Salsa, Bachata – Where Do You Start?
Maybe you travelled or you just went to a club at home but you have recently been introduced to Latin music and Latin dance. Salsa or Bachata – where do you start? Don’t worry, we are here to help you have a great start with Salsa and Bachata. I started as a beginner Salsa student in 2009 at Toronto Dance Salsa (where I am now the chief instructor and Director). So I know how confusing it can be. You’re in great hands, let’s plan together.
Bachata – Where Do You Start?
There are many styles of Bachata. Which one should you choose – Dominican Bachata, Sensual Bachata, or Urban Bachata? Let’s simplify it. Start with Modern/Moderna style Bachata. It is the most popular style of Bachata. Modern Bachata is the middle ground and sweet spot for any new dancer. It’s fun, easy to pick up, and the beats are even and not too fast. Also at higher levels, there is much more focus on body movements, isolations, and arm styling for ladies. These are all great things to add to your dance repertoire. So with Bachata, I recommend starting with Modern Bachata and then you can explore all the other styles as well.
Salsa – Where Do You Start?
Salsa also has many varieties. You can get paralyzed by choices. Start simple with L.A.-Style or Modern Salsa (also called Nightclub Salsa) as it’s the one you will run into most in every club. It’s known for being a slotted dance, where both Leaders and Followers do quick spins and turns. There are many tricks and lots of styling as well. Once you have learned L.A-Style Salsa you can learn other styles such as Cuban Rueda Salsa or New York Salsa as well.
Start by Picking the Right School
Besides doing the obvious work of reading a business’s google reviews, looking at their website, and seeing what works in your schedule…make sure to pick a school that has a curriculum and a weekly schedule. You need consistency and to build a strong foundation to improve. At our school, we run our classes from Salsa Level 1 to Level 6 and Bachata Level 1 to 4 like a course. Having a course helps in several ways including; building meaningful connections with classmates, building on your skills and making time for yourself at least once a week.
Final Tip – Just Start!
Yes, it’s that simple. How do you start Salsa or Bachata? Just sign up for a class and start!
I can’t wait to welcome you to our big family, have you coming in week-to-week, have fun, connect with new friends and let loose to amazing Latin songs. Click here to check 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].
