (1) the Viennese Waltz (fast), (2) medium Waltz, and (3) slow Waltz — the last two being of American invention. The Waltz is a progressive and turning dance with figures designed for both a larger ballroom floor and the average dance floor. The use of sway, rise, and fall highlights the smooth, lilting style of the Waltz. Being a very traditional style of dance, the Waltz makes one feel like a princess or a prince at the ball!
At the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Warren, New Jersey, dance students of all levels are welcome to learn the elegance and technique of the Waltz, whether building skills for social and competitive settings or preparing for a wedding dance. We also offer ballroom dancing lessons for the Viennese Waltz to master its graceful turns while developing confidence on the dance floor.
Beginner Waltz Dance Classes
Beginner Waltz dance lessons at Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Warren, New Jersey, focus on building a strong foundation in techniques. Dance students learn the basic 3/4 rhythm and the signature rise and fall movement through essential patterns like the box step, which forms the core of the dance. The leader begins with a forward step on the left foot, followed by side and closing steps, then mirrors the movement in reverse, while the follower starts with the right foot stepping back and follows the same mirrored pattern.
Once you get comfortable with the box step, you will learn to turn to the left with the left box turn and begin moving forward and backward along the line of dance with the progressive basic step. Our experienced dance instructors also introduce you to the underarm turn, where the leader guides the follower through a simple rotation using a raised arm.
Advanced Waltz Dance Classes
Advanced Waltz lessons expand on these fundamentals with a focus on more complex figures, styling, and seamless transitions. You will learn to refine your technique and rhythm control while learning right and left turning figures such as the natural turn, reverse turn, and natural spin turn. A dedicated dance instructor will teach you additional elements, including promenade-based movements like the whisk, chassé, promenade ronde, and weave, which require fluid coordination and posture.
You will also practice dramatic figures such as the reverse corte, contra check, and throwaway oversway to enhance your expression and stage presence. Advanced combinations like the fallaway reverse and slip pivot, continuous pivots, and closed impetus turn will challenge you to maintain balance and precision while performing more dynamic choreography on the dance floor.
Dance class – Group classes and private dance lessons are available
Whether you are interested in wedding dance instruction, a new hobby, or a way to connect with your partner, or want to take your dance skills to the next level, Fred Astaire’s teaching methods will result in faster learning rates, higher levels of achievement – and more FUN! Learn the basic steps with our wonderful instructors or prepare to fine-tune your advanced dancing skills.
Contact the Warren Fred Astaire Dance Studios – and be sure to ask about our special Introductory Offer for new students! The magic starts here and we welcome everybody to come take a lesson and have fun dancing.
Waltz dance lessons are available now. You’ll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your very first dance!
Ballroom Dance Styles We Teach
Dancing is a great way to express your emotions. Hop on the dance floor and try a ballroom or Latin dance class with us. Get creative and have fun! To learn more about each type of dance and view a demonstration video, simply click on the dance style to learn more. Then give us a call at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and be sure to ask about our money-saving introductory offer for new students. Together, we’ll get you started on your personal dance journey and make sure you leave each dance lesson feeling happy and more confident with your dancing skills!
Classes are available for students of all skill levels – from beginners to advanced and all ages. Adults and children are welcome! Fred Astaire ballroom dance lessons are fun, exciting, and a great way to express yourself.
Our exceptional staff is ready to take your dancing journey to the next level. Sign up for an intro class!