Different Styles of Salsa
Different styles of Salsa, a dance and music style hailing from Cuba, have spread throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. It features fast, energetic rhythms and catchy melodies, and often includes spirited, sensual dance moves. Many styles of Salsa exist, each with its own unique flavor and characteristics. This article will cover four popular styles: Cuban Salsa, Colombian Salsa, LA style Salsa, and New York style Salsa.
Cuban Salsa
Cuban Salsa, also known as Casino, originated in Havana, Cuba in the 1950s. It features fast, syncopated rhythms and complex footwork and body movements. Dancers typically perform Cuban Salsa in a closed position, facing each other and holding onto each other’s shoulders or waist. This social and interactive dance style often involves group or “rueda” (wheel) formations, with multiple couples dancing together and switching partners.
Colombian Salsa
Colombian Salsa, also known as Cumbia, originated on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. It boasts a slower, more laid-back tempo and fluid, flowing body movements. Dancers typically perform Colombian Salsa in an open position, facing each other but not holding onto each other. This relaxed, sensual dance style often accompanies romantic lyrics and themes.
LA Style Salsa vs New York Style Salsa
LA style Salsa and New York style Salsa are two styles that developed in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s, influenced by both Cuban and Puerto Rican Salsa traditions. Los Angelos style features smooth, fluid footwork and intricate turn patterns and shimmies. Dancers typically perform it in a compact, upright posture, often to faster, more energetic music. New York style Salsa, on the other hand, boasts sharp, precise footwork and strong, dynamic body movements. Dancers typically perform it in a more upright, forward-leaning posture, often to slower, more rhythmic music.
Salsa, a vibrant and diverse dance and music style, has evolved and adapted over time, resulting in numerous styles and variations. Whether you prefer the fast, energetic rhythms of Cuban Salsa, the laid-back, sensual style of Colombian Salsa, the smooth, fluid movements of LA style Salsa, or the sharp, precise footwork of New York style Salsa, a style of Salsa exists for everyone to enjoy. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to move to the lively, infectious beats of Salsa!
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