The Different Types of Latin Dances
The first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of ‘dance’ is the gracefulness and symmetry of its participants in its expression. Not only is it performed by humans but exists in Nature if one watches animals, bird, and insects and so on and so forth.
Of the various forms of dance that are a big part of performance exhibiting cultural variety whether ceremonial, competitive, erotic or just for having fun, Latin dance truly exemplifies this art form with a ’stripped down’ yet freestyle approach requiring its participants to really ‘know’ their body.
Latin dance, or the term we have given it, refers to dances that have originated from Latin America and Cuba and are popular throughout the world. Most of these forms can be classified under folk dance as opposed to some of the popularized cosmopolitan counterparts as they have a strong relationship with folk music in this regard.
Here are the five most popular forms of Latin dance:
Cha-cha-cha - This dance is of Cuban origin, and is normally danced to Cuban music, Latin Pop or Rock.
Rumba - This dance finds its origins to the rumba form of dance from Afro-Cuban music, and is slowest of all the Latin dance forms.
Samba - This lively dance requiring nimble feet is what you will see if you catch a glimpse of the Carnival in Brazil, since the 20th century.
Salsa - The most well-known dance of the lot (from an international point of view) finds its roots in Cuba (yet again!!) while also being strongly influenced by Afro-Cuban beats.
Merengue - This dance is based on Latin American music with a two-step beat, where partners hold each other in a closed position.
admin on February 28th 2010 in Entertainment