DIFFERENT STYLES OF BACHATA
Bachata is a really popular Latin dance. It shares its name with the genre of music. All Bachata music is eight beats and the basics always remain three steps and tap but there are so many different styles of Bachata dance.
Modern/Moderna style
This fusion style has its foundations in the Western Traditional Style of Bachata. It’s the style you will see most in nightcluModern/Moderna style (2005)bs today. It is also what we teach at Toronto Dance Salsa. Moderna style Bachata figures emphasize the use of “the slot” (like in Salsa) but also incorporate circular figures that allow couples to travel and use more dance floor space. This style puts a larger emphasis on upper body (ribcage) movement on counts 1-2-3, while keeping the signature “hip pop” on count 4.
Distinguishing characterics of Moderna style Bachata are the use of many turn patterns, close connection between partners and the use of dips.
Dominican Bachata
This is where Bachata started. The basic step moves within a small dance space (a square) with syncopated steps to express the music (guitarra). Everything from open hand holds, to closed embraces are used.
Distinguishing characteristics of Dominican style are footwork using playful,syncopated steps. Leading with strong hip movements on all counts (not just on the 4th or tap step). Experienced Bachata dancers will use for the faster, more “punchier” Bachata music. Strong percussive beats and guitarra lines lend themselves to the strong, syncopated style of Dominican footwork.
Other Fusion Styles of Bachata
Bachata has been around for over 100 years in the Caribbean but is still considered a new dance in the rest of the world. Thus new fusion styles are continually being created.
New fusion styles that have been developed include:
Urban Bachata: Hip Hop influenced
Bachatango/Bachata Tango: Argentine Tango influenced
Touch style: a very sensual fusion of Moderna and Dominican styles
If you want to learn How to Dance Bachata like a Pro click the link to learn more.
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