Waltz
Style:
International (English) Style
Category:
Modern/Standard Ballroom
Rhythm:
3/4 time
Tempo: 30 Bars
per minute (Competition)
29-34 Bars per
minute (Social)
When people hear the phrase 'Ballroom Dance' they invariably think of the
Waltz.
Waltz is THE fundamental Ballroom dance.
Originating hundreds of years ago in Bavarian Europe, the original waltz
had a much faster tempo and was more similar to our modern 'Viennese Waltz'.
The dance experienced significant opposition when it was popularized
across Europe. The idea of a man
holding a woman hip to hip and cavorting about seemed somehow improper.
This modern 'Slow Waltz' is derived from an American
version of the Waltz called 'The Boston' which was characterized by the slow
tempo, long flowing steps, and the closed position which made our slow waltz
what it is today.
A strong foundation in Waltz is the basis of understanding International
Standard and American Smooth dances.
Most figures in other dances such as foxtrot are merely steps from Waltz
danced to a different Rhythm.
What
distinguishes Waltz as Waltz then is the character, which has been described as
'being in love- forever'.