Home Feedback Contents Search Dance Link Dance Club Dance Shoe Bachata

 

 

 

 

 

       

  

                 

 

 

 

 

 

Definition of Bachata

The bachata is sometimes referred to as the "blues music of the Dominican Republic."

 

Bachata Fun Learning Curve

 

The Moves

Bachata music has four beats per measure. Three steps are taken to four beats of music. As with salsa, the step timing is three steps and then a one-beat pause.

The basic footwork pattern is three steps in one direction (side-close-side) and then a hip motion. Repeat going in the other direction.

Some teachers call out the timing as, "one, two, three, lift; one, two, three, lift," while others call out the timing as, "one, two, three, bump; one, two, three, bump." Some people call out the timing as "one, two, three, touch; one, two, three, touch.”

The basic step is easy. As with all Latin dances, the hard part is getting the body action. Without the hip and body action, you are not dancing the bachata. Bend your knees and practice that hip bump!
 << Back to top

 

The Music

The tempo is slow, typically 120 beats per minute. In some songs, the guitar melody is sad; in other songs merry.
<< Back to top

 

History

Bachata music was born in the Dominican Republic, borrowing from the Cuban Bolero.
 << Back to top

 

Tips & Info

Here are some "universal tips" for learning how to dance a partner dance such as bachata.   

  • First, acquire a few audio CD's of the music and play the music over and over in your home or automobile.
  • Next, count the step timing in time to the music. This you can do sitting down, perhaps while driving. For example, for waltz, call out the 1,2,3 1,2,3 step timing in time to the music. For foxtrot, call out the step timing using slows and quicks. For cha cha and rumba, it's important to recognize the first beat of each measure. Otherwise you may dance on the incorrect beat. If necessary,
  • Have your instructor assist you in learning to count the step in time to the music. Dancing in correct time to the music is absolutely essential. Continue this "sitting down and listening" exercise for as long as necessary until you can easily and automatically count the step in time to the music. The 18 Dance Practice CD sold by 18Dance Store might be a helpful
    tool.
Next, practice the basic step, including the step timing, until the step is automatic - like tying a shoe. Using east coast swing as an example, practice the triple step, triple step, rock step basic until it's automatic. Next, practice this basic to music until it becomes automatic. Many basic steps can be practiced without a partner.

 

 

Call the office at 62250907 For details

Information Request Form

Select the items that apply, and then let us know how to contact you.

Send product literature
Send company literature
Have a salesperson contact me

Name
Title
Company
Address
E-mail
Phone

 

[ Home ] [ News ] [ Salsa ] [ Casino Reuda ] [ Bachata ] [ Merengue ] [ Zouk ] [ Latin & Ballroom ] [ Bar Top Dance ] [ Club Dance ] [ Sensual & Exotic ] [ Belly Dance ] [ Hip Hop ] [ Ballet ] [ Tap ] [ Argentine Tango ]

Send mail to i@17dances.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2005 17Dances
Last modified: 02/06/06