Ballroom/Smooth Dances

Foxtrot
The Foxtrot is one of the most popular ballroom dances performed today. Danced in 4/4 time with a perky and flowing quality, the steps are large and glide in a smooth fashion. First danced in 1914 the Foxtrot, was known by several names and has influenced many of the other dance styles such as Quickstep and Swing.

Slow Waltz
The Slow Waltz, like all styles of waltz developed out of peasant dances. Popular by the 17th century the dance is characterized by turning steps danced in a gliding fashion. The Slow Waltz, also known as English or American Waltz is danced at a rather slow 3/4 tempo.

Viennese Waltz
The Viennese Waltz is a fast one! The movements in this dance are quick, and use circular patterns that glide as one travels around the dance floor. Viennese Waltz uses a 3/4 tempo with a lot of turning.

Quickstep
Essentially a fast tempo Foxtrot, Quickstep combines the smooth flowing quality of Foxtrot with syncopated footwork of such dances like the Charleston. Recognized by its skips and hops it is danced in 4/4 time.

Tango
There are several styles of Tango each having a distinct quality that accents the dance. Originally of Spanish ancestry, Tango was danced in the "slums" of Argentina before its international explosion at the turn of the century. Danced traveling or on the spot, this dance combines patterns and "intimacy" to highlight phrases within the accompanying music.