Using Bachata As A Social Dance Technique

Project in Music

Submitted by: Rivera, Cris Stephanie M.

10 FORTITUDE

Submitted to: Sir Paulo Ricardo M. Isaac

MAPEH Teacher Latin dances hail from several different countries in South and Central America, and most have influences that range far beyond this region. Some dances are easier to learn than others, but all Latin dances have a flair that both spectators and dancers alike adore.

Popular Latin Dance Styles

The following Latin dances are the ones that are most often learned and performed. Whether watching a dance show on television or attending a social dance workshop, you're bound to run into some of these Latin styles.

Bachata

The Bachata is a dance from the Dominican Republic, named after Bachata guitar music. Dancers move side

It is generally considered easy to learn, making it a great choice for those looking to ease their way in to Latin dancing.

The following basic movement goes to the front, back, and side when a couple dances the Merengue together: step onto the inside edge of the foot, roll the foot to transfer weight, then drag the other foot to meet the first foot. Learn the basic technique from an instructor or observe other dancers doing it, such as in this instructional Merengue video, where the basic step is demonstrated to the side. Rumba

The Rumba has its roots in the Cuban son. The Rumba consists of two quick steps and then a third slower step that takes two beats to execute. Dancers use a box-like pattern to guide their movements.

Though dancers originally danced the Rumba with quick steps, ballroom Rumba dancing (Latin dancing most often seen in competitions) has emphasized slow, romantic steps with a focus on hip movements.

Salsa

The Salsa originated in the Caribbean, although it also has a strong African influence. Couples typically perform this dance together and it centers on a four-beat combination of two quick steps and a slow step with a pause or