Bachata in Toronto
Dancing Bachata is like being on vacation at the beach. The weather is perfectly warm, there’s a bonfire, and you are connecting with others and mellowing out at sunset. Everyone is relaxed and the vibe is incredible. Don’t we all need more of this in our lives? Bachata has become increasingly popular, and if you want to learn, you have many options to choose from. So if you’re looking for Bachata in Toronto, consider these tips to help pick the right school for you.
Identify your Preferred Dance Style
There are many different Styles of Bachata, but here is a quick breakdown. Bachata has its origins in the Dominican Republic. So the original style is called Dominican Bachata. It is known for its complicated footwork and fast pace. Although you can dance an entire song closely with your partner, it’s common to dance many parts individually. If you are familiar with Salsa, you can compare this intermittent solo performance with Salsa shines.
Sensual Bachata is a more recent style that is known for close, intimate contact and more body isolations. It is incredibly sexy and fun. But at the beginner level, many people don’t feel comfortable with it because of its close contact.
Modern Bachata is known for slower dancing with a left and right, forward and back pattern. It is beginner friendly and easy to learn. It allows closer handholds and less footwork, and more connection points. This is the style that is the most common at schools and clubs in Toronto. At Toronto Dance Salsa we teach Modern Style Bachata because it is fun to learn, you will see progress faster than other styles, and you will have more opportunities to dance in Toronto. But don’t worry because as you go to higher levels, we will introduce you to the other two styles to increase your skills. I would encourage everyone to pick a school that focuses on Modern-style Bachata because it is the one that opens up the most doors for you.
Flexible Versus Consistent Schedule
We encourage students to attend classes at a school with a consistent schedule. Some of the benefits include building a meaningful connection with your classmates. Also, you have a curriculum where you can see your growth and progression as a dancer. Moreover, you have the same instructor and feel comfortable knowing who’s in the class.
However, if your schedule is constantly changing, you may want to consider looking at a school where you do drop-in classes, as you will have the flexibility to come in whenever you want and learn bits and pieces.
The drawback of this attendance mode is the lack of continuity and the longer learning curve. Your classes become a hit-and-miss, creating the feeling of attending the same lesson or feeling behind because you missed the foundation of a move. If you are in this situation you can always request private lessons, they imply additional costs, but they are an alternative available in many schools.
The Right Instructor For You
Pick a Bachata school in Toronto that is right for you by reading google reviews. Other’s experiences can give you valuable information about the vibe and style of each dancing school. I am proud when I read my students’ reviews and I take them seriously.
You should select an instructor who will inspire you and help you believe in yourself and feel confident.
When I ask my students what they are looking for in an instructor, one of the popular answers is someone who can offer a fun experience and consistent learning and make them feel welcomed and valued. When I first looked for an instructor, I remember looking for someone who would not make me feel bad because I was not following or moving as gracefully as the other dancers. So my biggest advice is to pick an instructor committed to supporting you on your journey and with whom you feel the right exchange of energy and sympathy.
Bachata in Toronto has exploded in the last 15 years in popularity thanks a lot to Modern Style which is much easier and faster to pick up. The best advice I can give you is to start Bachata classes now. Don’t wait. Identify the style you want to learn, figure out your schedule and read the reviews then pick the Bachata school in Toronto (hopefully ours) that is right for you. I am sure I will see you on the dance floor very soon.
I can’t wait to welcome you to our big family, have you come in every week, have fun, socialize, and let loose to amazing Latin songs. Click here for our current schedule.
If you have any questions you would like me to answer, here are some ways you can contact me: message me on Instagram (torontodancesalsa), on Twitter (#torontodancesalsa), on Facebook (Toronto Dance Salsa) or email me at [email protected].
