Salsa

Catalog description

This class covers beginner through advanced beginner Salsa moves. Students learn step variations and turn patterns as seen in Latin social dance and nightclub settings. Class begins with a warm-up of Salsa step patterns, also known as shines. We then move into combinations for couples and learn patterns with rotating partners. Latin body movement and rhythm is taught in the warm-up and partner sections. In partner work, emphasis is placed on: lead-follow connection; frame and tension; spatial awareness; nuance and flow. Salsa in Rueda de Casino format will be introduced later in the semester as an additional way to enjoy Salsa. In Rueda, dancers change partners within a circle and perform dynamic combinations to the arrangement of a caller. Rueda is also a teaching tool used to improve timing and release energy. Learning aids include a syllabus, music, smartphone application and video tutorial. No partner is necessary to register. Couple sign-up is encouraged. This class is gender-free: each student is free to choose the lead or follow role.