May 14, 2011 - Rita was presented with a GOLD MEDAL for FIRST PLACE during a 4 dance heat during a West Coast Swing Teacher’s Intensive! Colleagues from the mainland, Sweden, Australia & Singapore danced, too! Judges included US dance champs Jordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollman and Sharlot Bott & Mark Scheuffele. I had a blast meeting everyone! I’m so happy and honored to share my 30+ years of dance knowledge with everone on Maui! 5-6-7-8!
MAUI WEEKLY ARTICLE 04/15/10:
http://www.mauiweekly.com/page/content.detail/id/501315/Aloha-Ballroom-Dance-Academy.html?nav=11
Rita CoverGirl Photo by DanielKruse May2011
Rita is Maui’s PREMIERE Latin & Ballroom Dance Professional – Instructor – Competitor; Trained & Qualified ~ Member of N.D.C.A. (National Dance Council of America)
What Students Say About Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy*:
“An asset & great benefit to the community!”
“This program has helped me love life again!”
“Great time with great people!”
“Rita’s the best teacher of ballroom & latin dance on the island & I have taken from them all!”
“A favorite date night for my husband & I!”
“Great way to be a part of the Maui community!”
“We love this class! We drive all the way from Kula!”
“Rita’s classes are a life changer!”
“After a hard day at work, I look forward to Rita’s dance classes!”
“I love this class and I got to meet both of my loves in it: my boyfriend and ballroom dancing!”
To read more about Rita & her teaching, CLICK ON ”Kind Words & Testimonials.”
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REINFORCE what you’re learning at the upcoming Academy’s Dance Classes with Private Image’s SEMI-PRIVATE or PRIVATE DANCE CLASSES!!!
A single PRIVATE LESSON can pinpoint areas needed to get the class steps quicker, improve your technique and make your dancing MORE FUN! Read the “Kind Words & Testimonials” to see how other students at all levels benefited from PRIVATE LESSONS!
Practice Does NOT Make Perfect, PERFECT PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT! Any questions on what I’ve taught? ***Feel free to email me your specific concerns and I’m happy to help you achieve “Perfect Practice!”
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Share your love of dance with Friends! You are welcome to invite friends & family to a NIGHT AT THE ACADEMY for FREE! ACADEMY GUEST NIGHT – EVERYONE’S FREE! Bring a Never-Took-Dance-Lessons Friend, invite a former Student/Dancer, come back and try us out again! FREE DANCE CLASS – - FREE DANCE PRACTICE PARTY- More Information in Current Schedule (www.AlohaBallroom.com)!
NEW to DANCE? Watch this 5 minute animated video to learn…you are not alone!
http://www.xtranormal.com/watch/6956297/
BEGINNER HUSTLE LEVEL I (Questions? Email ritaoc@hawaii.rr.com or 344-4452) (first-time private or semi-private students get more than 25% OFF)
Club Dance: Rhythm: Syncopation: &-1-2-3 where there “&” beat indicates a half-beat and their is one (1) beat of music for the “Q”: half (“&”)-1-2–3
05/30/12 WEEK ONE: Hustle “practice” techniques: EXERCISE #1 and #2: Leaders starting with weight on R ft w/L ft pointed forward (no weight) – Close L ft to R (change weight) – Fwd (R) – Fwd (L) – Back (R) repeat continuously first with straight time (1-2-3-4) to learn weight changes and not lose balance falling “back” when taking back step; when mastered – practice with syncopated rhythm: “&-1-2-3″ without hopping, without “back stepping” or “back rocking” and without “panic”! Followers: Starting with weight on L ft w/R ft pointed forward (no weight) – Close R ft to L (change weight) – Fwd (L) – Fwd (R) – Back (L) repeat continuously first with straight time (1-2-3-4) to learn weight changes and not lose balance falling “back” when taking back step; when mastered – practice with syncopated rhythm: “&-1-2-3″ without hopping, without “back stepping” or “back rocking” and without “panic”!
EXERCISE #3 and #4: Leaders starting with weight on R ft w/L ft pointed forward (no weight) – Close L ft to R (change weight) – Fwd (R) – Fwd (L) with turn to RIGHT – Back (R) repeat continuously first with straight time (1-2-3-4) to learn weight changes and not lose balance falling “back” when taking back step; also try same pattern with turn on the third step to the LEFT. When both turns are mastered – practice with syncopated rhythm: “&-1-2-3″ without hopping, without “back stepping” or “back rocking” and without “panic”! Followers: Starting with weight on L ft w/R ft pointed forward (no weight) – Close R ft to L (change weight) – Fwd (L) – Fwd (R) with turn to RIGHT – Back (L) repeat continuously first with straight time (1-2-3-4) to learn weight changes and not lose balance falling “back” when taking back step; also try same pattern with turn on the third step to the LEFT. When both turns are mastered – practice with syncopated rhythm: “&-1-2-3″ without hopping, without “back stepping” or “back rocking” and without “panic”!
06/06/12- WEEK TWO: CrossBody Lead: Leaders: weight on R ft, L leg firmly pointed to the side (hold cts “&-1″) – L ft fwd/slightly across on ct 2 commencing turn to left ending 180 degrees in opposite direction (later you can turn it more or less – leader’s choice) – Side R (ct 3) and repeat (holding on cts “&-1″). Followers: Left turning “Change of Place.”
NO LONGER AVAILABLE!
BEGINNER AMERICAN TANGO (Questions? Email ritaoc@hawaii.rr.com or 344-4452) (first-time private or semi-private students get more than 25% OFF)
05/30/12- WEEK ONE: Basic – S-S-Q-Q-S timing. Leaders (starting LOD, L ft): Fwd-Fwd-Fwd-Side-”DRAW” (moving the L leg s-l-o-w-l-y to the R leg). Followers: Natural Opposite starting with your R ft back.
Corte (curious? Here are 2 definitions: being related to Courtesy. So as a matter of courteous good manners you simply “bow”, step back and show courtesy; to cut, going back and forward like a knife or saw). S-S-Q-Q-S timing. Leaders (LOD): L ft Back-R ft Replace- L ft Fwd- R ft Side – Slowly “draw” L leg toward R leg (not closing feet). Followers: R ft Fwd (heel lead) – L ft Replace – R ft Back – L ft Side – Slow “draw” of R leg toward L leg (not closing feet).
06/06/12- WEEK TWO: Curving Basic: Same as Basic, but traveling in a “circle” to achieve the desired amount of turn. Leader travels forward with body and adds a turn through frame to create the “circle.”
NO LONGER AVAILABLE!
BEGINNER WEST COAST SWING LEVEL I: (Basic Rhythm: 1 – 2 -3&4 – 5&6) Reminder: Smooth, sliding foot patterns (no bouncing), partners should keep gentle connection through relaxed arms and soft hand holds (no gripping).
04/04/12 WEEK ONE: Left Side Pass – Leaders: starting w/L ft: back – R ft back (commence turning to L rotating shoulders to allow lady to pass in front) – (slightly off-the-ladies’-track) L ft back-R ft close-L ft fwd back on track - (now 180 degrees opposite start position – begin “anchor step”) R ft back-L ft replace-R ft back. Don’t forget to SMILE! Followers: starting w/R ft fwd – L ft fwd (commence turning to L rotating shoulders to stay parallel to man’s chest) – (stay on-slot) R ft fwd-L ft slides past R in front “crossing”-R ft back – (now 180 degrees opposite start position – begin “anchor step”) Lft back-R ft replace-L ft back. Don’t forget to SMILE!
Under Arm Turn (“U.A.T.”) Leaders: starting w/L ft: back – R ft back (commence turning to R rotating shoulders to allow lady to pass in front; begin to gentle bring L hand up to indicate an UAT positioning L hand to R side and L elbow up to same level as L hand creating the “top half” of a “window’) – (stepping slightly off-the-ladies’-slot) L ft back-R ft close-L ft fwd – (now 180 degrees opposite start position – begin “anchor step”) R ft BEHIND-L ft replace-R ft REPLACE. Homework: practice walking back on first two steps! Followers: Your footwork same as Left Side Pass (see above). Homework: practice smooth style glide without bounce or dipping.
04/11/12 WEEK TWO: Simple Starter Step (start in closed position, end in ever-so-slightly-apart semi-close position [not "closed" but "close"]) Leaders:(Basic Rhythm) – L ft side – R ft side – Triple to L (side-together-side) – Anchor Step (3rd position w/starting foot behind standing foot) keeping dance partnership hold and releasing ever-so-gently on the last step of the Anchor triple…then Leaders step back to invite the Follower to step forward (do not pull your partner)! Followers: Natural opposite…allowing man to release your back on the last step of the Anchor triple.
04/18/12 WEEK THREE: “Sugar Push” or “Push Back” Leaders: starting w/L ft: back – R ft back (slightly smaller to allow follower to come closer toward you as you stay on the track), L ft tight and back behind the R ft- R ft replace weight -L ft fwd (as Follower moves away)- Anchor Step (without moving forwrd any farther: R ft behind -L ft replace-R ft behind). Homework: practice relaxing the arms and allowing gravity to keep them low)! Followers: starting w/R ft: fwd- L ft fwd (moving in closer to leader with a relaxed arm) – R ft “presses” slightly fwd-L ft replace-R ft steps back (back to start position – begin “anchor step”) L ft behind-R ft replace-L ft replace.
04/25/12 WEEK FOUR: REVIEW
05/02/12 WEEK FIVE: Basket Whip – 8 ct step (1-2-3-&-4-5-6-7-&-8) Leaders – starting with a 2-Hand Hold (from sugar push) Leading lady fwd dance L ft straight back (1) – turning to R, R ft back (off-track) (2) with L arm beginning a head loop over passing lady’s head- close (3) – in place (&) – L ft to side “across track” (4) - R ft closes (5) Releasing Lady with your R hand – L ft steps “back on track” (6) (now 180 degrees opposite start position & facing lady – begin “anchor step”) R ft back (7) – L ft replace (&) – R ft back/in place (8). Followers (2HH): R ft fwd (1) – L ft fwd (2) – R ft fwd (3) – L ft closes to R ft (&) – R ft back – VERY carefully/don’t drop heel immediately (4) – L ft back (5) – R ft back (6) – “Anchor Step” (7-&-8)
05/09/12 WEEK SIX: REVIEW
FOXTROT LEVEL II (Smooth Dance with flow): Standard Rhythm: S-S-Q-Q where there are two (2) beats of music for the “S” and one (1) beat of music for the “Q”: 1/2 – 3/4 – 5 – 6; alternate rhythm: S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q
04/04/12 WEEK ONE: Grapevine (beginning with right turning basic – see Beginner Foxtrot Level I ) Leaders: DW dancing Right Turning Basic – end ADC; S-Q-Q-Q-Q-Q-Q-S-Q-Q Back (S); All Q: Back-Side (turning to face DW)-Fwd outside partner-Side (turning to face ADC)-Back outside partner-Side (turning to face DW; Fwd outside partner (S) ending W-Side-Close (Q-Q) end W in closed position. Followers: Natural Opposite
Sway Step: Leaders: SSQQ L Side step (optional: lifting of left rib cage to create sway shaping – NOT done through shoulders are arms, but originating in rib cage); R Side Step; Side – Close Followers: Natural Opposite
04/11/12 WEEK TWO: Tonight’s new step takes a while to learn the pattern and more even more difficult to learn the technique to execute a smooth pivot…be patient and keep practicing! Promenade Pivot: Leader’s: S-S-Q-Q rhythm throughout; Start facing W in closed position L ft fwd promenade down LOD; R ft fwd promenade dancing forward of the partner toward the right (on the ladies “LOD”/line) while leading the beginning of a right pivot – end ALOD in closed partnership position (but legs open front/back); L ft back and SLIGHTLY to the side (continuing ALOD) continuing to lead the right pivot- end LOD; R ft fwd LOD ending in promenade partnership position (making sure to continue to lead the right turning action (pivot) until the lady is in promenade position, too (leader should WAIT until follower in the proper promenade position before beginning the next “S” of the basic promenade, since lady is still coming around the pivot). Typically finished with a basic promenade. Followers: starting in closed position facing C, R ft fwd in promenade down LOD; L ft fwd in promenade down ending fwd facing LOD; R ft fwd LOD with heel lead stepping in-between man’s legs beginning to pivot right (keeping L foot back/behind the center of your body during the pivot action) – end ALOD; L ft back and slightly to the side, continuing to pivot R ending in promenade position. Man typically will lead a basic promenade after completion of the pivot.
04/18/12 WEEK THREE: REVIEW
04/25/12 WEEK FOUR: (Two steps tonight: Sway with UAT & Promenade Pivot with UAT) Sway with UAT Leaders: Dance basic Sway Step (above) leading the lady to do a spin on steps 3 & 4 (cts. 5 & 6) as you dance side close. Followers: Basic Sway Step (above) with Leader raising your right arm at the end of the second “Slow” (ct 4) indicating for you to do a fast spin on cts. 5&6. Promenade Pivot with UAT Leaders: Dance Promenade Pivot S-S-Q-Q adding 2 additional Promenade walks while leading lady to do a traveling turn; end with basic Promenade pattern as before. Followers: Dance Promenade Pivot S-S-Q-Q; man will lead a UAT for an additional Q-Q; you will do a traveling spin turn. A basic promenade step is typically lead afterwards.
05/02/12 WEEK FIVE: REVIEW
05/09/12 WEEK SIX: Guest Night! Progressive Twinkle (easiest from Box for rhythm change S-Q-Q_S-Q-Q): Leaders “prep step” Fwd L into half-box with 1/8 turn leftward as the Leader steps with smaller-than-usual side-close align DC with Follower in outside position (to Leader’s R); R Fwd turning rightward as Leader makes 1/4 turn, then smaller-than-usual side-close now facing DW with Follower in outside position (to Leader’s L); L fwd turning leftward making 1/4 turn, smaller-than-usual side-close facing DC with Follower in outside position (to Leader’s R); R Fwd turning rightward making 1/4 turn, smaller-than-usual side-close with Follower in outside position (to Leader’s LR);…after “prep step” Leader alternates R & L turns in even number increments, chosing to end this pattern when R ft is available; to end: step Fwd R facing LOD, continuing side step in LOD. Followers: Natural Opposite
Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS!
BEGINNER FOXTROT LEVEL I (Smooth Dance with LOD flow): Standard Rhythm: S-S-Q-Q where there are two (2) beats of music for the “S” and one (1) beat of music for the “Q”: 1/2 – 3/4 – 5 – 6
02/08/12 WEEK ONE: Basic: Leaders starting LOD w/L ft: Fwd – Fwd – Side – Close Followers: Natural Opposite
Right Turning Basic: (start DW) Dance the fwd Basic step commencing to lead the lady into a R 1/4 turn through your frame by the end of step 2 (ct 4) as you continue to turn R; complete the pattern with a side step & close (L, R respectively) ending ADC. Followers: Natural Opposite.
Left Back Turning Basic: (start ADC, usually following Right Turning Basic) Dance the Basic step backwards with L ft back; R ft back commencing to lead the lady into a L 1/4 turn through your frame by the end of step 2 (ct 4) as you turn L; complete the pattern with a side step and close (L, R respectively) ending DW. Followers: Natural Opposite.
02/15/12 WEEK TWO: REVIEW & Valentine’s Dance
02/22/12 – NO CLASSES
02/29/12 WEEK THREE: Promenade: Leaders starting W w/L ft: Fwd Promenade Position – Fwd Promenade Position – Side – Close Followers: Natural Opposite
03/07/12 WEEK FOUR: Left Rock Turn: Leaders L ft Fwd – R ft Back (starting to lead turn to the left – up to 1/4 turn) – Side – Close Followers: Natural Opposite
03/14/12 WEEK FIVE: Promenade with UAT: Leaders dance footwork to Promenade (above) adding the raising of their L hand connection while simultaneously releasing the lady’s back to indicate her UAT. Followers: Leader will indicate an UAT by raising your R hand connection so that you can do a slow turn during counts 1-4 (S-S; R ft-L ft) end facing your partner so that you can dance the ending side step in parallel.
03/21/12 WEEK SIX: Promenade “Dip:” Leaders dance steps 1 and 2 of Promenade where on step # 2 (ct 3 thru 4) the soften their knees to lower the dance partnership gradually, then while remaining in promenade position replace the weight to the L ft (behind) and close R ft to L while still remaining in promende position. End with a full (standard) Promenade. Followers: Natural Opposite
SALSA LEVEL II: 4/4 timing dancing 6 cts on beats 1, 2, 3 (no weight change on 4), 5, 6, 7 (no weight change on 8). Latin hip motion throughout. Feet in turn-out position (heels together).
02/08/12 WEEK ONE: CrossBody Lead (CBL) – Leaders: (entire step in closed position) – L fwd-R replace (begin turning 1/8 to left)-close L to R ft (completing 1/4 turn to left); small R back (continuing turning 1/8 to left)-L replace (complete the 1/4 turn to now face 180 degrees from your start position)-close R ft to L changing weight. Followers: R back-L replace-R forward (on a slight diagonal to the right making sure to stay to the man’s right side…do not take any big steps past him); L fwd pivoting to the left to face man while on the L ft – R back- close L to R ft.
02/15/12 WEEK TWO: Valentine’s Dance Arm Catch – Leaders: prep HSH to 2 HH; (CBL footwork) Dbl head loop ending with Leader’s R arm “hooked” under the Follower’s L arm for “Arm Catch” (HSH); inside UAT to Shoulder Catch; Fwd or Side Break to Ladies UAT. Followers: Leader’s choice of prep; CBL w/UAT Fwd Break to UAT.
02/22/12 – NO CLASSES
02/29/12 WEEK THREE: REVIEW & complete Shoulder Check ending of amalgamation.
03/07/12 WEEK FOUR: Walkaround Leaders: Open Break UAT with hand change (HSH) – Open Break UAT offering second hand as lady turns to end in 2HH L over R at the end of her turn as Leader guides his left hand to the right side of his head inviting the Follower to “walk around” his center while he keeps rhythm in-place (back-break); footwork: overturned CBL, while leading lady to continue to walkaround - end facing lady with R hand indicating UAT for next 3 cts – back break while lady does UAT (releasing 2nd hand – ending with HSH), then switching hand back to regular hold. Followers: Open Break UAT (man will change his hand) – Open Break UAT connecting with man’s L hand to end in a 2HH, but NOT closing your feet since he will lead you (through your R hand) to continue to walk forward “around him” for the 5-6-7/8 ending with the follower facing the man as he indicates UAT as next step – UAT (and man will switch hands back to standard hold).
Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS!
03/14/12 WEEK FIVE & WEEK SIX 03/21/12: Side-by-Side: Leaders: 1M CBL releasing ladies back while leading L arm down to your L side; 2M Back break w/NO turn allowing lady to end by leader’s L side (1 HH); Back Break (L ft)-Replace (R)-Fwd (L) beginning to turn toward partner; “point” (no weight change) ct 5- turn away to resume side-by-side position ct 6 without weight change – back ct 7 (R ft) (REPEAT back breaks to facing “point” 3 times); begin Back Break-Replace-Close sharply turning left to face lady leading her to UAT; back (R ft ct 5)-replace-close. Followers: 1M first-half of CBL ; 2M Fwd (L)-Fwd/Pivot overturned-Close to end by leader’s L side (1 HH); Back Break (R ft)-Replace (L)-Fwd (R) beginning to turn toward partner; “tap” (no weight change) ct 5- turn away to resume side-by-side position ct 6 without weight change – back ct 7 (R ft) (REPEATED at Leader’s discretion); begin Back Break-Replace-Close turning immediately to face Leader; UAT to close.
BEGINNER SALSA LEVEL I: 4/4 timing dancing 6 cts on beats 1, 2, 3 (no weight change on 4), 5, 6, 7 (no weight change on 8). Latin hip motion throughout. Feet in turn-out position (heels together).
11/30/11 WEEK ONE: Basic – Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft replace/in-place ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3; continued hip action ct 4 – no weight change. R ft back (do not drop the heel) ct 5; L ft replace/in-place ct 6; R ft closes to L ft ct 7; continued hip action ct 8 – no weight change. Followers: Natural opposite.
Side Breaks – Leaders: L ft side ct 1; R ft replace/in-place ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3; continued hip action ct 4 – no weight change. R ft side ct 5; L ft replace/in-place ct 6; R ft closes to L ft ct 7; continued hip action ct 8 – no weight change. Followers: Natural opposite.
Alternating Side Breaks – Leaders: (preceded by “Side Break”): L ft side ct 1; R ft replace/in-place ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3; continued hip action ct 4 – no weight change. R ft side ct 5; L ft replace/in-place ct 6; R ft closes to L ft ct 7 without weight change (leaving the R ft available); ”hold” ct 8 – no weight change. Repeat Side Breaks now starting from the R side (for the second time) while the Follower is moving in the opposite direction (remember to give arm length to your partner so she can move in the opposite direction); when the Leader desires to be back in sync with the Follower, he will do two R Side Breaks with no weight change at the end: R ft side ct 5; L ft replace/in-place ct 6; R ft closes to L ft ct 7 without weight change (leaving the R ft available); “hold” ct 8 – no weight change on the first one and then with weight change on the second one. Followers: Continue standard Side Breaks (without any changes).
12/07/11 WEEK TWO: Open Break to Ladies Underarm Turn (U.A.T.) – (usually preceded by a basic) Leaders: starting on ct 7/8 of the basic release the lady’s back connection and start to lower your L hand connection. Continuing to lower your hand, step back on your L ft, replace R ft ct 2 as you start to raise your L hand, and as you close L ft to R on ct 3/4 complete raising your hand to indicate a UAT for the lady on the upcoming step (do NOT turn her, just raise the arm up); back break on R ft on ct 5 allowing the lady to turn, replace close R ft to L as you lower the ladies’ hand back to neutral position allowing her to complete the turn; close R ft to L on cts 7 & 8. Followers: (usually prceded by a basic): leader will lower hand on or about cts. 7/8 from the previous step as he releases your back. R ft back (ct 1), replace L ft, close R ft to L (his arm will be raised to indicate that your next step will be a UAT; ensure that your R arm is at a 90 degree angle at elbow, and no higher); UAT: L ft fwd at “2 o’clock” with half-turn to right (ct 5); R ft fwd replacing weight with approx. 1/4 turn/spin to face partner on ct 6; L ft closes to R ft on cts 7/8.
12/14/11 WEEK THREE (with “Holiday Gift of Dance” from Rita – 6 dance demo with Art Lashbrook, CA)
Man’s Relay Turn (outside/right) – Leaders: preceeded by ladies UAT (right) remaining in open position, lower connected hand to repeat an Open Break, but on count 1 man steps L ft forward to commence his turn (2 o’clock) while “relay-ing” the lady’s hand from his left to right hand- R replace turning to face partner as he begins to raise his R arm to signal an UAT for the lady -close L ft to R; keeping arm raised to allow lady to do her UAT, leader steps R ft back-replace-close. Followers – Follow man’s lead to Open Break Ladies UAT (steps 1 – 6, cts 1 -8); begin another open break (R ft back-replace-close) as man does his turn (“relay-ing” your right hand to his right hand, then raising it to lead you into a UAT); continue to UAT (R UAT) on cts. 5-6-7/8.
Ladies “Double” Turn (inside/left) – Leaders: preceeded by ladies UAT (right) remaining in open position, lower connected hand to repeat an Open Break, but on count 3 man raises L arm to R side to lead lady to inside turn as he steps L ft back-replace-close with a quarter turn to the L; keeping arm raised to allow lady to continue turning, leader steps R ft back-replace-close with a quarter turn to the L, now ending 180 degrees from his starting position; repeat another open break to ladies’ R UAT. Followers – Follow man’s lead to Open Break UAT; another Open Break and on ct 3 man will lead you to begin a left/inside traveling turn that will pass him on his R side (back-replace-fwd beginning to turn leftward); continue turning leftward while traveling foward on cts 5 & 6 and step back on ct 7 (size apprpriate for relation of leader and follower’s partnership; Man will lead another Open Break UAT (R UAT) immediately following
BEGINNER QUICKSTEP LEVEL I: 4/4 timing. International Standard dance (a “fast foxtrot”) typically danced in S-Q-Q rhythm and flowing in a lively fashion around the ballroom floor with a “pep,” and light, energetic action.
11/30/11 WEEK ONE: Quarter Turn with Progressive Chasse (“Basic”) S-S-Q-Q-S/S-Q-Q/S-S-Q-Q. Leaders: DW – (Prep Step) L ft fwd; R ft fwd commencing turn to R dancing L-side progressive chasse moving sideways (L ft side; R ft closes to L; L ft side) while slowly turning rightward ending ADC; R ft back; commencing turn to L dancing L-side progressive chasse moving sideways (L ft side; R ft closes to L; L ft side) while slowly turning leftward ending DW. Followers: Natural opposite.
12/07/11 WEEK TWO: Forward Lock Step S-Q-Q-S/S-Q-Q-S. Leaders: DW – (usually following the Quarter Turn with Progressive Chasse – above) R ft fwd Heel-toe (S) commencing to lead outside partner position through “left shoulder lead” rotation; L ft fwd Toe in outside partner position (Q), R ft ”locks” behind R ft Toe; L ft Fwd to closed position Toe-Heel (class pattern will do two Fwd Locks). Followers: Natural opposite: (usually following the Quarter Turn with Progressive Chasse – above) L ft back (leaders will lead outside partner position -remain parallel to partner with your right shoulder rotated “back”; R ft back Toe in outside partner position (Q), L ft “locks” in front of R ft Toe; R ft Back to closed position Toe-Heel (class pattern will do two Fwd Locks).
12/14/11 WEEK THREE: Natural Turn to Hesitation S-Q-Q/S-S-S. Leaders: DW following the Fwd Lock Step: Fwd R commence turning R into a “Natural” (rightward) turn, Side L continuing Natural Turn ending ALOD, closing R ft to L. Back L ft continue turning R (collecting ft), Side R ft (slightly smaller to allow for woman to make the turn), “Draw” L ft to R (do not close or “stand up”, but stay low and “drag” the leg together, not necessarily the feet). Followers: Natural opposite (keep the frame throughout Quickstep)!
BEGINNER BACHATA LEVEL I: 4/4 timing throughout; 8 cts = one basic step pattern; an ever-growing popular club dance. Leaders begin with L ft, Followers with R ft with hip action.
10/12/11 WEEK ONE: Side Basic- Leaders: L ft side ct 1; R ft side closing to L ft ct 2; L ft side ct 3; R ft “touch”/”tap” marking ct 4. Repeat to the right side for cts. 5-8. Followers: Natural opposite. Fwd & Back Basic- Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft passing or closing to L ft ct 2; L ft fwd ct 3; R ft “touch”/”tap” marking ct 4. Repeat moving in reverse/”backwards” for cts. 5-8. Followers: Natural opposite. 4 ct Slow Basic- Leaders: without immediately changing weight L ft reaches to the left side ct 1 and weight is s-l-o-w-l-y transferred to L ft by ct 4. Repeat to the right side for cts. 5-8. Followers: Natural opposite. 2 ct Slow Basic- Leaders: without immediately changing weight L ft reaches to the left side ct 1 and weight is transferred to L ft on ct 2. Repeat to the right side for cts. 3-4. Repeat pattern twice to complete 8 cts. Followers: Natural opposite. Open Break to Ladies R & L UAT- Leaders: Side Basic to the left; Side Basic to the right while releasing the ladies’ back and slowly lower your left hand (connected to her right) by ct. 8. As leader begins next Side Basic (starting to the left), raise the connected arm for lady to do UAT. As leader begins second half of side basic to the right, create a “window” leaving arm up for lady to dance a left/”inside” UAT. Leader can bring arm back to neutral/start frame position gently to resume a Side Basic. Followers: Side Basic to the right; Side Basic to the left as man releases your back and slowly lowers your right hand (connected to his left) while you move slightly away from the leader on a diagonal line (gradual). As leader begins to raise the connected arm to do UAT, step side to right w/half-turn on R ft; close L ft to R ft continuing to turn rightward; step side R facing the leader, now completing the right UAT. Leader begins second half of side basic to the left keeping the connected arm raised, creates a “window” for a left/”inside” UAT; dance side to left w/half-turn on L ft; close R ft to L ft continuing to turn leftward; step side L facing the leader, now completing the left Inside UAT. Leader can bring arm back to neutral/start frame position gently to resume a Side Basic.
10/19/11 WEEK TWO: Man’s Relay Turn- Leaders: Half Side Basic to Open Break to Ladies’ R UAT (see previous week for detailed step instructions); begin to lower connected L hand as Leader does R turn while passing the Ladies’ hand from his L to his R hand by the completion of his turn (ending with Hand Shake Hold “HSH” connection); lead Lady to R UAT – at completion of her turn, pass her hand from your R to L hand; lead Lady to L inside UAT to complete this pattern. Followers: Half Side Basic to Open Break to Ladies’ R UAT (see previous week for detailed step instructions); man begins to lower connected L hand as Leader does R turn – Ladies do L side Basic while Leader passes the Ladies’ hand from his L to his R hand by the completion of his turn (ending with Hand Shake Hold “HSH” connection); Lady is lead to R UAT – at completion of her turn; L inside UAT to complete this pattern.
Hammerlock – Leaders: Side Basic to the left; Side Basic to the right while releasing the ladies’ back and slowly lower your left hand (connected to her right) keeping your R arm “lifted” so that Lady “slides down” your arm into a 2HH by ct. 8. Beginning Basic (starting to the left), raise the L connected arm for lady to do UAT keeping the R hand connection relaxed so that the Lady can turn around to face you in the “Hammerlock” position. As leader begins second half of side basic to the right, create a “window” leaving arm up for lady to dance a left/”inside” UAT ending in (continued) 2HH. Leader can release R-to-L HH and bring arm back to neutral/start frame position gently to resume a Side Basic. Followers: Side Basic to the right; Side Basic to the left as man releases your back and slowly lowers your right hand (connected to his left) while you move slightly away from the leader on a diagonal line (gradual) and slide your L arm down his R arm into a 2HH by ct. 8. As leader begins to raise the connected R arm to do UAT, step side to right w/half-turn on R ft; close L ft to R ft continuing to turn rightward; step side R facing the leader, now completing the right UAT in a “Hammerlock” position, but parallel to the Leader. Leader begins second half of side basic to the left keeping the connected arm raised, creates a “window” for a left/”inside” UAT; dance side to left w/half-turn on L ft; close R ft to L ft continuing to turn leftward; step side L facing the leader, now completing the left Inside UAT. Leader can bring arm back to neutral/start frame position gently to resume a Side Basic.
10/26/11 WEEK THREE BONUS Lessons (Pre-Halloween Party): Dip: Leaders – Half Side Basic and instead of “tap”/hip action on ct. 4, lower through L leg remaining vertical and slightly (10-15 degrees) rotate to the L (in that order) to lead lady into a soft dip; resume with secondhalf of Side Basic to the right. Followers – Half Side Basic; as Leader starts to lower while you’re on your R leg, lower with him and as he rotates his body stay parallell to him as you lift your L leg & look over your L shoulder (being careful not to throw yourself backwards).
THANK YOU Juan & Cindy Dawson for guiding the class through the remainder of the classes while Rita was on vacation!
WALTZ LEVEL II: 3/4 timing throughout; 6 cts = one basic step pattern; a smooth dance with traveling steps moving L.O.D. with Rise “& Fall” action and strong side sway action; Leaders begin with L ft, Followers with R ft. Fwd steps with heel lead on counts 1 and/or 4; Back steps with toe; side steps with toe/ball of foot. Heel-toe, toe, toe-heel on fwd actions; toe, toe, toe-heel on back actions.
10/06/11 WEEK ONE: REVIEWED: Box-Progressive Twinkles (ending “back” into) – L Turning Box (ending W) – Fwd Hesitation to 1 M L Turning Box.
NEW: Left & Right Turn Combination – new pattern, but did not complete instruction – Leaders: (6M start DC): Fwd L 3/8 turn ending Against Line of Dance (ALOD); Back 3/8 L turn ending DW; 1/2 Fwd Basic no turn through 10/06/11); with R ft Fwd R turn 3/8 ending ALOD); Back R 3/8 turn ending DC; w/R ft. 1/2 Fwd Basic ending LOD (current class alignment). Followers: Natural opposite.
10/26/11 WEEK THREE BONUS Lessons (Pre-Halloween Party): Develope: Leaders – There is nothing to “lead;” this is a “Lady’s Option” embellishment typically done on the Fwd or Promenade Hesitation steps. Followers - When lead into a Back Hesitation (making sure that the area in front of you/behind the man is “clear”), take your step on ct. 1, slowly lift your L ft up alongside your R ankle to calf with toe pointed down and the instep of your L ft. rest on the inside of your R knee on ct. 2, completing your step by extending your L (lower) leg (from the knee down) into a fully extended leg line on ct. 3; gently lower at the end of 3 to begin the next step!
THANK YOU Les Grimes & Julie Katz for guiding the class through the remainder of the classes while Rita was on vacation!
BEGINNER WALTZ LEVEL I: 3/4 timing throughout; 6 cts = one basic step pattern; a smooth dance with traveling steps moving L.O.D. with Rise “& Fall” action and strong side sway action; Leaders begin with L ft, Followers with R ft. Fwd steps with heel lead on counts 1 and/or 4; Back steps with toe; side steps with toe/ball of foot. Heel-toe, toe, toe-heel on fwd actions; toe, toe, toe-heel on back actions.
08/31/11 WEEK ONE: Box – Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft side ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3. R ft back ct 4; L ft side ct 5; R ft closes to L ft ct 6. Followers: Natural opposite.
Basic (Fwd) – Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft side ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3. R ft fwd ct 4; L ft side ct 5; R ft closes to L ft ct 6. Followers: Natural opposite.
Box with Ladies’ U.A.T. – Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft side ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3. R ft back ct 4 begin to raise L arm straight up (just enough for the lady to walk under), while simultaneously releasing her back with your right arm (the follower begins her turn on the next step, but it’s important that you lead her on the 4th step); L ft side ct 5; R ft closes to L ft ct 6; repeat box step pattern until lady comes back around into your arms (do not reach for her). Followers: Steps 1 – 3 of the box; L ft fwd as man slowly raises your right arm up (to indicate your next step); beginning with ct 5 dance fwd in a circular fashion, ct 6 – 9 fwd steps (follow Rise & Fall technique listed above); finish the step meeting up with the man on by ct. 12 (as he’s finishing the last half of the box).
09/7/11 WEEK TWO: Hesitation – Leaders: Forward/Back Hesitations: L ft fwd s-l-o-w-l-y for cts 1 through 3; R ft back s-l-o-w-l-y for cts 4 through 6. Followers: Natural opposite. Side Hesitations: Leaders: L ft slide s-l-o-w-l-y for cts 1 through 3; R ft side s-l-o-w-l-y for cts 4 through 6. Followers: Natural opposite.
Left Turning Box – Leaders: (starting LOD): Fwd (then start leading turn to the left)-Side-Close (full quarter turn – now facing Center); Back (then start leading turn to the left)-Side-Close (full quarter turn – now facing ALOD); Fwd (then
start leading turn to the left)-Side-Close (full quarter turn – now facing Wall); Back (then start leading turn to the left)-Side-Close (full quarter turn – now facing LOD) Followers: (starting ALOD): Natural Opposite: Back-Side-Close (turning left upon man’s lead); Fwd-Side-Close (turning left); Back-Side-Close (turning left); Fwd-Side-Close (turning left).
REMINDER: NO CLASSES on Wednesday, 9/21/11! Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS!
09/14/11 WEEK THREE: Progressive Twinkle – Leaders: Easiest to commence after a box: Fwd L (beginning to turn 1/8 to L), Side R, Close L to R with Lady “outside partner” on right side (end DC); Fwd R beginning to turn 1/4 to R, Side L, Close R to L with Lady “outside partner” on leader’s left side (end DW); Fwd L beginning to turn 1/4 to L, Side R, Close L to R with Lady “outside partner” on leader’s right side (end DC) – repeat turning R & L measures as desired ending facing DW…to complete the variation ending for this step: Back R (“2nd half of the box”) beginning to turn 1/8 to L (facing C); continuing turning box L until desired alignment (LOD – for this introductory class; W – for the class pattern). Followers: Back R (Leader will begin to turn partnership 1/8 to L), Side L, Close R to L (positioned “outside partner” ending on the man’s right side (end ADC); Back L (leader will turn 1/4 to R), Side R, Close L to R (positioned “outside partner” ending on the man’s left side (end ADW); leader’s choice to repeat “progressive twinkle” measures as desired ending facing ADC…to complete the step the man will lead you fwd L – side – close (2nd half of box) as he continues to dance a turning L box to desired alignment.
EAST COAST SWING LEVEL II:
08/31/11 WEEK ONE: Throwout to 2HH: Leader – Start Basic moving to the side (L) as you start to turn your upper body to the left so that by the end of the “&-2″ you have made a sharp L turning action beginning to release the follower’s back with your right hand so that she can freely move away from the partnership; as you move to the side (to the R) the partnership will be separating, keep your R arm elevated so that she slides down your R arm into a 2HH; remain parallel as you both continue the basic rhythm. You are now in 2 HH. Followers – Start Basic and move to the side in partnership with the man as he begins to turn the partnership in a leftward fashion; at the end of the triple to the side, he will release the closed partnership hold at the base of your left shoulder blade and you will slide your left hand down his R arm during the second triple to the left staying parallel to the man and not drifting too far away from the connection. You are now in 2HH.
Hamerlock to Inside Turn. Leaders: Starting in 2HH position. Leading with just L arm (keeping R arm relaxed), lead UAT; when lady completes her turn she will be in a “hammerlock” with her L arm behind her (L hand on her R side) and still connected to your L hand also. Leaders, do a forward break (like a basic), then lead her to an inside/left 1.5 turn while you stay on-spot changing your direction to the R until you are 180 degrees from where you started (remember to release your R hand from her “back” hand while she is dancing her 1.5 turns; easiest ending: another open break (1HH) to simple UAT. Followers: Starting in 2HH; Leader will indicate an UAT (keep both hands connected – do not “hold onto”
the leader’s hand). Back break (as Leaders moves with you in his forward break), then Leader will invite you to do an inside UAT to your L – this 1.5 turn travels to the other side of the partnership; ends with standard open break UAT.
Shoulder Check - Leaders – From open position, lead lady into a left UAT (inside UAT) to your right as you stay IN-PLACE turning to your left (beginning at lady’s elbow, make a connection with your R hand and gently slide it along her arm, her right shoulder-blade, her left shoulder-blade with a gentle touch); changing the basic rhythm of the ECSwing, man will “check” forward (and across) with his R foot only forward enough to allow his arm to extend and give the lady plenty of room to do her back-break without being pulled off-balance (okay for the man’s hand to drop to the lady’s waist) – this is called an opposition break; leading the lady to coming out of her left UAT, the man raises his L arm while releasing the lady’s back and dancing in-place turning L to face the lady, dancing to the right on the second triple. Followers: From open position the man will lead you into a left UAT (inside UAT) but will connect with you (beginning with your elbow, then sliding up your arm to your R, then L shoulder blades) indicating that you are not to complete the full L UAT; Lady does a back-rock on her LEFT foot (remember to use the HIP and take a SMALL back rock); the man will raise the right arm for the lady to do a R UAT (ending moving L); “back stroke” (with L arm close to the ladies ear and hand up high) is a simple embellishment to do during the back break on her L ft (opposition break).
09/7/11 WEEK TWO: Back-to-Back w/Flicks- Leaders: Triple Step – on the last ct of the triple to the left (#2) release the ladies back and turn the connecting hand-only (from the wrist) clockwise (right) to initiate a back-to-back turn (turning yourself at the end of the triple); do the second triple to your right (now back-to-back with the lady); without traveling farther/with weight on your right ft, “flick” your left leg across your standing leg and from the knee down do 2 flicks on the single beats in lieu of the “back-rock” counts; triple to your left and at the end, turn the connecting hand counter-clockwise (left) to initiate a return to face-to-face position (turning yourself at the end of the triple); do your second triple to your right (usually end in open position). Followers: Back-Rock; Triple Step – on the last ct (#2) of the triple leader will initiate a back-to-back turn; do the second triple to your left (now back-to-back with the leader); without traveling farther/with weight on your left foot, “flick” your right leg across your standing leg and from the knee down do 2 flicks on the single beats in lieu of the “back-rock” counts; triple to your right and at the end of the triple the leader will initiate a return to face-to-face position; do your second triple to your left (usually end in open position).
REMINDER: NO CLASSES on Wednesday, 9/21/11! Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS!
09/14/11 WEEK THREE: Whip (or “Lindy Whip” or “Lindy Timing”) Leaders: From open position, triple to L side turning toward your right while bringing Follower into closed position; keeping the momentum of the turn to the right
going, dancing cross-behind (“7″) and side step (“11″) on straight time/single beats creating a “whip” or strong turning action (class step 6 times, but can be done any even-numbered amount of counts); end with triple step to the right & back rock.
Followers: From open position, triple (fwd-side-cross in front) while man brings you into closed position with a strong right turning direction; continue turning right dancing side step then “cross”-in-front (slide) on straight time/single
beats (be sure to be parallel to the man – not perpendicular or walking around the man); man will lead you out to complete your left side triples, then back-rock.
BEGINNER EAST COAST SWING LEVEL I Syncopated Rhythm: Q-&-Q, Q-&-Q, Q, Q (1-&-2; 3-&-4; 5-6)
08/13/11 WEEK ONE: Basic – Leaders: 1&2-3&4-5-6; Side L – Together/closing R to L – Side L; Side R – Together/closing L to R – Side R; “Back” L (slightly behind R ft) – “Rock”/Replace R. Followers: Natural Opposite.
Ladies Right(“Outside”) Underarm Turn (UAT) – Leaders: precede with Basic (above); After Back- Rock beginning to lead lady to UAT by lifting L arm up as Leader dances the Side-Together-Side to the L on 3&4; at the end of 4 Leader turns 1/4 to L to remain parallel to Follower, then dances second half of Basic Side-Together-Side to the R as Leader lowers L arm signaling the end of the turn; ending “back rock.” Followers: Side-Together-Side to the R on 3&4 making a 1/4 turn to the R “under the connected arm” (end facing Leader); dance second half of Basic Side-Together-Side to the L on 5&6; ending “back rock.”
Ladies Left (“Inside”) Underarm Turn (UAT) – Leaders:beginning in open position; begin to lead lady to Inside UAT by lifting L arm up and across to Leader’s R side while dancing 1&2 in-place turning to R up to a 1/4 turn following Lady to remain parallel to Follower, then dances second half of Basic Side-Together-Side to the R as Leader lowers L arm signaling the end of the turn; back-rock. Followers: Side-Together-Side slightly forward turning to the L on 1&2 making a 1/4 turn “under the connected arm” (end facing Leader); dance second half of Basic Side-Together-Side to the L on 3&4; back-rock.
Open to Closed Basic – Leaders after back-rock: Draw connected L arm toward L outer thigh slowly bringing lady toward you while dancing Side L – Together/closing R to L – Side L; Side R – Together/closing L to R – Side R as you begin to return to closed position partnership. Followers After back-rock (R/L); being lead to the side and slightly forward toward partner while dancing Side R – Together/closing L to R – Side R; Side L – Together/closing R to L – Side L as you begin to return to closed position partnership.
07/20/11 WEEK TWO: Back Walks to Flicks – Leaders: First 4 cts of basic (1&2-3&4) – instead of back rock, lead lady to 4 walks back (leaders L-R-L-R); Flick L ft – Flick R ft leading lady to (re)turn to face leader then change weight to R ft; L ft flick slightly to the outside (leftward) to allow lady to kick inside/in-betwee your legs, close ft, change weight, gentlely flick R ft forward in-between ladies legs; ”Back” L (slightly behind R ft) – “Rock”/Replace R. Followers: Natural Opposite.
07/27/11 WEEK THREE: Man’s UAT – preceded by Ladies UAT. Leaders after back-rock: “slightly” moving forward toward left triple step (drawing feet together on 2nd step of triple) as you raise your L arm (on your side of the partnership) to “lead yourself” into an UAT (you do not turn until ct 2 – 3rd step of triple); on L ft (ct 2) turn leftward to face partner as you triple to the right side (not moving “away”) ; in open position back-rock. Followed by Ladies Left UAT, etc. Followers: after back-rock: “slightly” moving forward in triple step (drawing feet together on 2nd step of triple); observing where the man turns “to”, follow in parallel poissition to face partner as man completes his UAT, then triple to the left side, end with back-rock.
08/03/11 WEEK FOUR: Man’s ”Hands-free” Belly/Wrap Turn - EXACT same footwork as Man’s UAT, but different lead: preceded by Ladies UAT. Leaders after back-rock: “slightly” moving forward toward left triple step (drawing feet together on 2nd step of triple) as you dance toward your L arm (placing the ladies hand on your abdomen) to “lead yourself” into an Wrap Turn (you do not turn until ct 2 – 3rd step of triple); on L ft (ct 2) turn leftward to face partner as her hand travels around your body “wrapping” around you, then triple to the right side (not moving “away”) ; in open position back-rock. Followed by Ladies Left UAT, etc. Followers: after back-rock: “slightly” moving forward in triple step (drawing feet together on 2nd step of triple); observing where the man turns “to”, follow in parallel poissition to face partner as your hand travels around his body “wrapping” him, then triple to the left side, end with back-rock.
08/10/11 WEEK FIVE: Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Man’s “Relay” (hand exchange) Turn – EXACT same footwork as Man’s UAT, but different lead: preceded by Ladies UAT. Leaders after back-rock: “slightly” moving forward toward left triple step (drawing feet together on 2nd step of triple) as you dance toward your L arm place right hand gently on top of ladies’ hand (in connection by the end of the triple step); Turn on L ft (ct 2) switching her hand back to your left hand behind your back (you do not turn until ct 2 – 3rd step of triple); turn leftward to face partner, then triple to the right side (not moving “away”) ; in open position back-rock. Followed by Ladies Left UAT, etc. Followers: after back-rock: “slightly” moving forward in triple step (drawing feet together on 2nd step of triple); observing where the man turns “to”, follow in parallel poissition to face partner as your hand travels around his body “wrapping” him, then triple to the left side, end with back-rock.
BEGINNER RUMBA LEVEL I (Latin Dance): Rhythm: S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q where there are two (2) beats of music for the “S” and one (1) beat of music for the “Q”: 1/2 – 3 – 4; 5/6 – 7 – 8
06/01/11 WEEK ONE: Box (Basic): Leaders: Fwd-Side-Close (change weight); Back-Side-Close (there is no “tap” or collection of feet on steps 2 or 6). Toe lead (or ball-flat) throughout. Followers: Natural Opposite
Box w/Ladies U.A.T.: Leaders: Two consecutive box steps with UAT lead on ct 5/6 of the first box by raising hand just high enough for partner to walk under; follower will walk in circle to leader’s left returning back into the embrace. Followers: Half box cts 1-4; L Fwd toward leader (he will raise your right hand to indicate a slow UAT walking forward and under) taking 6 steps in a circle to reach the leader, then joining him on the R side; L close (ready to start the box again.
Outside Partner (S-Q-Q throughout): Leaders: Half box cts 1-4; R side step (S) starting to make 1/8 turn with frame to right; L fwd outside partner (Q) – R replace (Q) – L side step (S) making turn to opposite diagonal corner to the left; R fwd outside partner (Q) – L replace (Q) – R side step (S) making turn to opposite left diagonal corner; L fwd outside partner (Q) – R replace (Q) – L side step (S) making turn to opposite left diagonal corner; R fwd outside partner (Q) – L replace (Q) – R BACK (S) beginning second half of original box – L side- R closes to L (ending on a slight diagonal from orignal start position. Followers: Natural Opposite.
06/08/11 WEEK TWO: Crossover (S-Q-Q throughout): Leaders: Half box cts 1-4; R side step (S) starting to lead an open position make 1/4 turn with frame to right leading lady in mirror position; L fwd partner (Q) – R replace (Q) – L side step (S) making 1/4 left turn to opposite wall; R fwd (Q) – L replace (Q) – R side step (S) making turn to opposite wall; Leader repeats as desired finishing Crossover pattern with L fwd (Q) – R replace (Q) – L side step (S) making turn to face partner while raising left arm to lead UAT; R back (while lady turns – Q) – L replace (Q) – R CLOSES (S) - L side-(Q) – R closes to L (Q). Followers: Half box cts 1-4; L side step (S) starting to make 1/4 turn to left; R fwd (Q) – L replace (Q) - R side step (S) making 1/4 right turn to opposite wall; L fwd (Q) - R replace (Q) - L side step (S) making turn to opposite wall; Leader repeats as desired finishing Crossover pattern with R fwd (Q) - L replace (Q) - R side step (S) to face partner while raising left arm indicating UAT; L fwd @ “2 o’clock” – turn (Q) - R fwd/replace – turn (Q) - L CLOSES (S) - R side-(Q) - L closes to R (Q).
06/15/11 WEEK THREE: Rocks (S-Q-Q throughout): Leaders: Precede with Box (Basic); Fwd L (S) - Fwd R (beginning fwd rock) -Replace L – Replace R (Q-Q-S) – Fwd L (beginning second fwd rock) – Replace R – Replace L (Q-Q-S) -R side (Q) – L closes to R (Q); Back R (S) – Back L (beginning back rock) – Replace R – Replace L (Q-Q-S) – Back R (beginning second back rock) – Replace L – Replace R (Q-Q-S) – L side-(Q) – R closes to L (Q). Followers: Natural opposite.
06/22/11 WEEK FOUR: Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Crossover to Alternating UAT (see notes above for Crossover): after Leading the Follower to a R UAT (Leaders dancing side (S)-back (Q)-replace (Q) step to the R side on the S (instead of closing feet to end the step) and raise Leader’s R hand (visual lead) indicating for lady to step to her L; Leader dances his UAT w/L ft @ “2 o’clock” 100% weight change, then turning R; replace R ft (bringing L to R ft) continuing to turn R end facing partner, but then stepping to the L side raising L arm (visual lead) to indicate the Follower’s UAT. Leader repeats as desired ending with Ladies R UAT “last” and closing his feet (and thereby her’s) after the desired “last turn” and then finishes the step and Rumba rhythm with side-close (Q-Q). Followers: Crossover to UAT dancing Q-Q of your turn ending parallel to your partner to see if he will close ft (stay in place) or take a side step to your L (in this case, he will step to the side to indicate “more to come” and he will lead himself into an UAT where you will step back on your R ft-replace L (Q-Q) and he will lead you to the R side for your UAT; Leader choses desired number of alternating UAT ending with the Follower’s R turn when he closes his feet to signal the same for you; finish pattern with side-close (R-L) (Q-Q).
Julie Claire Holmes Dance Scholarship Event for Maui’s Youth (THIS SATURDAY @ KCC 6 – 10 pm). Potluck – Dancing (Live & DJ music) – Silent Auction – Performances! See you there!
RUMBA LEVEL II (Latin Dance): Rhythm: S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q where there are two (2) beats of music for the “S” and one (1) beat of music for the “Q”: 1/2 – 3 – 4; 5/6 – 7 – 8
07/13/11 WEEK ONE: CrossBody Lead: Leaders dance 1/2 box (cts 1-4); while leading the lady into a CBL dance position as the leader commences to step directly back on cts 5-6 turning 1/4 to the left; continuing to turn leftward, leader dances L ft side – R ft closing to L (without stopping the turning action of the partnership); leader steps L fwd (now 180 degrees directional change from where they started as woman pivots to close partnership in parallel position completing the action with R ft side – L ft closing to R; leader finishes with 1/2 box back. Followers: 1/2 box starting R ft back (cts 1 – 4); with lead to indicate change of partnership alignment, lady turns body position 1/8 rightward, dancing L ft fwd toward man, then R ft fwd on the slight diagonal to the right, L ft fwd into leftward pivot to return to parallel facing dance hold; R ft back upon man’s lead – L ft side – R ft closing; L fwd finishing second 1/2 of box step.
07/20/11 WEEK TWO: Back Spot Turn: Leaders – Half-Box (S-Q-Q) to Open Break (Q-Q); L ft Fwd turning right ending to side (“11″) – R ft behind L continue turning right – L ft side continue turning right (S-Q-Q); keeping Rumba rhythm R ft behind-L ft side – R ft behind; L ft side – R ft behind – L ft closes to R ft; dance Fifth Position Break to UAT. Follower – Half-Box (S-Q-Q) to Open Break (Q-Q); R ft fwd turning right in closed parallel position with Leader – L ft side continue turning right – R ft in front of L continue turning right – L ft side (Q-Q-S); keeping Rumba rhythm throughout R ft in front – L ft side - R ft in front; L ft side – R ft in front – L ft side (Leader will have stopped rotating, but you will complete the rotation); Man will lead Fifth Position and continue as desired.
07/27/11 WEEK THREE: Continued to refine Back Spot Turn (Week Two above).
08/03/11 WEEK FOUR: Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Continued to refine Back Spot Turn (Week Two above).
08/10/11 WEEK FIVE: Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Back Spot Turn with Ladies Inside UAT (“Oreo”): Leaders – Half-Box (S-Q-Q) to Open Break (Q-Q); L ft Fwd turning right ending to side (“11″) – R ft behind L continue turning right – L ft side continue turning right (S-Q-Q); keeping Rumba rhythm R ft behind (Q) -L ft side (Q) - R ft behind (S); Begin to lead Inside UAT bringing L arm across to R side as you lower R arm to lady’s waist for guidance; contine to dance Back Spot Turn: L ft side – R ft behind – L ft closes to R ft; dance Fifth Position Break to UAT. Follower – Half-Box (S-Q-Q) to Open Break (Q-Q); R ft fwd turning right in closed parallel position with Leader – L ft side continue turning right – R ft in front of L continue turning right – L ft side (Q-Q-S); keeping Rumba rhythm throughout commence (leftward) Inside UAT making sure to keep R elbow down: R ft in front (turning L)- L ft side – R ft in front; L ft side – R ft in front – L ft side (Leader will have stopped rotating, but you will complete the rotation); Man will lead Fifth Position and continue as desired.
BEGINNER HUSTLE LEVEL I (Club Dance): Rhythm: Syncopation: &-1-2-3 where there ”&” beat indicates a half-beat and their is one (1) beat of music for the “Q”: half (“&”)-1-2–3
06/01/11 WEEK ONE: Hustle “practice” techniques: EXERCISE #1 and #2: Leaders starting with weight on R ft w/L ft pointed forward (no weight) – Close L ft to R (change weight) – Fwd (R) – Fwd (L) – Back (R) repeat continuously first with straight time (1-2-3-4) to learn weight changes and not lose balance falling ”back” when taking back step; when mastered – practice with syncopated rhythm: “&-1-2-3″ without hopping, without ”back stepping” or “back rocking” and without ”panic”! Followers: Starting with weight on L ft w/R ft pointed forward (no weight) – Close R ft to L (change weight) – Fwd (L) – Fwd (R) – Back (L) repeat continuously first with straight time (1-2-3-4) to learn weight changes and not lose balance falling ”back” when taking back step; when mastered – practice with syncopated rhythm: “&-1-2-3″ without hopping, without ”back stepping” or “back rocking” and without ”panic”!
EXERCISE #3 and #4: Leaders starting with weight on R ft w/L ft pointed forward (no weight) – Close L ft to R (change weight) – Fwd (R) – Fwd (L) with turn to RIGHT - Back (R) repeat continuously first with straight time (1-2-3-4) to learn weight changes and not lose balance falling ”back” when taking back step; also try same pattern with turn on the third step to the LEFT. When both turns are mastered – practice with syncopated rhythm: “&-1-2-3″ without hopping, without ”back stepping” or “back rocking” and without ”panic”! Followers: Starting with weight on L ft w/R ft pointed forward (no weight) – Close R ft to L (change weight) – Fwd (L) – Fwd (R) with turn to RIGHT - Back (L) repeat continuously first with straight time (1-2-3-4) to learn weight changes and not lose balance falling ”back” when taking back step; also try same pattern with turn on the third step to the LEFT. When both turns are mastered – practice with syncopated rhythm: “&-1-2-3″ without hopping, without ”back stepping” or “back rocking” and without ”panic”!
06/08/11 WEEK TWO: Review “practice” techniques & integrate pattern into “muscle memory.”
Ladies Inside/Left UAT: Leaders (while dancing right-turning basic): lead lady into inside/left UAT by raising left arm to right side as if “blocking the sun” with your forearm (which will be parallel to the floor – the “top” half of a ”window”); for ease, “trace” lightly around ladies waist to ensure smooth control of the partnership. Followers: Same foot pattern as Basic “Change of Place” except the turn is left (instead of right). Reminder to keep elbow down when doing turn, creating the “bottom half” of a “window” or holding a tray slightly above your head. Turn is on count “2.”
Leader’s Inside/Left UAT: Leaders: Same foot pattern as Basic “Change of Place” except the turn is left (instead of right). To lead “self” bring R arm up and across to your left side, keeping elbow down when doing turn, creating the “bottom half” of a “window” or holding a tray slightly above your head. Turn is on count “2.” Followers: (while dancing right-turning basic): Leader will raise your left arm to right side as if “blocking the sun” with your forearm (which will be parallel to the floor – the “top” half of a ”window”); for ease, “trace” lightly around man’s waist.
06/15/11 WEEK THREE: Review “practice” techniques & integrate pattern into “muscle memory.”
Introduced CrossBody Lead (New Basic). Leaders: weight on R ft, L leg firmly pointed to the side (hold cts “&-1″) – L ft fwd/slightly across on ct 2 commencing turn to left ending 180 degrees in opposite direction (later you can turn it more or less – leader’s choice) – Side R (ct 3) and repeat (holding on cts “&-1″). Followers: Left turning “Change of Place.”
06/22/11 WEEK FOUR: Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Partnership danced CBL learned week before.
HUSTLE LEVEL I-A (Club Dance): Rhythm: Syncopation: &-1-2-3 where there ”&” beat indicates a half-beat and their is one (1) beat of music for the “Q”: half (“&”)-1-2–3
07/13/11 WEEK ONE: CrossBody Lead: Leaders: weight on R ft, L leg firmly pointed to the side (hold cts “&-1″) – L ft fwd/slightly across on ct 2 commencing turn to left ending 180 degrees in opposite direction (later you can turn it more or less – leader’s choice) – Side R (ct 3) and repeat (holding on cts “&-1″). Followers: Left turning “Change of Place.”
Linked CBL to previously learned step patterns.
07/20/11 WEEK TWO: Reviewed Previous Steps. Learned general lead for “Cuddle” – More information to come next week. PLEASE practice CBL, Change of Place, Alternating UAT, Throwout & Bringing partner back in. Understand the rhythm and eliminate the “Back-Rock” (it’s used in East Coast Swing, not Smooth Style Hustle). Followers: Please read notes to Leaders above.
07/27/11 WEEK THREE: Cuddle: Leaders: CBL to Throw-out 1 HSH (Hand-Shake-Hold); Bring Follower to R side while remaining in “side-point” position; Lead lady to L side maintain “side-point;” alternate from R to L as desired. For simple ending, with lady on R side using R hand connection draw the hand toward her R shoulder while releasing her L hand and she will travel out back onto her slot – Leader squares up with partner.
08/03/11 WEEK FOUR: Continued to work on Cuddle.
08/10/11 WEEK FIVE: Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Cuddle with Walks: Leaders – while partner is on your left side you can walk forward remaining in shadow (cuddle) position and turn leftward 180 degrees by dancing the basic rhythm with the lady as you close L to R on ct. “and” – fwd R ft on ct. 1 – fwd L ft turning left on ct. 2 – back (now 180 degrees) on R ft on ct. 3. Lady will be on your right side. Repeat as desired “walking” with partner in shadow position whenever she’s on your left side. See “Cuddle” instruction above for simple exit to Throwout. Followers: when you are on the left side of the leader he may opt to have you walk forward (turning leftward) instead of from his side to side; continue your basic Hustle footwork dancing Close-Fwd-Fwd (turn)-Back.
Julie Claire Holmes Dance Scholarship Event for Maui’s Youth (THIS SATURDAY @ KCC 6 – 10 pm). Potluck – Dancing (Live & DJ music) – Silent Auction – Performances! See you there!
FOXTROT LEVEL II BEGINNER (Questions? Email ritaoc@hawaii.rr.com or 344-4452) (first-time private or semi-private students get 10% OFF)
06/01/11 WEEK ONE: Grapevine (beginning with right turning basic – see Beginner Foxtrot Level I below) Leaders: DW dancing Right Turning Basic – end ADC; S-Q-Q-Q-Q-Q-Q-S-Q-Q Back (S); All Q: Back-Side (turning to face DW)-Fwd outside partner-Side (turning to face ADC)-Back outside partner-Side (turning to face DW; Fwd outside partner (S) ending W-Side-Close (Q-Q) end W in closed position. Followers: Natural Opposite
06/08/11 WEEK TWO: Left Twist Turn: Leaders: (W) Promenade L; Promenade R putting weight only to the heel of the R ft (keeping partial weight on the “ball” of the L ft previously danced; rotate to the L (during the next 2 cts: Q-Q; or you can count it as a “S” – 2 cts either way) ending with frame in closed position. Left Rock Turn is a common pattern to do afterwards. Followers: (C) Promenade R; Promenade L; Fwd R with ball of foot walking around leader (to your L); fwd L with ball of foot continuing to walk around leader – ending with a L pivot turn. Left Rock Turn is a common pattern to do afterwards.
06/15/11 WEEK THREE: Learned to walk properly, then review & refined patterns, movement, partnership & timing.
06/22/11 WEEK FOUR: Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Reviewed previously learned steps and improved technique!
NOTES BY FRIDAY 7/29/11 – Sorry for the delay! Working on the Julie Claire Holmes Dance Scholarship Event for Maui’s Youth (THIS SATURDAY @ KCC 6 – 10 pm). See you then!
BEGINNER FOXTROT LEVEL I (Smooth Dance with LOD flow): Standard Rhythm: S-S-Q-Q where there are two (2) beats of music for the “S” and one (1) beat of music for the “Q”: 1/2 – 3/4 – 5 – 6
04/13/11 WEEK ONE: Basic: Leaders starting LOD w/L ft: Fwd – Fwd – Side – Close Followers: Natural Opposite
Left Rock Turn: Leaders starting LOD w/L ft: Fwd – Back – Side – Close w/up to a ¼ left turn Followers: Natural Opposite
Promenade: Leaders starting W w/L ft: Fwd Promenade Position – Fwd Promenade Position – Side – Close Followers: Natural Opposite
04/20/11 WEEK TWO: Promenade with UAT: Leaders dance footwork to Promenade (above) adding the raising of their L hand connection while simultaneously releasing the lady’s back to indicate her UAT. Followers: Leader will indicate an UAT by raising your R hand connection so that you can do a slow turn during counts 1-4 (S-S; R ft-L ft) end facing your partner so that you can dance the ending side step in parallel.
04/27/11 WEEK THREE: Promenade “Dip:” Leaders dance steps 1 and 2 of Promenade where on step # 2 (ct 3 thru 4) the soften their knees to lower the dance partnership gradually, then while remaining in promenade position replace the weight to the L ft (behind) and close R ft to L while still remaining in promende position. End with a full (standard) Promenade. Followers: Natural Opposite
Right Turning Basic: (start DW) Dance the fwd Basic step commencing to lead the lady into a R 1/4 turn through your frame by the end of step 2 (ct 4) as you continue to turn R; complete the pattern with a side step & close (L, R respectively) ending ADC. Followers: Natural Opposite.
Left Back Turning Basic: (start ADC, usually following Right Turning Basic) Dance the Basic step backwards with L ft back; R ft back commencing to lead the lady into a L 1/4 turn through your frame by the end of step 2 (ct 4) as you turn L; complete the pattern with a side step and close (L, R respectively) ending DW. Followers: Natural Opposite.
05/04/11 WEEK FOUR: Reviewed previous week’s dance steps adding techinque, flow and “emotion!”
05/11/11 WEEK FIVE of the Series: Box (start LOD; new rhythm: S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q) Leaders: Fwd – Side – Close (change weight); Back (R ft) - Side – Close (change weight). Followers: Natural Opposite.
Progressive Twinkle (start LOD; End LOD) Box Rhythm; Leaders: Fwd (turning 1/8 leftward) – Side – Close (slightly smaller side step to allow lady to end on your R side “outside partner”); DC Fwd R ft (turning 1/4 rightward) DO NOT step “inside” lady’s space…step to the right side of her- Side – Close (slightly smaller side step; lady will be on L side “outside partner”) end DW; Fwd (turning 1/4 leftward) DO NOT step “inside” lady’s space…step to the left side of her- Side Close end DC; repeat – Leader’s choice; Simple Ending: while facing DC, Fwd R ft (turn ONLY 1/8 rightward to face LOD) – Side – Close (equal size step to match partner and line up in closed position again). Followers: Back (man will lead 1/8 turn) – side – close (ending “outside partner” to his R); Back (main will lead 1/4 turn) – side – close (ending “outside partner” to his L); leader will repeat as desired. Simple Ending: man will square up with you LOD after you go back on your R to side-close. Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Terms & Abbreviations LINK will help with alignment notes.
LEVEL 2 CHA-CHA (Questions? Email ritaoc@hawaii.rr.com or 344-4452) (first-time private or semi-private students get 10% OFF)
04/13/11 WEEK ONE: Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS! Fifth to CrossOver (Xover) w/UAT: Leaders Side-Back-Replace-Side-Together-Side while leading lady to closed promenade position slowly rotating 1/4 to Leaders L -Back-Replace (returning to face your partner)-Side-Together-Side while slowly rotating 180 degrees to R in preparation for Back Break (5th position)-Back -Replace…Leader repeats as often as desired on either side…then redirects the rotation into a Xover during the “cha-cha-cha” (facing their partner) section by not changing the hand hold and rotating to the “outside” of the partnership into a Xover; to end the step the Leader stops rotating and remains square and parallel to his partner and leads UAT (“Stop Sign” signal without pushing or “stirring” partner during the UAT) as he dances back-replace (waiting for the follower to finish a timely UAT), continuing with side-together-side to R. Proper connection between partners is paramount! Followers: Side-Fwd-Replace-Side-Together-Side while being lead into closed promenade position slowly rotating 1/4 to R -Back-Replace (returning to face your partner)-Side-Together-Side while slowly rotating 180 degrees to L in preparation for Back Break (5th position)-Back -Replace…Leader will repeat as often as desired on either side; follower should not assume what is the direction of the break step, but wait until a signal is given…then reacts appropriately when the leader guides her into a Xover during the “cha-cha-cha” (facing their partner) section; to end the step the Leader stops rotating and remains square and parallel to his partner and leads UAT (“Stop Sign” signal without pushing or “stirring” partner during the UAT) as lady dances UAT: Fwd/Turn-replace/Turn (dancing a timely UAT “2 o’clock”), continuing with side-together-side to L.
04/20/11 WEEK TWO: CrossBody Lead (CBL): Leaders Side-Back-Replace-Side-Together-Side-Fwd (beginning lead for CBL in frame)-Replace commencing to turn leftward 90 degrees -Side-Together-Side-Back-Replace commencing to turn leftward 90 degrees/180 degrees from start position-Side-Together-Side-Fwd-Replace-Side-Together. Follower remains in Leaders R arm embrace throughout the patterns. Followers: Side-Fwd-Replace-Side-Together-Side-Back-Replace ever-so-slightly changing direction to right (as opposed to straight ahead) –Fwd-Fwd-Fwd (cha-cha-cha)-Fwd (pivot)-Replace (back)-Side-Together-Side-Back-Replace-Side-Together. Follower remains in Leaders R arm embrace throughout the patterns and does not “pass” the man during this step.
04/27/11 WEEK THREE: Shoulder Check: Leaders Open Break, then lead Follower to inside UAT (left turn) while you do an “in-place” cha-cha-cha turning to your R as you guide the lady into frame by first connecting with her forearm and softly sliding your hand along her upper arm to R should, then ending on her L shoulder as she is turning. Break Fwd (and across) in opposition of the follower’s movement on ct 2; replace L ft on ct 3 commencing to lead the lady out of the turn by lifting the connected arm as you dance a L turning cha-cha-cha in-place. The leader can chose to do as many of these “Shoulder Check” actions as desired. To end, the leader (after the Open Break) does a side cha-cha-cha and leads the follower to an UAT. Followers: Open Break, then partner will lead you to an inside (L) UAT – you will do a curving side basic ending in the man’s R arm (in frame) perpendicular to your partner; Back Bread on ct 3 (L ft); replace R ft on ct 3 as you are lead out of the turn; you will dance the second half of the step in reverse (side cha-cha-cha curving to the R to end facing partner). The leader can repeat this pattern as desired. End with UAT after a side cha-cha-cha.
05/04/11 WEEK FOUR: Reviewed previous week’s dance steps emphasizing techinque in body-movement and lead/follow.
05/11/11 WEEK FIVE: Shoulder Catch: Leaders: Open Break to UAT; As lady begins UAT gently “catch” (with hand placed over her shoulder so that your palm “catches” her shoulder before she completes the turn) lady’s shoulder on ct 2 (leader: back break on R ft); immediately lead an inside (L) turn to your R as you dance a Side Basic (Cha-Cha-Cha) while she turns; continue with an Open Break to a Side Basic leading Solo Turns (each person does a free-turn after the appropriate lead) in a Xover-fashion, but adding a turn to end facing partner in open position; easiest to extend hand and suggest through visual lead returning to basic. Followers: Open Break to UAT commencing your UAT until the man gently prevents you from doing so on ct 2 (L ft); he will immediately lead an inside turn as you replace your R ft and begin L/Inside turn during the Side Basic (Cha-Cha-Cha) making sure to close feet on cts “4-and” to sync with the leader’s standard Side Basic; continue with Open Break to Solo Turns as lead by leader.
Don’t forget to read Rita’s “DanceOGraphy & Philosophy” link for INSIDER’S TIPS!
BEGINNER CHA-CHA (Questions? Email ritaoc@hawaii.rr.com or 344-4452) (first-time private or semi-private students get 10% OFF)
(starting with side step on ct 1): 1 2 3 4-&-5 (syncopated half-counts) 6 7 8-&-1 (1-2-3-cha-cha-cha-6-7-cha-cha-cha)
03/02/11 WEEK ONE: Side Basic: Leaders Side-Back-Replace-Side-Together-Side-Fwd-Replace-Side-Together-Side Followers: Natural Opposite
In-Place Basic: Leaders Side-back-Replace-Close R to L-Replace-Fwd-back-Replace-Close L to R-Replace Followers: Natural Opposite.
Fwd-Back Basic: Leaders Side-back-Replace-Fwd-Fwd-Fwd-Fwd-Replace-Back-Back-Back-Back-Replace Followers: Natural Opposite
03/09/11 WEEK TWO: Outside Partner (Parallel Partner): Leaders Side-Back-Replace-Side-Together-Side while slowly rotating 1/8 to Leaders R setting up outside partner position-Fwd-Replace-Side-Together-Side while slowlyroating 1/4 to L setting up frame for outside partner-Fwd -Replace…Leader repeats as often as desired on either side; to end the step the Leader stops rotating and remains square and parallel to his partner and leads either side of a basic fwd or back break (depending on which half of the step). Followers: Natural Opposite
CrossOver (“XOver” also known as a “New Yorker”) to UnderArm Turn (UAT): Leaders Side-Back-Replace-Side-Together-Side while leading lady to open 1HH connection slowly rotating 1/4 to Leaders R -Fwd-Replace (returning to face your partner)-Side-Together-Side while slowly rotating 180 degrees to L switching hands in preparation for Xover-Fwd -Replace…Leader repeats as often as desired on either side; to end the step the Leader stops rotating and remains square and parallel to his partner and leads UAT (“Stop Sign” signal without pushing or “stirring” partner during the UAT) as he dances back-replace (waiting for the follower to finish a timely UAT), continuing with side-together-side to R. Followers: Side-Fwd-Replace-Side-Together-Side ending in open 1HH connection slowly rotating 1/4 to L -Fwd-Replace (returning to face your partner)-Side-Together-Side while slowlyroating 180 degrees to R switching hands in preparation for Xover-Fwd -Replace…Leader repeats as often as desired on either side; to end the step the Leader stops rotating and remains square and parallel to his partner and leads UAT (“Stop Sign”) as lady dances UAT: Fwd/Turn-replace/Turn (dancing a timely UAT “2 o’clock”), continuing with side-together-side to L.
03/16/11 WEEK THREE: Fifth Position to UAT: Leaders Side-Back-Replace-Side-Together-Side while leading lady to closed promenade position slowly rotating 1/4 to Leaders L -Back-Replace (returning to face your partner)-Side-Together-Side while slowly rotating 180 degrees to R in preparation for Back Break (5th position)-Back -Replace…Leader repeats as often as desired on either side; to end the step the Leader stops rotating and remains square and parallel to his partner and gives a visual lead for UAT (“Stop Sign” signal without pushing or “stirring” partner during the UAT) as he dances back-replace (waiting for the follower to finish a timely UAT), continuing with side-together-side to R. Followers: Side-Fwd-Replace-Side-Together-Side ending in closed promenade position slowly rotating 1/4 to R -Back-Replace (returning to face your partner)-Side-Together-Side while slowly rotating 180 degrees to L for 5th Position-Fwd -Replace…Leader repeats as often as desired on either side; to end the step the Leader stops rotating and remains square and parallel to his partner and gives a visual lead for UAT (“Stop Sign”) as lady dances UAT: Fwd/Turn-replace/Turn (dancing a timely UAT “2 o’clock”), continuing with side-together-side to L.
03/23/11 WEEK FOUR: Cuddle: Leaders Side-Back-Replace-Side-Together-Side while lowering connected hand down then switching hands (Hand Shake Hold “HSH”) leading lady to an Open Break (partners are parallel, but apart) during the “Cha-Cha-Cha”- Leaders L Back-Replace (then staying inplace for the Cha-Cha-Cha)-leading the lady to leader’s R side- R foot will Back Break -Replace; staying inplace for Cha-Cha-Cha leads lady to L side of leader-L foot back break-Replace and repeat to the R side…Leader repeats as often as desired on either side; to end the step the Leader Back Breaks on R ft and leads lady on the “Replace” step to turn R and separate while the Leader dances a side Cha-Cha-Cha to the R ending in open parallel position to the lady switching hands back to standard L hand connection, then lead the lady to do a UAT (“Stop Sign” signal without pushing or “stirring” partner during the UAT) as he dances back-replace (waiting for the follower to finish a timely UAT), continuing with side-together-side to R. Followers: Side-Fwd-Replace-Side-Together-Side while leaders switch hands (Hand Shake Hold “HSH”) leading lady to an Open Break (partners are parallel, but apart) during the “Cha-Cha-Cha” (followers move away from leader; leader does not move back during the Cha-Cha-Cha; R Back-Replace (then turning L for the Cha-Cha-Cha) do a fwd L turning basic to leader’s R side- L foot will Back Break -Replace; dance a L side Cha-Cha-Cha across the leaders position - R foot back break-Replace and repeat to the R side…Leader repeats as often as desired on either side; to end the Leader guides the lady after the back-break (on her L ft - while she’s on the right side) to turn R and separate while dancing a side Cha-Cha-Cha to the L ending in open parallel position to the leader; then the leader guides you to a UAT (“Stop Sign”) as lady dances UAT: Fwd/Turn-replace/Turn (dancing a timely UAT “2 o’clock”), continuing with side-together-side to L.
BEGINNER AMERICAN TANGO (Questions? Email ritaoc@hawaii.rr.com or 344-4452) (first-time private or semi-private students get 10% OFF)
01/05/11 REGISTRATION NIGHT: Basic – S-S-Q-Q-S timing. Leaders (starting LOD, L ft): Fwd-Fwd-Fwd-Side-”DRAW” (moving the L leg s-l-o-w-l-y to the R leg). Followers: Natural Opposite starting with your R ft back.
01/12/11 – WEEK ONE: Corte (curious? Here are 2 definitions: being related to Courtesy. So as a matter of courteous good manners you simply “bow”, step back and show courtesy; to cut, going back and forward like a knife or saw). S-S-Q-Q-S timing. Leaders (LOD): L ft Back-R ft Replace- L ft Fwd- R ft Side – Slowly “draw” L leg toward R leg (not closing feet). Followers: R ft Fwd (heel lead) – L ft Replace – R ft Back – L ft Side – Slow “draw” of R leg toward L leg (not closing feet).
Turning Basic – same footwork for leader and follower as basic, but done in a L circular fashion.
01/19/11 – WEEK TWO: Left Promenade. S-S-Q-Q-S timing; preceded by Turning Basic end facing W. Leaders: Fwd in Promenade position/left shoulder leading down LOD on a diagonal – Fwd (R ft, same frame position)/on count 4 rotating spine/frame to L to face LOD – fwd (LOD) – Side – “DRAW” Followers: Fwd in Promenade position/right shoulder leading down LOD on a diagonal – Fwd (L ft, same frame position)/on ct 4 leader will rotate the frame as you are on your L ft: pivot and remain on your L ft – Back- Side – “DRAW.”
01/26/11 – WEEK THREE: Refined Left Promenade.
02/02/11 – WEEK FOUR: Tango Rocks S-S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S timing; Leaders starting LOD Fwd-Fwd; (Rocks): Fwd (L)-Rock back (R) keeping heel up-Replace Fwd (L); Fwd (R)-Rock back (L) keeping heel up- Replace Fwd (R); Fwd (L)-Side-Draw (standard basic ending). Followers: Natural opposite.
(Tango) Open Fan to UnderArm Turn (UAT) S-S-Q-Q-S; S-S-Q-Q-S timing; Leaders starting W Fwd Promenade-Fwd Promenade-Replace (back) Promenade- Side (facing W with Follower to your Left in 1 HH); With weight on R ft (as you just ended) turn body leftward toward woman as you raise your hand up to indicate an UAT dancing a curving basic as the Follower goes under your arm and you end parallel ALOD; easily followed by another curving basic in standard dance hold to face LOD. Followers: Fwd Promenade-Fwd Promenade with L pivot turn on L ft- Back on R ft- Side on L; leader will raise connected arm as you dance a forward curving basic starting with your R ft ending facing man as you take a L side draw.
02/16/11 – WEEK FIVE: Reviewed all previous week’s steps. Added Right Promenade (S-S-Q-Q-S) timing; Leaders starting W fwd Promenade – fwd Promenade on Follower’s “line” with R pivot to face lady; remaining on “Follower’s line” throughout the rest of the pattern, step back L ft leading lady to do a R pivot ending in closed position; small R side step, “draw” L ft to R (as in basic step) ending DC. Followers Promenade – Fwd promenade – Fwd R ft with pivot turn staying in closed position to leader – side L – draw R ft to L (as in basic step) ending ADC.
02/23/11 - NO CLASSES
INERMEDIATE TANGO
03/02/11 – WEEK ONE New Series: Reviewed & refined previously taught steps.
03/09/11 – WEEK TWO: Reverse Turn Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S (8 cts); Leaders starting DC – Fwd (turning leftward)-Side-Back (Outisde Partner – like Promenade position – Contra Body Movement) ALOD – Back (turning leftward)-Side (turning leftward) end W-Close R to L with weight change. Followers: Natural Opposite (Back-Side-Fwd-Fwd-Side-Close).
03/16/11 – WEEK THREE: Reviewed, Refined, Practiced!
03/23/11 – WEEK FOUR: Open Fan (first 8 cts of Open Fan to UnderArm Turn (UAT) – now in “side-by-side” position facing W, Leader steps fwd L ft and “fans” (swivels) L to face partner (still remaining on L ft)-Promenade step L on R ft rotating chest to L leading lady to a L pivot (only a 1HH connection) – fwd L – side R – draw L ft to R ft (end facing C). Followers: now in “side-by-side” position facing W, step fwd R ft and “fans” (swivels) R to face partner (still remaining on R ft)-Promenade step R on L ft rotating to a L pivot (only a 1HH connection) - back R – side L – draw R ft to L ft (end facing AC)
INERMEDIATE SALSA (first-time private or semi-private students get 10% OFF)
01/12/11 – WEEK ONE: (for Beginner steps taught previously, please scroll down to: October-December Classes, Week One: 10/13/10) If you’d like to get a jump on what’s happening in Intermediate Salsa or to catch up, please contact Rita for a private or semi-private lesson (first-time private or semi-private students get 10% OFF)
CrossBody Lead (CBL), please scroll down to 12/15/10 for instructions.
Hamerlock to Inside Turn. Leaders: Open Break allowing lady to slide her L arm down your R arm to end in a 2HH. Leading with just L arm (keeping R arm relaxed), lead UAT; when lady completes her turn she will be in a “hammerlock” with her L arm behind her (L hand on her R side) and still connected to your L hand also. Leaders, do a forward break (like a basic), then lead her to an inside/left 1.5 turn while you stay on-spot changing your direction to the R until you are 180 degrees from where you started (remember to release your R hand from her “back” hand while she is dancing her 1.5 turns; easiest ending: another open break (1HH) to simple UAT. Followers: Keeping your L arm connection to the man’s R arm, he will lead an open break – you will slide your L arm down his R arm to arrive in a 2HH; Leader will indicate an UAT (keep both hands connected – do not “hold onto” the leader’s hand). Back break (as Leaders moves with you in his forward break), then Leader will invite you to do an inside UAT to your L – this 1.5 turn travels to the other side of the partnership; ends with standard open break UAT.
01/19/11 – WEEK TWO: Walkaround. Leaders: Open Break UAT with hand change (HSH) – Open Break UAT offering second hand as lady turns to end in 2HH L over R at the end of her turn as Leader guides his left hand to the rigiht side of his head inviting the Follower to “walk around” his center while he keeps rhythm in-place, end facing lady with R hand indicating UAT for next 3 cts – back break while lady does UAT (releasing 2nd hand – ending with HSH), then switching hand back to regular hold. Followers: Open Break UAT (man will change his hand) – Open Break UAT connecting with man’s L hand to end in a 2HH, but NOT closing your feet since he will lead you (through your R hand) to continue to walk forward “around him” for the the 5-6-7/8 ending with the follower facing the man as he indicates UAT as next step – UAT (and man will switch hands back to standard hold). For those in the Basic Technique Class, please see information below from the October-December Classes and previous weeks for this dance course – email me any questions!
01/26/11 – WEEK THREE: Introduced the beginning of….Double Head Loop with Arm Catch to Shoulder Check. Leaders: Open Break UAT with hand change (HSH) – Open Break UAT offering second hand as lady turns to end in 2HH L over R at the end of her turn as Leader keeps hands above the partners’ eye level. Leader does CBL footwork bringing R2RHH over the center of the lady’s head while simultaneously bringing L2LHH over the center of his own head, releasing the 2HH when the hands are at the crown of each partner’s head; Leader lowers his R arm to “hook” (but not confine or restrict) the partner’s L arm temporarily and offering his R hand (which is “hooked”) to the partner; on the second half of the measure (once the lady has taken the Leader’s R hand with her R hand) lead the lady to an inside UAT ending in shadow position with the Lady in front to the Leader’s right (but not side-by-side). Followers: Open Break UAT (man will change his hand) – Open Break UAT connecting with man’s L hand to end in a 2HH; Follower dances steps 1-3 of CBL (allowing the Leader to release her R hand once overhead) and accepting the Leader’s offer of his R hand in front of you; on the second half of the measure dance a traveling inside UAT ending in shadow position – Follower will be in front (with her back to) the Leader’s right (but not side-by-side). For those in the Basic Technique Class, please see information below from the October-December Classes and previous weeks for this dance course – email me any questions!
02/02/11 – WEEK FOUR: Continuation of…Shoulder Check; See last week’s notes through the shoulder check. Leaders: Side Break (L)-Replace-Close leading lady to an UAT by bringing your R hand to the L side of your partnership; back break R-L-Close R ft as follower does UAT (switch hands at the end). Followers: R ft fwd break-Replace-Side with a swivel turn to face the man as he preps you for an UAT (ending parallel to the leader); basic UAT.
02/09/11 – VALENTINE’S DANCE PARTY 
02/16/11 – WEEK FIVE: Walkaround to Head Loops. Leaders: Open Break UAT with hand change (HSH) – Open Break UAT offering second hand as lady turns to end in 2HH L over R at the end of her turn as Leader guides his left hand to the rigiht side of his head inviting the Follower to “walk around” his center while he keeps rhythm in-place, ending front-to-back; side break R while bringing R hand to L shoulder and releasing hold throughout Q-Q-S; repeat to other side side break L while bringing L hand to R shoulder and releasing hold throughout Q-Q-S leaving R hand (palm up) available for ladies to put their R hand in Leader’s R hand; leaders (while rotating R) back break R ft leading lady forward to do an inside (L) traveling turn. End in open position. Followers: Open Break UAT (man will change his hand) – Open Break UAT connecting with man’s L hand to end in a 2HH, but NOT closing your feet since he will lead you (through your R hand) to continue to walk forward “around him” for the the 5-6-7/8 ending with the follower facing front to man’s back behind him; side break L while bringing R hand down to R side and catching Leader’s R hand throughout Q-Q-S; repeat to other side side break R throughout Q-Q-S; L forward to do an inside (L) traveling turn. End in open position.
03/02/11 – Continuation WEEK SIX: Review previously learned steps.
03/09/11 – WEEK SEVEN: Combine Walkaround and Shoulder Check; Review Walkaround to Head Loops.
03/16/11 – WEEK EIGHT: Passing CBL/Passing Twinkles/”360″ – Leaders: CBL releasing hand connection; back break ending fwd in L turning arc as you lead lady into your L arm ending perpendicular; fwd-fwd/side-close/side leading lady into your R arm ending perpendicular; can be done multiple times and in leader’s choice of direction; to end pattern (as Leader steps back on R break) visual lead for ladies inside UAT – following partner. Followers: CBL 1st measure; fwd-side/fwd-side/close ending in man’s L arm and perpendicular partnership alignment; back break to fwd; repeat fwd-side/fwd-side/close; to end the pattern, leader gives visual lead for inside UAT (travelling).
03/23/11 – WEEK NINE: Review, Refined, Practice!
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11/17/10
Beginner Salsa (see Week One: 10/13/10 below) Fwd/Back Basic; Side Breaks; Alternating Side Breaks; Open Break UAT
Intermediate WALTZ:
Left Turning Box – Leaders (starting LOD): Fwd (then start leading turn to the left)-Side-Close (full quarter turn – now facing Center); Back (then start leading turn to the left)-Side-Close (full quarter turn – now facing ALOD); Fwd (then start leading turn to the left)-Side-Close (full quarter turn – now facing Wall); Back (then start leading turn to the left)-Side-Close (full quarter turn – now facing LOD) Followers (starting ALOD): Natural Opposite.
Simple Twinkle – Leaders (starting W [1/4 turn to R of LOD]) – Fwd (then start leading lady into promenade position “V”)-Back/Side-Close; Fwd-(then start leading lady into closed position)-Side-Close
12/01/10
Beginner Salsa – Ladies “Double” Turn (inside/left) – Leaders: preceeded by ladies UAT (right) remaining in open position, lower connected hand to repeat an Open Break, but on count 3 man raises L arm to R side to lead lady to inside turn as he steps L ft back-replace-close with a quarter turn to the L; keeping arm raised to allow lady to continue turning, leader steps R ft back-replace-close with a quarter turn to the L, now ending 180 degrees from his starting position; repeat another open break to ladies’ R UAT. Followers – Follow man’s lead to Open Break UAT; another Open Break and on ct 3 man will lead you to begin a left/inside traveling turn that will pass him on his R side (back-replace-fwd beginning to turn leftward); continue turning leftward while traveling foward on cts 5 & 6 and step back on ct 7 (size apprpriate for relation of leader and follower’s partnership; Man will lead another Open Break UAT (R UAT) immediately following
Intermediate WALTZ:
Hand-to-Hand – Leaders: 1/2 box beginning to lead ladies’ UAT – as lady is clearing the raised hand definitively and with slight pressure, lower your connected arm to had her to stop her turn midway, ending slightly in front of you and to the far left side as you complete the second 1/2 of the box ending LOD; L ft Fwd commencing L turn to face partner-R side-L close to R (facing C – follower); R ft Fwd commencing R (under)turn to face “long” (DW) – be careful not to be back-to-back; repeat this sequence as desired; to end: on a L ft Fwd portion, commencing L turn to face partner over-rotate the “turn” to face ALOD and ending in open promenade position; complete with last 3 steps of a simple twinkle (R ft Fwd ALOD in PP) – R side – L close ending C (you may or may not be in embrace, but most likely not). Left Turning Box is a typical step to follow with enough turn to end LOD or W depending on your next step choice! Followers: 1/2 box beginning to ladies’ UAT (through man’s clear lead, you will be) ending your turn midway, ending slightly in front of the leader and to the far left side as you complete the first 1/2 of your turn ending LOD; R ft Fwd commencing R turn to face partner-L side-R close to L (facing W – leader); L ft Fwd commencing L (under)turn to face “long” (DC) – be careful not to be back-to-back; Leader will repeat this sequence as desired; ending: on a R ft Fwd portion, leader will commence R turn to face him, but over-rotate the “turn” to face ALOD and ending in open promenade position; complete with last 3 steps of a simple twinkle (L ft Fwd ALOD in PP) – L side - R close ending W (you may or may not be in embrace, but most likely not). Follow the leader’s next step choice!
12/08/10
Beginner Salsa - Man’s Relay Turn (outside/right) – Leaders: preceeded by ladies UAT (right) remaining in open position, lower connected hand to repeat an Open Break, but on count 1 man steps L ft forward to commence his turn (2 o’clock) while “relay-ing” the lady’s hand from his left to right hand- R replace turning to face partner as he begins to raise his R arm to signal an UAT for the lady -close L ft to R; keeping arm raised to allow lady to do her UAT, leader steps R ft back-replace-close. Followers – Follow man’s lead to Open Break Ladies UAT (steps 1 – 6, cts 1 -8); begin another open break (R ft back-replace-close) as man does his turn (“relay-ing” your right hand to his right hand, then raising it to lead you into a UAT); continue to UAT (R UAT) on cts. 5-6-7/8.
Intermediate WALTZ: Continued refining Hand-to-Hand … also …
Began technique for 2HH Ladies Develope (NO STEP INSTRUCTED at this point) – Leaders: L ft fwd w/100% weight change, while standing even taller through the chest and leaving R ft back and behind (straight leg but with no weight – just “tone”); upper arms will be lowered to your side with 2HH at ladies’ hip height – hold cts 1 -3; 1/2 box back and turning leftward while leading lady to a (standard hand hold) inside UAT as leader’s feet go back R-side L (facing DC)-close R to L ending with 1HH and Open. Followers: Back R ft embellishing with develope to the leftside of the leader (the space “in-between” the partners) for cts 1-3; as man leads you to an inside/L turn step L fwd turning leftward- R side turning leftward- L fwd turning leftward to end on L ft facing partner in 1HH open position.
12/15/10
Beginner Salsa - CrossBody Lead (CBL) - Leaders: (entire step in closed position) – L fwd-R replace (begin turning 1/8 to left)-close L to R ft (completing 1/4 turn to left); small R back (continuing turning 1/8 to left)-L replace (complete the 1/4 turn to now face 180 degrees from your start position)-close R ft to L changing weight. Followers – R back-L replace-R forward (on a slight diagonal to the right making sure to stay to the man’s right side…do not take any big steps past him); L fwd pivoting to the left to face man while on the L ft – R back- close L to R ft.
Intermediate WALTZ: 2HH Progressive Twinkle with Ladies Develope (Technique for both the leader and follower worked on last week) Ending with Inside Turn - Leaders (starting LOD): Begin with standard closed hold through the first 6 cts (2 M) of the Progressive Twinkle (end DW…follow with L turning box or other step to desired outcome). At the beginning of the 3 M, leader compresses his L hand toward partner indicating for her to move away while he releases her back leaving his R hand out to the side (in front of him) so the follower can complete the hand-to-hand connection); leader continues dancing 2 or more measures of the Progressive Twinkle (as previously taught) in 2HH until he has his L ft available. L ft fwd w/100% weight change, while standing even taller through the chest and leaving R ft back and behind (straight leg but with no weight – just “tone”); upper arms will be lowered to your side with 2HH at ladies’ hip height – hold cts 1 -3; 1/2 box back and turning leftward while leading lady to a (standard hand hold) inside UAT as leader’s feet go back R-side L (facing DC)-close R to L ending with 1HH and Open partnership position facing DW. Can end with Left Turning Box or step of Leader’s Choice. Followers: Dance the first 6 cts (2 M) of the Progressive Twinkle; beginning on 3M, leader will compress his L hand indicating for you to slowly move away as you slide your L arm down his R arm until you are in a 2HH position. He will continue to dance the Progressive Twinkle (now in 2 HH). As the man slows down the first step of the next measure and lowers his arms, followers dance R back embellishing with develope to the leftside of the leader (the space “in-between” the partners) for cts 1-3; as man leads you to an inside/L turn step L fwd turning leftward- R side turning leftward- L fwd turning leftward to end on L ft facing partner in 1HH open position. Leader may dance a Left turning Box or a step of his choice.
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Week FIVE: 11/10/10
Beginner WALTZ: Reviewed Technique…treat yourself to a private lesson (or semi-private lesson – only $20 pp/4 people) and ACCELERATE your LEARNING CURVE!
(Continued) Progressive Twinkle - See previous week’s notes.
Beginner SALSA TECHNIQUE: Reviewed previous steps with emphasis on Open Break UAT.
Intermediate EAST COAST SWING:
Double Head Loop (or “Head Comb”) – Leaders: Back Rock…from 2-HH; first triple-step in-place, while turning yourself L (thereby turning the lady L, too), gently lift arms over your head and hers as you get closer in partnership, side-by-side facing opposite walls and “loop” overhead letting go of the hands once you’ve reached the top of the back of the head (do not lock/harness your hand hold behind the head/neck); second triple slowing slide hand down arm until you have HSH connection as you both slowly drift away from each other to an open position. Facing each other do HSH Tuck Turn (instructions below). Followers: Back Rock with 2-HH; on the first triple, the leader will turn L (as will you) as he raises both hands over-head (keep arms relaxed so that you both can comfortably do so) placing your hand over his head and one over your own (the leader will initiate this move, just remain relaxed); on the second triple, you will both slowly “drift” away to open 1 hand-connection in HSH. Usually followed by a HSH Tuck Turn (instructions below).
Hand-Shake Hold (HSH) Solo Tuck Turn: Leaders: Dance back-rock with an in-place basic for both triples; lead: on first triple bring R hand toward the R (to the R side of your space) - lady will compress into that connection; in-between the two triples, release the lady for a free spin while you dance in-place, leaving your L hand available for her. Followers: Dance back-rock; slightly fwd moving triple to compress hand connection with the man through your palm while slight “winding up” to your left for the first triple; leader will release the compression by reversing your turn to the right as you free-spin.
Week FOUR: 11/03/10
Beginner WALTZ: Reviewed “Heel-Toe, Toe, Toe-Heel” fwd footwork!
(Introduced) Progressive Twinkle - Leaders: Fwd L (beginning to turn 1/8 to L), Side R, Close L to R with Lady ”outside partner” on right side (end DC); Fwd R beginning to turn 1/4 to R, Side L, Close R to L with Lady ”outside partner” on leader’s left side (end DW); Fwd L beginning to turn 1/4 to L, Side R, Close L to R with Lady “outside partner” on leader’s right side (end DC) – repeat 2nd & 3rd measure as desired ending facing DC…to complete the step: Fwd R beginning to turn 1/8 to R (to face LOD), “square up” Side L, Close R to L in standard closed position. Followers: Back R (Leader will begin to turn partnership 1/8 to L), Side L, Close R to L (positioned ”outside partner” ending on the man’s right side (end ADC); Back L (leader will turn 1/4 to R), Side R, Close L to R (positioned ”outside partner” ending on the man’s left side (end ADW); leader’s choice to repeat 2nd & 3rd measure as desired ending facing ADC…to complete the step: Back L as the man underturns to face LOD (Followers: ALOD) to “square up” Side R, Close L to R in standard closed position.
Beginner SALSA TECHNIQUE: Reviewed previous steps with emphasis on Open Break UAT.
Intermediate EAST COAST SWING:
Ladies Extended L UAT: Leaders: From open position: lead lady into “inside”/left UAT remembering to bring connected hand down smoothly ASAP and then chasse to the R side (in syncopated rhythm: 5&-6&-7&-8&) to ‘in-place” back rock. “Embellishment” – placing R hand on ladie’s R hip (but that hand does NOT lead her). Followers: first half of left UAT; the leader will clearly lower the arm while you compress and connect with him; he will lead you to take L side-chasses and when he stops traveling he will lead a back-rock.
Solo Tuck Turn: Leaders: Dance back-rock with an in-place basic for both triples; lead: on first triple bring L hand across your body toward R hip but keeping hand off of your hip – lady will compress into that connection; in-between the two triples, release the lady for a free spin while you dance in-place, leaving your L hand available for her. Followers: Dance back-rock; slightly fwd moving triple to compress hand connection with the man through your palm while slight “winding up” to your left for the first triple; leader will release the compression by reversing your turn to the right as you free-spin.
Week THREE: 10/27/10 – HALLOWEEN Dance Classes & Party! Boo!
Beginner WALTZ: Worked on timing and musicality: 3/4 timing throughout; 6 cts = one basic step pattern.
Ladies’ Develope (during Hesitation) - Leaders: Dance & lead a S-L-O-W Fwd Hesitation as previously learned being sure to make only 1 weight change for stability; dance & lead S-L-O-W Back Hesitation as previously learned. Note: As a Leader there is nothing you can do to make her add this embellishment…it’s “Ladies’ Choice”! Followers: Back Hesitation as previously learned with S-L-O-W weight change on ct 1 – making certain to embellish outside the man’s leg (leftward for you) bring L leg up in bent position so that the instep of the L ft connects with the inside curve of the side of R knee on ct 2 – extend L leg from below the knee to complete the Develope extension at the beginning of ct 3 and bring ft together by the end of ct 3; dance the second half of the Hesitation as previously learned.
Beginner SALSA TECHNIQUE: Important to S-L-O-W down/”pause” on ct. 4 & 8 to allow complete hip movement. 4/4 timing dancing 6 cts on beats 1, 2, 3 (no weight change on 4), 5, 6, 7 (no weight change on 8). Latin hip motion throughout. Feet in turn-out position (heels together).
Alternating Side Breaks – Leaders: Dance & lead Side Breaks as previously learned. WITHOUT disturbing the followers movement from side-to-side dance 2 consecutive side breaks on the right side (second half) of the step) – NO weight change on ct 8, in-between the 2 consecutive right side Side Breaks. This will put you in “Alternating” breaks; make sure you give enough “arm length” so as not to disturb the ladies’ step to the side (opposite yours). To end the step, Leader once again will dance 2 consecutive side breaks to the right side to get back in sync with his partner. Followers: Dance the Side Breaks as previously learned (there are NO changes for you and you cannot initiate the “fake”).
Week TWO: 10/20/10
Beginner WALTZ: 3/4 timing throughout; 6 cts = one basic step pattern; a smooth dance with traveling steps moving L.O.D. with Rise “& Fall” action and strong side sway action; Leaders begin with L ft, Followers with R ft. Fwd steps with heel lead on counts 1 and/or 4; Back steps with toe; side steps with toe/ball of foot. RISE & “Fall”/neutral technique for box: Heel-toe, toe, toe-heel on fwd actions; toe, toe, toe-heel on back actions.
Box with Ladies’ U.A.T. – Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft side ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3. R ft back ct 4 begin to raise L arm straight up (just enough for the lady to walk under), while simultaneously releasing her back with your right arm (the follower begins her turn on the next step, but it’s important that you lead her on the 4th step); L ft side ct 5; R ft closes to L ft ct 6; repeat box step pattern until lady comes back around into your arms (do not reach for her). Followers: Steps 1 – 3 of the box; L ft fwd as man slowly raises your right arm up (to indicate your next step); beginning with ct 5 dance fwd in a circular fashion, ct 6 – 9 fwd steps (follow Rise & Fall technique listed above); finish the step meeting up with the man on by ct. 12 (as he’s finishing the last half of the box).
Beginner SALSA TECHNIQUE: 4/4 timing dancing 6 cts on beats 1, 2, 3 (no weight change on 4), 5, 6, 7 (no weight change on 8). Latin hip motion throughout. Feet in turn-out position (heels together).
Right U.A.T. (step) – (usually preceded by a basic) Leaders: starting on ct 1 step back on your L ft as you release the lady’s back and step back on your L ft, replace ct 2, close L ft to R on ct 3 as you commence to raise your hand to indicate a UAT for the lady on the upcoming step (do NOT turn her, just raise the arm up); back break on R ft on ct 5, replace, close R ft to L as you bring ladies hand back to neutral position. Followers: (usually prceded by a basic): leader will lower hand as he releases your back as you step back on the R ft (ct 1), replace, close R ft to L (at the end of which he will raise his hand up to indicate that your next step will be a UAT; L ft fwd at “2 o’clock” step/half-turn; R ft replace/fwd approx. 1/4 turn/spin to face partner; L ft closes to R ft.
Intermediate EAST COAST SWING: Reviewed Whip (“Lindy Whip” / “Lindy Timing”) See “Week One” below for instructions.
Week One: 10/13/10
Beginner WALTZ: 3/4 timing throughout; 6 cts = one basic step pattern; a smooth dance with traveling steps moving L.O.D. with Rise “& Fall” action and strong side sway action; Leaders begin with L ft, Followers with R ft. Fwd steps with heel lead on counts 1 and/or 4; Back steps with toe; side steps with toe/ball of foot. Heel-toe, toe, toe-heel on fwd actions; toe, toe, toe-heel on back actions.
Hesitation – Leaders: L ft fwd s-l-o-w-l-y for cts 1 through 3; R ft back s-l-o-w-l-y for cts 4 through 6. Followers: Natural opposite.
Basic (Fwd) – Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft side ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3. R ft fwd ct 4; L ft side ct 5; R ft closes to L ft ct 6. Followers: Natural opposite.
Box – Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft side ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3. R ft back ct 4; L ft side ct 5; R ft closes to L ft ct 6. Followers: Natural opposite.
Beginner SALSA TECHNIQUE: 4/4 timing dancing 6 cts on beats 1, 2, 3 (no weight change on 4), 5, 6, 7 (no weight change on 8). Latin hip motion throughout. Feet in turn-out position (heels together).
Basic – Leaders: L ft fwd ct 1; R ft replace/inplace ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3; continued hip action ct 4 – no weight change. R ft back (do not drop the heel) ct 5; L ft replace/inplace ct 6; R ft closes to L ft ct 7; continued hip action ct 8 – no weight change. Followers: Natural opposite.
Side Breaks – Leaders: L ft side ct 1; R ft replace/inplace ct 2; L ft closes to R ft ct 3; continued hip action ct 4 – no weight change. R ft side ct 5; L ft replace/inplace ct 6; R ft closes to L ft ct 7; continued hip action ct 8 – no weight change. Followers: Natural opposite.
Right Turn (pattern) – Leaders/Followers (usually is preceeded by a back break on R ft; with weight on R ft, the L ft is now available). L ft fwd at “2 o’clock” step/half-turn; R ft replace/fwd approx. 1/4 turn/spin to face partner; L ft closes to R ft.
Intermediate EAST COAST SWING: Whip (or “Lindy Whip” or “Lindy Timing”) Leaders: Back-Rock/replace; Triple to side turning toward your right while bringing Follower into closed position; keeping the momentum of the turn to the right going, dance cross-behind and side steps on straight time/single beats creating a “whip” or strong turning action (class step 4 times, but can be done any even-numbered amount of counts); end with triple step to the right. Followers: Back-Rock/replace; triple (fwd-side-cross in front) while man brings you into closed position with a strong right turning direction; continue turning right dancing side step then cross-in-front on straight time/single beats (be sure to be parallel to the man – not perpendicular or walking around the man); man will lead you out to complete your left side triples.
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Rita O’Connor, NDCA will be a featured Dance Instructor at the Hawaii Salsa Festival 2011 – Maui Attendees should REGISTER @ www.HawaiiSalsaFestival.com/rita
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JULY- SEPTEMBER 2010 CLASSES…Quarter 3 – Beginner EAST COAST SWING, Intermediate FOXTROT…
Week One: 07/14/10
Beginner EAST COAST SWING: Basic – Leaders: 1-2-3&4-5&6; “Back” L (slightly behind R ft) – “Rock”/Replace R; Side L – Together/closing R to L – Side L; Side R – Together/closing L to R – Side R. Followers: Natural Opposite.
Ladies Right(“Outside”) Underarm Turn (UAT) – Leaders: precede with Basic (above); Back- Rock beginning to lead lady to UAT by lifting L arm up as Leader dances the Side-Together-Side to the L on 3&4; at the end of 4 Leader turns 1/4 to L to remain parallel to Follower, then dances second half of Basic Side-Together-Side to the R on 5&6 as Leader lowers L arm signaling the end of the turn. Followers: Back-Rock; Side-Together-Side to the R on 3&4 making a 1/4 turn to the R “under the connected arm” (end facing Leader); dance second half of Basic Side-Together-Side to the L on 5&6.
Ladies Left (“Inside”) Underarm Turn (UAT) – Leaders:beginning in open position; Back- Rock beginning to lead lady to Inside UAT by lifting L arm up and across to Leader’s R side while dances the 3&4 in-place turning to R up to a 1/4 turn following Lady to remain parallel to Follower, then dances second half of Basic Side-Together-Side to the R on 5&6 as Leader lowers L arm signaling the end of the turn. Followers: Back-Rock; Side-Together-Side slightly forward turning to the L on 3&4 making a 1/4 turn “under the connected arm” (end facing Leader); dance second half of Basic Side-Together-Side to the L on 5&6.
Intermediate FOXTROT – Rhythm: S-S-Q-Q (Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick; 1/2 – 3/4 – 5- 6) Zig-Zag (Right Turn-Left Turn)- Leaders (start DW): Fwd L - Fwd R starting to lead R turning Basic- side L- close R; (start ADC): Back L – Back R starting to lead L turning Basic – Side L – Close R. Followers: Natural Opposite starting with R ft.
Week Two: 07/21/10
Beginner EAST COAST SWING: Open to Closed Basic – Leaders beginning apart from Followers; “Back” L (slightly behind R ft) – “Rock”/Replace R; Draw connected L arm toward L outer thigh slowly bringing lady toward you while dancing Side L – Together/closing R to L – Side L; Side R – Together/closing L to R – Side R as you begin to return to closed position partnership. Followers beginning apart from Leaders dance ”back rock” (R/L); being lead to the side and slightly forward toward partner while dancing Side R – Together/closing L to R – Side R; Side L – Together/closing R to L – Side L as you begin to return to closed position partnership.
INTRO to Walk Back to Flicks- Leaders: precede with Basic (above); instead of Back-Rock take four (4) steps “back” in line of leaders R shoulders leading lady to to do the same by adding upward tone in R arm up; Flick kick L; Flick kick R (turning to face partner); Flick kick L (slightly open to allow lady to kick in-between leader’s legs); Flick kick R (forward in-between partner’s legs); “back-rock.” Followers: Natural Opposite; NOTE: on facing Flick kick, lady’s first flick is with R ft in-between leader’s legs; lady’s second flick is with L ft slightly open to the side to allow leader to kick in-between follower’s legs).
Intermediate FOXTROT: Grapevine – Rhythm: S-S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-Q-Q-Q-Q-S-Q-Q; Leaders (start DW): Fwd L - Fwd R starting to lead R turning Basic- side L- close R; (start ADC): Back L – Back R starting to lead Grapevine – Side L (end facing DW) – Fwd R – Side L (end facing ADC) – Back R – Side L (end facing DW) - Fwd R – Side L (facing W) – Close R ft to L. NOTE: Fwd Steps in Grapevine (and throughout Foxtrot) are Heel Leads! Followers: Natural Opposite starting with R ft. NOTE: Fwd Steps in Grapevine (and throughout Foxtrot) are Heel Leads!
INTRO to Simple Twinkle- Rhythm: S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q; Leaders (start W): Fwd L starting to lead lady to promenade position by the end of count 2 - Side R (ALOD in Prom Position) – close L ft to R; (remaining in Promenade Position): Fwd R starting follower to closed/facing position – Side L (end facing W) – Close R ft to L. Followers: Natural Opposite.
Week Three: 07/28/10
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Reviewed and refined previously learned steps through Back Flicks. Keep smiling and enjoying the energy of the Swing! Mahalo Juan & Cindy for conducting the class in Rita’s absence!
Intermediate FOXTROT – Reviewed and continued to work on lead and footwork in previously introduced dance steps through the Simple Twinkle. Smooth and clear leading with good partnership alignments will make the Foxtrot glide across the floor! Tonight Les & Julie lead the class through the patterns (Terry was under the weather tonight and unable to dance – feel better)!
Week Four: 08/04/10
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Release to Open Position: Leader – starting with a back-rock (1-2), move to the side (L, ct. 3) as you start to turn your upper body to the left so that by the end of the “&-4″ you have made a sharp L turning action beginning to release the follower’s back with your right hand so that she can freely move away from the partnership; as you move to the side (to the R, beginning with ct. 5) the partnership will be apart, but parallel as you both continue with cts. “&-6″ to complete the basic rhythm. You are now in open position. Followers – starting with back-rock (1-2), move to the side in partnership with the man as he begins to turn the partnership in a leftward fashion; at the end of the triple to the side, he will release the closed partnership hold at the base of your left shoulder blade and you will freely dance the second triple to the left staying parallel to the man and not drifting too far away from the connection. You are now in open position.
Man’s Wrap Turn – Leaders: starting in open position (after a “Release”), dance back-rock (1-2), while beginning to draw follower’s connected hand (your left hand) toward your “center” (belly-button) dance your triple step slightly forward but turning to the L over the course of “3-&-4″ triple putting the lady’s hand ON your waist (releasing your hand hold also), turn to face the lady for the second half of your triple to the R, reconnecting your hand hold. This step is typically followed by the lady’s inside/left turn learned previously (the second UAT for the lady). Followers: starting in open position (after a “Release”), dance back-rock (1-2); as you begin your triple step (more or less in-place), the leader will draw your R hand toward his “center” (belly-button) placing your hand ON his waist, continue to keep your hand in contact with his body along his waistline as he turns; for the second triple to the L, make sure to face your partner and reconnecting your hand hold. This step is typically followed by the lady’s inside/left turn learned previously (the second UAT for the lady).
Intermediate FOXTROT - (Welcome back Terry)! Tonight’s new step takes a while to learn the pattern and more even more difficult to learn the technique to execute a smooth pivot…be patient and keep practicing! Promenade Pivot: Leader’s: S-S-Q-Q rhythm throughout; Start facing W in closed position L ft fwd promenade down LOD; R ft fwd promenade dancing forward of the partner toward the right (on the ladies “LOD”/line) while leading the beginning of a right pivot - end ALOD in closed partnership position (but legs open front/back); L ft back and SLIGHTLY to the side (continuing ALOD) continuing to lead the right pivot- end LOD; R ft fwd LOD ending in promenade partnership position (making sure to continue to lead the right turning action (pivot) until the lady is in promenade position, too (leader should WAIT until follower in the proper promenade position before beginning the next “S” of the basic promenade, since lady is still coming around the pivot). Typically finished with a basic promenade. Followers: starting in closed position facing C, R ft fwd in promenade down LOD; L ft fwd in promenade down ending fwd facing LOD; R ft fwd LOD with heel lead stepping in-between man’s legs beginning to pivot right (keeping L foot back/behind the center of your body during the pivot action) – end ALOD; L ft back and slightly to the side, continuing to pivot R ending in promenade position. Man typically will lead a basic promenade after completion of the pivot.
Week Five: 08/11/10 – I’ll see everyone on 8/18/10 – NEXT WEEK!
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Man’s Left UAT - The good news is that the three turns learned during this section ALL have the SAME FOOTWORK, just different arm leads or positions! Otherwise, they are EXACTLY the same! Leaders: starting in open position (after a “Release”), dance back-rock (1-2), while beginning to raise the connected arm on “your half/side of the partnership” to the left (indicating it’s your UAT), dance your triple step slightly forward but turning to the L over the course of “3-&-4″ triple with your arm up; turn to face the lady for the second half of your triple to the R, bringing your connected arm down. This step is typically followed by the lady’s inside/left turn learned previously (the second UAT for the lady). Followers: starting in open position (after a “Release”), dance back-rock (1-2), while the man raises the connected arm on “his side of the partnership” to the right (indicating it’s his UAT), dance your triple step “3-&-4″ more or less in-place allowing the man to turn under the raised arm; turn to face your partner for the second half of your triple to the L, as he brings your connected arm down. This step is typically followed by the lady’s inside/left turn learned previously (the second UAT for the lady).
Man’s Relay (Hand-Off) Turn - Leaders, a reminder: ALL of these 3 men’s turns have the SAME FOOTWORK, just different arm leads or positions! Otherwise, they are EXACTLY the same! Leaders: starting in open position (after a “Release”), dance back-rock (1-2), while beginning to draw follower’s connected hand (your left hand) toward your “center” (belly-button) but NOT having her hand touch your body, begin to reach your right hand OVER your left connected hand and gently embrace the ladies hand from on-top while the connection is in front of you as you dance your triple step slightly forward but turning toward the L over the course of “3-&-4″ triple; as you are finishing the first half of the triple – turning toward the left, “relay” the ladies R hand from YOUR R hand to your left behind your back (ideally at your spine), switching your hands back to a (man’s) L to (ladies) R handhold as you turn to face the lady for the second half of your triple to the R. This step is typically followed by the lady’s inside/left turn learned previously (the second UAT for the lady). Followers: starting in open position (after a “Release”), dance back-rock (1-2); as you begin your triple step (more or less in-place), the leader will draw your R hand toward his “center” reaching for your hand with his R hand as he switches HIS handhold (you do nothing differently); for the second triple to the L, make sure to face your partner and allow the hands to reconnect back to the original hand hold. This step is typically followed by the lady’s inside/left turn learned previously (the second UAT for the lady).
Intermediate FOXTROT - (Les & Julie help you polish up your Foxtrot moves)! Tonight the class reviewed the previously learned steps while taking time to break-down and work on the flow of the newest step: the Promenade Pivot! This is no easy step, but one of the most beautiful and eagerly sought by many! AND, IF it’s done correctly it IS easy – almost effortless! What an incentive! Be patient and keep practicing..I’ll be taking a look YOUR pivot NEXT WEEK when I return to the Academy!
Week Six: 08/18/10 – ALOHA! It’s so wonderful to see everyone again (and to meet all the new students, too!)
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Release to 2 Hand Hold to Hammerlock- Leaders – See previously taught step “Release” – as man releases lady’s back, keep the right arm up so that the lady’s arm slides down to the man’s hand for a 2HH catch; Man’s footwork and lead is the exact same as the Ladies’ R and L UAT with the added 2HH connection; at the end of the first UAT (to the R), the partners should be parallel and facing each other (Hammerlock); then lead the follower “in reverse” to “unwind” her and end in forward facing open 2HH position. Followers: Man with do Release as you slide your L arm down the length of his R arm on the second triple; the man will lead you to dance a R UAT (while continuing with a 2HH) – keep your arms relaxed and without a hand “grip” so that you can end your R UAT in a parallel, facing position to the man – lady’s right arm will be up and her left arm bent at the elbow and her forearm behind her back; the man will lead you to a L UAT to “unwind” you; you will end in a forward facing open 2HH position.
Cuddle- Leaders – starting in 2HH position, man’s first triple is in-place while leading lady to do an inside (L UAT) turn for the first half – bringing her to the leader’s R side in a “cuddle” position (still 2HH); on the second triple, the man dances back 5-&-6, then back-rock; continue dancing forward triple leading the lady out of the turn by raising the L arm; dance your second triple to the R while following the lady. Followers: starting in 2HH position, your first triple is forward while doing an inside (L UAT) turn for the first half – bringing you to the leader’s R side in a “cuddle” position (still 2HH); the second triple dances back 5-&-6, then back-rock; continue dancing forward triple as the man leads you out of the turn by raising your R arm; dance your second triple to the L while the man follows you to the side.
Intermediate FOXTROT - Exciting refinements throughout the evening! Great job everyone!
Week Seven: 08/25/10 – What a night at the SUMMER DANCE PARTY!
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Alternating Underarm Turns (“She Turns-He Turns”) - Leaders – From open position, lead lady into a left UAT (inside UAT) to your right; on the second half (5-&-6) the man does a left UAT after the ladies turn and finishes parallel to the partner. Followers: From open position the man will lead you into a left UAT (inside UAT), continue footwork as previously instructed (man will also do a L UAT on the second half of the step).
Intermediate FOXTROT - Running Steps- Leaders – S-S-Q-Q; all forward steps; heel-toe, heel-toe, toe, toe-heel; Forward-Forward (begin L shoulder lead to outside partner position) – Forward – Forward (remember to lower heel on the fourth step). Followers: Natural Opposite.
Week Eight: 09/01/10
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Shoulder Check - Leaders – From open position, lead lady into a left UAT (inside UAT) to your right as you stay IN-PLACE turning to your left (beginning at lady’s elbow, make a connection with your R hand and gently slide it along her arm, her right shoulder-blade, her left shoulder-blade with a gentle touch); changing the basic rhythm of the ECSwing, man will “check” forward (and across) with his R foot only forward enough to allow his arm to extend and give the lady plenty of room to do her back-break without being pulled off-balance (okay for the man’s hand to drop to the lady’s waist) – this is called an opposition break; leading the lady to coming out of her left UAT, the man raises his L arm while releasing the lady’s back and dancing in-place turning L to face the lady, dancing to the right on the second triple. Followers: From open position the man will lead you into a left UAT (inside UAT) but will connect with you (beginning with your elbow, then sliding up your arm to your R, then L shoulder blades) indicating that you are not to complete the full L UAT; Lady does a back-rock on her LEFT foot (remember to use the HIP and take a SMALL back rock); the man will raise the right arm for the lady to do a R UAT (ending moving L); “back stroke” (with L arm close to the ladies ear and hand up high) is a simple embellishment to do during the back break on her L ft (opposition break).
Intermediate FOXTROT - Fallaway Twinkle- Leaders – S-Q-Q rhythm; First measure of a twinkle (first 3 steps); staying in promenade position leader steps fwd-fwd-closing R ft to L (heel-toe, toe, toe-heel…important to change weight); dancing the fallaway (in the opposition direction): back-back-closing L ft to R (toe, toe, toe-heel); twinkle ending (facing partner). At the end of the second measure as you finish the last closing, a ronde embellishment can be inserted (HOW to lead this will be continued nest week). REMEMBER to stand with chest up, elbows out, chin up and eyes looking ahead! Followers: Natural Opposite.
Week Nine: 09/08/10
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Tuck Turn (Closed)- Leaders – From closed position, steps 1 - 5 of a basic (back-rock-3-and-4) changing the lower left hand connection to chest height in-between the partnership leading the lady to “tuck in” slightly to her left (more parallel to you) with slight compression; on the second triple quickly release the closed position by leading the lady into a UAT and following her out to your right side; ends in open position. Followers: Dance steps 1 -5 of a closed basic as leader brings your right hand connection toward his chest which will cause you to tuck slightly to the left while in his embrace; on the second triple the leader will quickly release the “tuck” leading you into a sharp R UAT ending in open position.
Tuck Turn (Open)- Leaders – From open position, back-rock, then triple in-place changing the lower left hand connection to followers hip height on your right side (“hinge”) in-between the partnership; this will lead the lady to “tuck in” slightly to her left (more parallel to you) with slight compression; on the second triple quickly release the closed position by springing your L arm like a “hinge” leading the lady into a R turn; follow her out to your right side offering your hand (visual lead) for her to reconnect to; ends in open position. Followers: From open position, back-rock, then triple in-place slightly forward toward the leader as he changes the lower R hand connection to your L hip height in-between the partnership “tucking in” slightly to your left with slight compression through your palm; on the second triple he will quickly release the hand-hold you will dance a solo R turn (either as a triple step with a gradual turn or a quick spin – followed by 2 “in-place” steps of the triple completion; leader will offer his hand (visual lead) for you to reconnect ; ends in open position.
Intermediate FOXTROT - Promenade Pivot with Ladies UAT & Extended Ending: Leader’s: S-S-Q-Q-Q-Q rhythm throughout (note additional Q-Q at end); Start facing W in closed position- steps 1 – 4 of the promenade pivot taught previously; before the end of the last step (ct 6) begin to release the lady’s back and lift your L arm to indicate a UAT on the upcoming Q-Q: leader takes 2 additional fwd promenade steps while the lady dances the Q-Q R UAT; continue the step with the basic promenade adding on an additional “side-close” (Q-Q). Followers: S-S-Q-Q-Q-Q rhythm throughout (note additional Q-Q at end); Start in closed position- steps 1 – 4 of the promenade pivot taught previously; before the end of the last step (ct 6) man will lift your L arm to indicate a R UAT on the upcoming Q-Q as you continue down the LOD; continue the step with the basic promenade – the man will add-on an additional “side-close” (Q-Q).
Week Eleven: 09/16/10
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Back-Back w/Flicks- Leaders: Back-Rock; Triple Step – on the last ct (#4) of the triple to the left release the ladies back and turn the connecting hand (from the wrist) clockwise (right) to initiate a back-to-back turn (turning yourself at the end of the triple); do the second triple to your right (now back-to-back with the lady); without traveling farther/with weight on your right ft, “flick” your left leg across your standing leg and from the knee down do 2 flicks on the single beats in lieu of the “back-rock” counts; triple to your left and at the end, turn the connecting hand counter-clockwise (left) to initiate a return to face-to-face position (turning yourself at the end of the triple); do your second triple to your right (usually end in open position). Followers: Back-Rock; Triple Step – on the last ct (#4) of the triple leader will initiate a back-to-back turn; do the second triple to your left (now back-to-back with the leader); without traveling farther/with weight on your left foot, “flick” your right leg across your standing leg and from the knee down do 2 flicks on the single beats in lieu of the “back-rock” counts; triple to your right and at the end of the triple the leader will initiate a return to face-to-face position; do your second triple to your left (usually end in open position).
Intermediate FOXTROT - Slip Pivot: Leaders - First 3 steps of a Twinkle (S-Q-Q); Fwd R ft Promenade slightly overturning frame to R for “wind-up” while compressing weight into floor to reverse direction (S)-Replace L ft beginning to rotate frame to L leading lady to turn and return to closed position (Q) – R ft back (ADC) allowing lady to step fwd – end DC; leader can follow with any step of his choosing; in class we created flow with a basic. Followers: First 3 steps of a Twinkle (S-Q-Q); Fwd L ft Promenade (S)-Replace R ft as man leads you to pivot on your R ft turning you to closed position (Q) - L ft fwc (ADC) – end DC; leader can follow with any step of his choosing
Week Twelve: 09/22/10 FREE GUEST NIGHT Open to EVERYONE – FREE Intro to Salsa Class INCLUDED with Dance Party!
Beginner EAST COAST SWING – Syncopated Back-Rock Variations (A): Hold/Hip-Back-Rock - Leaders & Followers: Rhythm 1(as long as you can) -a-2 (Q-n-Q); After the second triple of a basic, instead of a straight count 1-2 (or Q-Q) for the back-rock; hold the “1″ (or you can pop you hip out to the side for emphasis), then dance in syncopation back-rock to the rhythm of “a-2″ or “n-Q” (“a” or “n” designates a quarter beat so it is not evenly placed in-between 2 beats on the half beat). (B): Kick-Ball-Change - Leaders & Followers: Rhythm 1-a-2 (Q-n-Q); After the second triple of a basic, instead of a straight count 1-2 (or Q-Q) for the back-rock; flick your leg from the knee down on the “1″ count, then dance in syncopation back-rock to the rhythm of “a-2″ or “n-Q” (“a” or “n” designates a quarter beat so it is not evenly placed in-between 2 beats on the half beat).
Intro to SALSA – 1-2-3/4, 5-6-7/8 or Q-Q-S, Q-Q-S Basic Leaders: Fwd L-Replace R-Close L to R; Back R-Replace L-Close R to L Followers: Back R-Replace L-Close R to L; Fwd L-Replace R-Close L to R.
Side Breaks Leaders: Side L-Replace R-Close L to R; Side R-Replace L-Close R to L Followers: Side R-Replace L-Close R to L; Side L-Replace R-Close L to R.
Open Break UAT Leaders: (Usually preceded by Basic) As leader lowers his L arm down and releases the Lady’s back, he dances: L Back,R-Replace, Close L to R; Beginning to raise his L arm to indicated that the Lady should do an UAT on the next beat, he dances: R Back,L-Replace, Close R to L. Followers: Back R-Replace L-Close R to L; man will raise your R arm on the beat preceding your UAT: Fwd L (at “2 o’clock”) then turn-Replace R turning to face partner-Close L to R.
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Quarter 2 – Beginner FOXTROT, Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO, Intermediate RUMBA…
Week One: 04/14/10
Beginner FOXTROT – first rhythm: S-S-Q-Q (Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick; 1/2 – 3/4 – 5- 6) Basic – Leaders (start w/L ft): Fwd L - Fwd R- side L- close R; Followers: Natural Opposite starting with R ft. Left Rock Turn – Leaders: Fwd L – Back R – Side L – close R to L (up to a quarter turn left on the back step); Followers: Natural Opposite.
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: Review & Refine Walks to Cross and Fwd Ochos (see Q1 notes below).
Intermediate RUMBA: Left Turning Box (see Q1 notes below). Cross Body Lead Leaders: Fwd 1/2 Box, Back (R) commence turning L-Side L (facing 90 degrees L)-Close R to L continuing turning L; Fwd L (now 180 degrees opposite of start position)-Side R-Close L to R; Back 1/2 Box. Followers: Back 1/2 Box, Fwd L (partner will lead you to turn upper body diagonal right slightly) – Fwd R (at slight diagonal right) – Fwd L (leader’s rotation of chest creates pivot on your L ft…wait!); Back R – Side L – Close R to L; Fwd L – Side R – Close L to R.
Week Two: 04/21/10
Beginner FOXTROT S-S-Q-Q (Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick; 1/2 – 3/4 – 5- 6); Forward Steps are HEEL leads; Backward Steps RELEASE the toe; Side Steps are BALL-FLAT Promenade- Leaders facing wall to start. Lead lady with change in direction through palm on her back without pushing her forward – leaders turn30 degrees (or thereabouts) to their left simultaneously (start w/L ft): Fwd L - Fwd R (return turning right to face partner)- side L- close R; Followers: Natural Opposite starting with R ft. Sequence: (LOD) 2 Basics, 3 Left Rock Turns “LRT” (to end facing W), 2 Promenades, 1 LRT (to end facing LOD).
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: Review & Refine Cortado (see Q1 notes below). Back Ochos Leaders: L Fwd-R Fwd-L Fwd/R Close (“Silent” weight change so that lady does not change her weight) rotating chest to left leading lady to swivel on standing leg; L Diagonal Fwd, then rotate chest to right leading lady to swivel on standing leg; R Diagonal Fwd, then rotate chest to left (repeat Back Ochos twice); L Fwd; R Fwd/Outside Partner; lead lady to cross – leader no weight change while lady crosses. Followers: R Back-L Back-R Back (man will lead you to rotate leftward while on your R ft); L back diagonal (man will lead you to swivel to right – back ocho); R back diagonal (swivel repeating Back Ochos twice); L Back; R Back; L ft Crosses (change weight).
Intermediate RUMBA: Cross Body Lead combined with steps from Beginner Level Rumba. Back Spot Turn (INTRODUCTION ONLY) Leaders (from open position): (starting at Q-Q-S) L Back – R Replace – L Fwd turning chest to R to closed embrace with lady; (continue turning chest rightward) R ft crosses behind (heel up) – L ft side – R ft crosses behind (heel up); L ft side – R ft crosses behind (heel up) – L ft side;R ft crosses behind (heel up) – L ft side – R ft closes to L ft…to be continued! Followers: (INTRODUCTION ONLY) From open position starting at Q-Q-S: r Back - L Replace - R Fwd turning chest to R to closed embrace with leader; (continue turning chest rightward staying parallel to man!) L ft side - R ft slides in front - L ft side; R ft slides in front - L ft side – R ft slides in front; L ft side - R ft slides in front - L ft side…to be continued!
Week Three: 04/28/10
Beginner FOXTROT S-S-Q-Q (Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick; 1/2 – 3/4 – 5- 6); Forward Steps are HEEL leads; Backward Steps RELEASE the toe; Side Steps are BALL-FLAT Promenade w/Underarm Turn (UAT)- Leaders facing wall to start. Lead lady with change in direction through palm on her back without pushing her forward, while simultaneously raising L arm UP (not out) - leaders turn30 degrees (or thereabouts) to their left simultaneously (start w/L ft): Fwd L - Fwd R (return turning right to face partner) loweing L arm to standard hold as lady finishes turn- side L- close R; Followers: Fwd R ft turning Rward – Side L ft turning Rward end facing leader – side R- close L. Sequence: (LOD) 2 Basics, 3 Left Rock Turns “LRT” (to end facing W), 1 Plain Promenade – 1 Promenade w/UAT 1 Plain Promenade, 1 LRT (to end facing LOD).
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: Review & Refine Back Ochos
Intermediate RUMBA: Cross Body Lead combined with steps from Beginner Level Rumba. Reviewed Back Spot Turn
Week Four: 05/05/10
Beginner FOXTROT S-S-Q-Q (Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick; 1/2 – 3/4 – 5- 6); Forward Steps are HEEL leads; Backward Steps RELEASE the toe; Side Steps are BALL-FLAT. Refined Promenade w/Underarm Turn (UAT).
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: Review & Refine Back Ochos. Learned technique for Right-turning Molinette S-S-Q-Q (Leaders/Followers): R Fwd 1/2 turn; L Side 1/4 turn; R Back no turn; L Side no turn (equal size steps).
Intermediate RUMBA: Cross Body Lead combined with steps from Beginner Level Rumba. Back Spot Turn Leaders (from open position): (starting at Q-Q-S) L Back – R Replace – L Fwd turning chest to R to closed embrace with lady; (continue turning chest rightward) R ft crosses behind (heel up) – L ft side – R ft crosses behind (heel up); L ft side – R ft crosses behind (heel up) – L ft side;R ft crosses behind (heel up) – L ft side – R ft closes to L ft…NEW: L ft back in 5th position-R ft replace – L ft side (repeat 5th position Hand-to-Hand 2 more times – left and right sides); after replacing R ft – L ft side – (to solo turn)…commence turning leftward R ft Fwd (toward “10 o’clock”)-turn, L ft replace turning to face partner, R ft closes to L ft, L ft Side, R ft closes to L ft! Followers: From open position starting at Q-Q-S: r Back - L Replace - R Fwd turning chest to R to closed embrace with leader; (continue turning chest rightward staying parallel to man!) L ft side - R ft slides in front - L ft side; R ft slides in front - L ft side – R ft slides in front; L ft side - R ft slides in front - L ft side…NEW: R ft back in 5th position-L ft replace - R ft side (repeat 5th position Hand-to-Hand 2 more times – right and left sides); after replacing L ft - R ft side – (to solo turn)….commence turning rightward L ft Fwd (toward “2o’clock”)-turn, R ft replace turning to face partner, L ft closes to R ft, R ft Side, L ft closes to R ft!
Week Five: 05/12/10
Beginner FOXTROT - NEW Rhythm! S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q (Slow-Quick-Quick-Slow-Quick-Quick; 1/2 – 3-4 – 5/6 – 7 – 8); Forward Steps are HEEL leads; Backward Steps RELEASE the toe; Side Steps are BALL-FLAT. Box Step: Leaders: Fwd – Side – Close; Back – Side – Close. Followers: Natural Opposite
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: Right-turning Molinette (from walks-to-cross) Leaders: Fwd Walk – Outside Partner Fwd Walk – Fwd Walk – Cross R ft behind L ft keep weight on Fwd L ft (lead lady to cross, then Fwd turning right); keeping weight on the first S-S of the lady’s molinette continue rotating rightward; as lady begins Q-Q in molinette transfer your weight to R ft releasing the L ft bringing it alongside the standing R leg; with no additional weight changes, lead lady to fwd ocho on your right side, then a fwd ocho in front of you. Followers: Back -Back – Back – “Cross” – Leader will indicate a leftward swivel, then invite you to walk forward turning right into a moinette with the timing of S-S-Q-Q with R Fwd 1/2 turn - L Side 1/4 turn - R Back no turn - L Side no turn (equal size steps to move evenly around the man); Fwd ocho (R ft); Fwd ocho (L ft).
Intermediate RUMBA: Side Basic Leaders: L side – Close R to L – Stay closed with weight change to L ft; repeat other side: R side - Close L to R – Stay closed with weight change to R ft.
Week Six: 05/19/10 – SPRING DANCE
Beginner FOXTROT - BONUS STEP! Promenade Check (or “Dip”) S-S-Q-Q (Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick; 1/2 – 3/4 – 5-6); Leaders facing wall to start. Lead lady with change in direction through palm on her back without pushing her forward – leaders turn30 degrees (or thereabouts) to their left simultaneously (start w/L ft): Fwd L - Fwd R (with soft bend in standing leg to create a gentle “dip”) replace L (“back”)- close R to L ft; Followers: Natural Opposite starting with R ft.
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: BONUS STEPS: Calasite & Planaeo!
Calesita “merry-go-round” (from side step) Leaders: Side L (with body lift to indicate to the lady not to change weight) - Keeping lady on-balance and an equal distance circular walk, step side R with slight leftward body turn as you walk back as many times as needed to end facing LOD ending with weight on L ft; lower body weight to release lady from holding “up” on 1 ft; step outside partner R, continuing walk to cross. Followers: Side R (leader will create body lift to indicate you are not to change weight; lady can lift to ball-of-foot/toe weight) - Staying on-balance on the R ft, the man will walk an equal distance circular backward walk to end facing LOD; leader will lower body weight as follower will now be prepared to step with her L ft back into Walk-to-Cross (or another move of his choice).
Planeo “Plank” (from Walk-to-Cross) Leaders: Fwd L into Walk-to-Cross with Leader not changing weight (“tap”) on last count keeping weight on L ft (with body lift keeping lady in the “cross” on her L ft – lift will indicate to the lady not to change weight) - Keeping lady on-balance and an equal distance circular walk, step side R with slight leftward body turn as you walk back as many times as needed to end facing LOD ending with weight on R ft; lower body weight to release lady from holding “up” on 1 ft; continuing to a step of your choice. Followers: Fwd R into Walk-to-Cross (leader will create body lift to indicate you are not to change weight after you’ve done the “cross;” lady can lift to ball-of-foot/toe weight) - Staying on-balance on the L ft, the man will walk an equal distance circular backward walk to end facing LOD; leader will lower body weight as follower will now be prepared to step with her R ft back into another move of his choice (suggested: Fwd Ochos).
No Intermediate RUMBA Class tonight. SPRING DANCE!
Week Seven: 05/26/10
Beginner FOXTROT - Introduction Only to: Right Turning Basic & Mini-Pivot S-S-Q-Q S-S-Q-Q(Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick; Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick); Leaders facing diagonal wall to start: Fwd L - Fwd R (beginning to lead lady to right turn through frame/spine/chest)-(ending ADC) Side L-Close R; (Pivot) Back L turning on L ft to R ending DC-Fwd R – Side L – Close R to Left. Followers: Natural Opposite starting with R ft. Pivot: Fwd R (heel lead – keep L leg/ft behind body during the turn staying in the man’s frame and on his right side).
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: REVIEW: Calasite & Planaeo and Molinette!
Intermediate RUMBA: Beginning Technique for Crossover Rocks
Week Eight: 06/02/10
Beginner FOXTROT - Right Turning Basic & Mini-Pivot S-S-Q-Q S-S-Q-Q(Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick; Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick); Leaders facing diagonal wall to start: Fwd L - Fwd R (beginning to lead lady to right turn through frame/spine/chest)-(ending ADC) Side L-Close R; (Pivot) Back L turning on L ft to R ending DC-Fwd R – Side L – Close R to Left. Followers: Natural Opposite starting with R ft. Pivot: Fwd R (heel lead – keep L leg/ft behind body during the turn staying in the man’s frame and on his right side).
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: REVIEWED: Traveling steps v. “in-place” steps; worked on social “Floor-craft”!
Intermediate RUMBA (Part One): Crossover Rocks S-Q-Q Throughout; Leaders Begin with steps 1-4 of Basic to Crossover (S-Q-Q-S); crossover rocks (fwd & back) Q-Q-S (turning to face partner at the end of S); side rocks Q-Q-S (turning to crossover at the end of S); crossover rocks (fwd & back) Q-Q-S (turning to face partner at the end of S); side rock R – side rock L – (bring L arm back to start closed position which will lead lady to come toward Leader while dancing) Half-Box: Back R – Side L – Close R to L. Followers: Natural Opposite.
Intermediate RUMBA (Part Two): Continuous Crossover Lock Step S-Q-Q Throughout; Leaders Begin with steps 1-7 of Basic to Crossover (S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S); begin crossover to Leader’s leftside (keeping Rumba rhythm throughout) progressing slight forward with each hip/foot action, continue lock steps (for as many as the Leader desires) until the forward foot action is on the first quick of the measure in which the Leader will end the step with a standard crossover action. Followers: Natural Opposite.
Leader can combine Crossover Rocks and/or the Continous Crossover Lock Steps on either or both sides of the “crossover”
Week Nine: 06/09/10
Beginner FOXTROT -REVIEWED: Right Turning Basic & Mini-Pivot
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: Molinette to the Left from Back Ochos: Leaders dance lady to Back Ochos (on any even number Ocho – Ocho to the right for the man); with a rotational lead to the left, step L ft Fwd with weight change leading Lady to dance “back-side-fwd” of a left-turning Molinette (Q-Q-S); then dance a Left Rock Turn (Q-Q-S-S; Fwd-Back Rock [turning leftward]-Side-Side ending LOD). Followers: Back Ocho to left turning Molinette: L ft Back-R ft Side-L ft Fwd traveling around the leader and collecting feet at the end; Left Rock Turn (natural opposite of Leader).
Intermediate RUMBA (Part One): INTRODUCED: Back Spot Turn with Inside UAT: Leaders follow sequence instructed in Week Four above, during second Back Spot Turn (dancing L ft side- R ft behind – L ft side) lead the lady to an Inside (L) turn at the beginning of the measure making sure to drop right arm low to her waist for guiding and giving her gentle boundaries within the partnership frame; continue step as instructed previously. Followers: during the second Back Spot Turn man will lead you to do an Inside (L) turn which you should not rush to get around (use the full measure) dancing R ft Fwd turning left – L ft Side continuing to turn left – R ft Fwd/crossing in front and squaring up to resume closed partnership position; continue step as instructed previously.
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ACADEMY GUEST NIGHT – EVERYONE’S FREE! Bring a Never-Took-Dance-Lessons Friend, invite a former Student/Dancer, come back and try us out again! WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23rd!
You are welcome to invite friends & family to a NIGHT AT THE ACADEMY! FREE INTRODUCTORY DANCE CLASS! FREE Beginner & Intermediate CLASSES!FREE DANCE PARTY!
6:30 pm Beginner Foxtrot
7:00 pm Introduction to FOXTROT for NEWCOMERS**
Current & Previous Dancers – Foxtrot Dance Practice
7:30 pm Beginner Level Two Argentine Tango
8:00 – 9:00 pm OPEN DANCE PRACTICE SESSION for EVERYONE!
NON-STOP DJ MIX: Foxtrot, Argentine Tango & Rumba ONLY
Share your love of dance with Friends! Previous Academy Students and previous Academy Guests FREE for the evening. Academy Students are welcome to join their guests on the dance floor OR practice their own Foxtrot steps to the non-stop Foxtrot music between 7 – 7:30 pm.
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Week Ten: 06/16/10
Beginner FOXTROT -Progressive Twinkle (easiest from Box for rhythm change S-Q-Q_S-Q-Q): Leaders “prep step” Fwd L into half-box with 1/8 turn leftward as the Leader steps with smaller-than-usual side-close align DC with Follower in outside position (to Leader’s R); R Fwd turning rightward as Leader makes 1/4 turn, then smaller-than-usual side-close now facing DW with Follower in outside position (to Leader’s L); L fwd turning leftward making 1/4 turn, smaller-than-usual side-close facing DC with Follower in outside position (to Leader’s R); R Fwd turning rightward making 1/4 turn, smaller-than-usual side-close with Follower in outside position (to Leader’s LR);…after “prep step” Leader alternates R & L turns in even number increments, chosing to end this pattern when R ft is available; to end step Back R into a left turning box, continuing to turn until facing LOD. Followers: Natural Opposite
Beginner Level 2 ARGENTINE TANGO: Boleo (“to throw”): Simpliest entry: Leaders Side L and keeping Follower on their R ft and not moving; Leaders side L creating the “triangle/tripod” and keeping lady on her R ft (she will not step with you) turning leftward; replace weight to L ft (keeping lady on R ft); lead Follower to “Cross.” Followers: R ft Side (relaxing L leg); rotate through hips responding to man’s side step allowing your loose leg to move into the Boleo; Man will lead you to “Cross.” Boleo: Keep the knees together, swivel on the supporting leg with a whipping action of the non-dancing “relaxed” leg. This is a leadable step – Followers do not try to make it happen – it’s the Leader’s job!
Intermediate RUMBA (Part One): Open Rumba Walks: 1/2 CBL with only a quarter turn, then a box (leading lady into side-by-side position – keeping L arm low); as Leader goes back on his R ft (ct. S) (leading lady to walk forward on her L); 3 sets of Q-Q-S (L-R-L; R-L-R; L-R-L); on the final L back (in a circular motion) leader rotates hand connection counterclockwise (turning the lady to face him) than slowly draws in his L arm to standard dance position while dancing R back (small step)-L back (small step)-R ft closes to L as Follower gets closer. Followers: 1/2 CBL “as usual” until the 7th step (R Fwd) when you will “spiral” turning L, but remaining on the R ft (S), then side-close (Q-Q); you will be lead to take L ft fwd on the next S and begin a series of Q-Q-S walks forward (R-L-R; L-R-L; R-L-R); on the final R fwd step, the Leader will turn you to face him and you will continue your next 3 Fwd walks into your partner’s embrace.
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Quarter 1 – Beginner Rumba, Beginner Argentine Tango, Intermediate Salsa…
Week One: 01/13/10
Beginner RUMBA: Box – Leaders: (start w/L ft): Fwd – side – close; Back – side – close (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q). Don’t forget to SMILE! Followers: Natural Opposite. Don’t forget to SMILE and show up ready to sway those hips and have FUN!!!!!
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO: Weight Changes & Walks. Tonight laid down the foundation of the Argentine Tango – simple, subtle and an increased awareness of balance! Although we danced in an open-embrace, you should also practice ALONE the closed feet weight changes with minimum topline (shoulder) sway and the forward and back walks in a straight line. Next week we begin the exciting new steps of Walks to Cross…and maybe even Rocks! Keep practicing your balance!!!
Intermediate SALSA: Refer to “dance step” explanations (below) in previous dance course lessons.
“Walkaround:” Basic – Open Break to UAT w/handshake hold (HSH) connection – Open Break to UAT (visual lead for left-to-left hand hold connection); at the end of turn L hand over R) – man leads lady to forward walks around him (to his right) instead of letting her close her feet at the end of her turn (making sure to follow Q-Q-S rhthym throughout) – man turns on-spot to L to meet lady as he leads her for her final UAT then switches hands back to standard dance connection.
Week Two: 01/20/10
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): Crossover – Leaders: (start w/L ft): Fwd Half Box; ”Prep Step” to R side beginning to open embrace and turn R (S); ”Crossover” Fwd L, Replace R (connecting with lady’s hand), Side L beginning to turn L; “Crossover” Fwd R, Replace L (connecting with lady’s hand), Side R beginning to turn R; “Crossover” Fwd L, Replace R (keep L hand hold connection), Side L raising arm to indicate UAT; (while lady does UAT) Back R, Replace L, Close R to L; side L (Q), Close R to L (Q). Begin Box - Repeat Followers: Natural Opposite: Half Box; side L turning L (S); ”Crossover” Fwd R, Replace L (connecting with man’s hand), Side R; “Crossover” Fwd L, Replace R (connecting with man’s hand), Side L ; “Crossover” Fwd R, Replace L (keep R hand hold connection), Side R (man raises arm to indicate UAT – face him in parallel position; Fwd L (2 o’clock) – turn, Replace R (turn), Close L to R; side R (Q), Close L to R (Q). There are no “taps” in Rumba.
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO – All “Slow” counts (initiate with Weight Changes before moving into steps to establish partnership): Walks to Cross – Leaders: Fwd L, Fwd (outside partner) R, Fwd L (slightly smaller step – leading lady to regular step), Close R to L (change weight) – lady will “cross” Followers: Back R, Back L, Back R, allow L leg to naturally “cross” to right side of R ft in a parallel and tight position – change weight as man changes weight.
Intermediate SALSA: “Shoulder Catch:” Previous Step ended with L over R handhold. Leaders: Fwd L, Replace R (begin turning shoulders to L), Side L (leading lady forward); Back R (leading lady to start inside (L) UAT), Replace L (continuing turning L), Close R (180 degree turn); with lady in front shadow position, continue following the momentum of her turn: Side L, Replace R, Close L to R leading lady to face you, preparing for UAT; Back R, Replace L, Close R to L (change handhold to standard connection). Followers: Back R, Replace L, Fwd (diagonal) R; Fwd L beginning L inside turn, Back R continuing turn, Fwd L continuing turn; Fwd R (man will stop turning momentum), Replace L, Close R to L turning R to face man; UAT.
Week Three: 01/27/10
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): Reviewed Box & Crossover – adding technique, arm styling and lead/follow guidelines for ease. Began instruction on “Spot Turns” (same as UAT technique) for women AND men: Side step R, “2 o’clock” placement of L ft Fwd (step, then turn keeping weight on L ft), Replace R then turn to face starting position, Close L ft to R. PRACTICE!!! 
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO – All “Slow” counts (initiate with Weight Changes before moving into steps to establish partnership): Rock Step - Leaders: Fwd L, Back R, Side L, Side R Followers: Natural Opposite – Back R, Fwd L, Side R, Side L.
Intermediate SALSA: Completed ”Shoulder Catch:” See Previous Week’s instruction.
Week Four: 02/03/10
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): Alternating UnderArm Turns (UAT)- Leaders: (start w/L ft): Fwd Half Box; ”Prep Step” to R side beginning to open embrace - remain parallel to your parnter (S); Back Break L, Replace R, Side L leading Lady to UAT; (as lady begins UAT) Back Break R, Replace L, Side R beginning to raise your R hand to prep your UAT; begin Man’s UAT- Fwd L THEN turn, Replace R (turning to face partner), Side L raising arm to indicate Lady’s UAT; (as lady begins UAT) Back R, Replace L, Side R beginning to raise your R hand to prep your UAT; begin Man’s UAT- Fwd L THEN turn, Replace R (turning to face partner), Side L raising arm to indicate Lady’s UAT; (Lady’s last UAT) Back R, Replace L, Close R to L; side L (Q), Close R to L (Q). Begin Box - Repeat Followers: Natural Opposite: Half Box; side L facing partner (S); Back Break R, Replace L , Side R; UAT Fwd L THEN turn, Replace R (turning to face man), Side L ; Back Break R, Replace L, Side R; UAT Fwd L THEN turn, Replace R (turning to face man), Side L ; Back Break R, Replace L, Side R; UAT Fwd L THEN turn; Replace R (turn), Close L to R; side R (Q), Close L to R (Q). There are no “taps” in Rumba.
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO – All “Slow” counts (initiate with Weight Changes before moving into steps to establish partnership): Forward Ochos (“Figure 8s”) Leaders begin leading Lady to Walks & Cross; as the Lady ”crosses” Man collects R ft to L but does NOT change weight – leads Lady to “turn L-ward”; R ft side leading Lady into Fwd Ocho; L ft side leading Lady into Fwd Ocho; R ft side leading Lady into Fwd Ocho; L ft side leading Lady into Fwd Ocho then squaring lady up to face Man as he changes weight (Lady does not). L ft is available for new step. Followers: Man will lead you from Walks to Cross; as you “Cross” and change weight Man will rotate you to “turn L-ward”…WAIT! As he steps to the side you will extend with your R leg, change the weight to the R ft, then swivel your hips only (staying parallel to the Man) and your L ft is available. Repeat this pattern to the R side with your L ft and again, two more times. The Man will lead you to a R-ward Fwd Ocho on your L ft and “square” you up to him (without rotation into a Fwd Ocho). Then he will begin a new step (your R ft will be available).
Intermediate SALSA: Passing CBL. with Man’s R arm around Lady’s back (mutual connection) Leader does CBL steps 1-3 (Q-Q-S) Lady is perpendicular to Man; now leading the lady to his L side, Man dances Back R, Replace L, Fwd turning L to end perpendicular to Lady; Fwd L (begin to turn L), Side R (continuing to turn L), Side L (Lady is perpendicular to Man and in his R arm again); Sequence can be repeated until once again the man is on his L ft side. To end the pattern, Man visually places L arm in inside-turn lead position for woman to step forward and turn under as Man steps R Back, L Replace, Closes R to L (Lady does Inside UAT ending parallel to partner). Followers: does CBL steps 1-3 (Q-Q-S) Lady is perpendicular to Man; Fwd L (begin to turn L), Side R (continuing to turn L), Side L; Back R, Replace L, Fwd turning L ending perpendicular to Man; this pattern will be repeated until the Man visually places L arm in inside-turn lead position in front of woman; Lady steps forward for TRAVELLING inside UAT ending facing partner).
Week Five: 02/10/10
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): Slow UAT- Leaders: (2 box steps) As the Leader steps back on the second half of the box, raise L arm and release the lady’s back leading her to a slow, walking UAT; continue dancing the box; she will return to your arms by the last Q-Q (side-close) to embrace. Followers: Half Box; as you step forward beginning the 2nd half of the box, the man will release your back and raise your R arm indicating a SLOW WALKING UAT for Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S; on the final Q-Q you will get close enough to met him in embrace! Have a Loving Valentine’s Day!
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO – To encourage more creativity in your Argentine Tango and improve your leading & following skills, students were encouraged to make the “Cross” action step (in the Walks to Cross) dancing S-S-Q-Q. The “quick” timing was also introduced in the Rock Step: Q-Q-S-S whereby the fwd/back action emphasized the “Quicks”; the Rock Step can also be turned L with the man walking FORWARD into the lady’s space THEN shaping a L turn through their upper body.
SPECIAL Intermediate ARGENTINE TANGO: Brian O’Connor & Rita O’Keane lead the dance students who have completed previous Beginner level ballroom dance classes in a fun exercise of “borrowing” steps from other ballroom/latin dances and incorporating them in the Argentine Tango. MAHALO Brian & Rita!
Week Six: 02/17/10
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): Rumba Rocks (Leaders) Precede with Box; L ft fwd; Fwd Rock: R ft fwd-L ft replace-R ft fwd; Fwd Rock: L ft fwd-R ft replace-L ft fwd; R ft side; L ft closes to R ft (completing the first half of the box); R ft back; Back Rock: L ft back-R ft replace-L ft back; Back Rock: R ft back-L ft replace-R ft back; L ft side; R ft closes to L ft (completing the step). (Follower) Natural Opposite.
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO – Closed Box – (“cross” by lady/leader closes feet with weight change) then Leader takes L ft fwd; R ft side; close L ft to R ft (changing weight); Leader then steps back on R ft; side on L ft; then forward outside partner to go into Cross. (Follower) Natural Opposite. Open Box – (“cross” by lady/leader closes feet with weight change) then Leader takes L ft fwd; R ft side; leading lady to outside partner position L ft steps back; R ft; side on L ft; then forward outside partner to go into Cross. (Follower) Natural Opposite.
Intermediate SALSA: Reviewed previously taught steps. Added “Suzy Q” foot variation to be done with either a 2-HH or a visual lead. Usually preceded by a Basic (Leaders: prep by turning hips/upper body to R when closing ft in Basic) with strong foot swivel action “crossover” L ft fwd; R ft replace; L ft fwd with strong swivel action “crossover” R ft to the L side – R ft fwd; L ft replace; R ft fwd. Repeat as desired; square up to partner to end step and resume with L ft available for new pattern. (Follower) Natural Opposite.
Week Seven: 03/03/10
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): Fifth Position Breaks to Hand-toHand to UAT Leaders: (start w/L ft): Fwd Half Box S-Q-Q; ”Prep Step” to R side staying in closed embrace and turn Lward (S); ”Fifth Position” (or “back break”) Back L, Replace R turning to face partner, Side L (releasing lady’s back),beginning to turn R; Back break R, Replace L, Side R (offering lady your R hand) beginning to turn L; Back L, Replace R turning to face partner, Side L (offering lady your L hand),beginning to turn R; Back R, Replace L turning to face partner, Side R beginning to turn L; Back L, Replace R turning to face partner, Side L raising arm to indicate UAT; (while lady does UAT) Back R, Replace L, Close R to L; side L (Q), Close R to L (Q). Followers: Natural Opposite: Half Box; side L turning Rward (S); ”Fifth Position” Back break R, Replace L , Side R; Fifth Position Break to Side; Fifth Position Break to Side (repeat as many times as man leads until he raises arm to indicate UAT – face him in parallel position; Fwd L (2 o’clock) – turn, Replace R (turn), Close L to R; side R (Q), Close L to R (Q). There are no “taps” in Rumba.
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO – Cortado- (can be preceeded with “cross” by lady/leader closes feet with weight change) then Leader “rocks” L ft fwd; R ft replace; L ft back in outside partner position leadng lady R side; Leader then steps side on R ft (weight change); replace L ft rotating to L; then close leading lady to Cross (with weight change). (Follower) Natural Opposite to end in Cross.
Intermediate SALSA: Walkaround with Head Loops and Free Turn- (Leaders) Open Break to UAT w/handshake hold (HSH) connection & visual lead for left-to-left hand hold); at the end of turn L hand over R) – man leads lady to forward walks around him (to his right) instead of letting her close her feet at the end of her turn (making sure to follow Q-Q-S rhthym throughout) – man continues to face the same direction until the lady is behind him (and their 2 HH connection is at this shoulder height); Leader side breaks R while simultaneously bringing 2HH from R shoulder to L shoulder and releasing lady’s hand (head loop #1) then position his free R hand to his side for lady to connect with – low near the hip; Leader side breaks L while simultaneously bring 2HH from L shoulder to R shoulder and releasing lady’s hand (head loop #2); Leader back-breaks on R ft first turning shoulders to R to allow lady to do a traveling inside free-turn past him ending in front of Leader. (Follower) Open Break – UAT to Walkaround ending behind man with weight on R ft; L ft side break; R ft side break; (inside (L) free-turn) L fwd, R, L (end facing partner in open position).
Week Eight: 03/10/10
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): Reviewed Fifth Position Breaks to Hand-toHand to UAT Leaders (see above); Added combination of Fifth Position Breaks to Crossover (lead/follow connection much be clear).
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO – Reviewed and polished all steps.
Intermediate SALSA: Crossbody Lead (starts open, ends closed); 2nd CBL w/Ladies Inside UAT. (Basic to UAT to HSH) — NEW: Hammerlock to Cuddle to Sweetheart (Leaders): L Back, Replace (turning Rward), Side (leading lady to hammerlock by bringing R arm down); R ft Fwd/Across, Replace, Side (moving lady in opposition); L ft Fwd/Across, Replace, Side (moving lady in opposition and raising R arm to shoulder/cuddle level); repeat foot action (then leading lady’s arm overhead/sweetheart); repeat foot action; prior to R ft Fwd/Across bring 2HH down to signal end of breaks – leader faces lady (L over R 2HH); End with CBL to Shoulder Check & UAT (see above). (Follower) R Back, Replace (turning Lward), Side (leader will put you into a hammerlock – RELAX your arms); L ft Back/Across, Replace, Side (moving in opposition to Man); R ft back/Across, Replace, Side (movingi n opposition to Man); foot pattern to be repeated as leader changes arm level to shoulder then to over head; when leader lowers 2HH down there are no more opposition breaks and leader will end wiht CBL to Shoulder Check & UAT (see above).
Week Nine: 03/17/10 – HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY! — NEXT WEEK IS GUEST WEEK!
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): Turning Box (Leader): Fwd begin leading Lward turn through shoulders at the end of S -Side-Close (now facing 90 degrees to the left); Back begin leading Lward turn through shoulders at the end of S – Side-Close (now facing 90 degrees to the left); Fwd begin leading Lward turn through shoulders at the end of S -Side-Close (now facing 90 degrees to the left); Back begin leading Lward turn through shoulders at the end of S – Side-Close (now facing 90 degrees to the left back to start position) (Follower) Natural Opposite
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO – Reviewed Fwd Ocho technique, 3 rock steps (slow rock; quick rock; cortado) and polished all steps.
Intermediate SALSA: Headloops to Inside/Outside Turns (Leader): HSH connection; CBL footwork beginning with headloop for ladies, continue leading lady to inside UAT (L to L hand hold); leader’s UAT, continue leading lady to inside UAT while doing CBL footwork; repeat as desired; final time: leader’s UAT, keeping L arm low, lead lady to inside turn (but not UAT) until she wraps into a “Hip Catch” (similar to a shoulder catch footwork); leader does side break while checking lady then unwinding her turn to a free spin. (Follower) HSH connection; CBL w/inside UAT; CBL w/inside UAT…leader repeats as desired; final time: CBL w/inside turn (man will not raise arm) – lady continues turning Lward until leader “catches” her hip; R fwd-L replace-R fwd (face leader); free spin on-spot.
Week Ten: 03/24/10 – GUEST WEEK ! Welcome to all of our guests!
Beginner RUMBA (S-Q-Q; S-Q-Q): INTRODUCTION to Shoulder Check – Leaders: (start w/L ft): Fwd Half Box; ”Prep Step” to R side beginning to open embrace - remain parallel to your parnter (S); Back Break L, Replace R leading lady to Left UAT (or “inside”) – this will bring the lady to the Leader’s R side on the next step, Small Side step (or in-place) on L as Leader slides his hand along her elbow-shoulder-left shoulder blade (couple is perpendicular to each other); (as lady begins back break) Fwd & Across R ft (moving in opposite direction of lady), Replace L, Close R to L turning to face the woman (parallel) while raising arm to release lady, REPEAT open-break to shoulder-check as desired; to end the pattern Leader takes side step L raising arm to indicate Lady’s UAT; (Lady’s last UAT) Back R, Replace L, Close R to L; side L (Q), Close R to L (Q). Followers: Back Half Box; ”Prep Step” to L side beginning to open embrace - remain parallel to your parnter (S); Back Break R, Replace L (lady begins Left UAT (or “inside turn”) – this will bring you to the Leader’s R side on the next step); Back break on L; replace on R (beginning to turn R as Leader lifts arm); L fwd turning to face Leader in parallel position (Lady can do “back-stroke” arm styling during Shoulder Check); Leader can REPEAT open-break to shoulder-check as desired; to end the pattern man leads lady to take side step R raising arm to indicate Lady’s UAT Fwd L THEN turn; Replace R (turn), Close L to R; side R (Q), Close L to R (Q).
Beginner Open-Embrace ARGENTINE TANGO - Walking Grapevine (Leaders): Walks (L) to Outside Partner on R (continuing to turn Rward and moving LOD); side L, back R, side L, fwd R, fwd L, close R to L (leading Lady to ”Cross”). Leader choses how many “grapevines” to dance; leader can chose rhythm of all slows, all quicks, or a combination thereof. Followers: Natural Opposite ending with Cross.
October – December: Beginner WEST COAST SWING, Beginner SALSA, Intermediate WALTZ (See Terms & Abbreviations for further explainations)
Week One: 10/14/09
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: Current Steps: (Rhythm: 1 – 2 -3&4 – 5&6) Reminder: Smooth, sliding foot patterns (no bouncing), partners should keep gentle connection through relaxed arms and soft hand holds (no gripping).
Left Side Pass – Leaders: starting w/L ft: back – R ft back (commence turning to L rotating shoulders to allow lady to pass in front) – (slightly off-the-ladies’-slot) L ft back-R ft close-L ft fwd - (now 180 degrees opposite start position – begin ”anchor step”) R ft back-L ft replace-R ft back. Don’t forget to SMILE! Left Side Pass Followers: starting w/R ft fwd - L ft fwd (commence turning to L rotating shoulders to stay parallel to man’s chest) – (stay on-slot) R ft fwd-L ft slides past R in front “crossing”-R ft back – (now 180 degrees opposite start position – begin “anchor step”) Lft back-R ft replace-L ft back. Don’t forget to SMILE!
Beginner SALSA: Same Rhythm throughout Beginner Level: (Q-Q-S; Q-Q-S – 1-2-3/pause ct. 4, 5-6-7/pause ct. 8
Basic: Leaders L ft fwd-R ft replace-L ft close – R ft back heel stays lifted-L ft replace-R ft close. Followers: R ft back heel stays lifted-L ft replace-R ft close – L ft fwd-R ft replace-L ft close.
Side Breaks: Leaders L ft side-R ft replace-L ft close – R ft side-L ft replace-R ft close. Followers: R ft side -L ft replace-R ft close – L ft side-R ft replace-L ft close.
Open Break Underarm Turn (UAT): Leaders L ft back heel stays lifted (release ladies’ back and lower L arm)-R ft replace-L ft close (raise L arm to lead UAT)- R ft back heel stays lifted-L ft replace-R ft close Resume start position in dance hold. Followers: R ft back heel stays lifted move slightly away from leader-L ft replace-R ft close (man will raise R arm; begin to turn upper body to R but do NOT begin turn until count 5)- L ft fwd toward “2 o’clock” then turn-R ft fwd continuing turning R-L ft close face your partner. SMILE!
Intermediate WALTZ: Left & Right Turn Combination – 6M. Men: Start Diagonal Center (DC) 3/8 Fwd L turn ending Against Line of Dance (ALOD); 3/8 Back L turn ending DW; 1/2 Fwd Basic no turn; with R ft 3/8 Fwd R turn ending Against Line of Dance (ALOD); 3/8 Back R turn ending DC; w/R ft. 1/2 Fwd Basic ending LOD (current class alignment). Ladies – Natural Opposite.
Week Two: 10/19/09 (Monday)
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: Under Arm Turn (“U.A.T.”) Leaders: starting w/L ft: back – R ft back (commence turning to R rotating shoulders to allow lady to pass in front; begin to gentle bring L hand up to indicate an UAT positioning L hand to R side and L elbow up to same level as L hand creating the “top half” of a “window’) – (stepping slightly off-the-ladies’-slot) L ft back-R ft close-L ft fwd – (now 180 degrees opposite start position – begin ”anchor step”) R ft back-L ft replace-R ft back. Homework: practice walking back on first two steps! Ladies footwork same as Left Side Pass (see Week One). Homework: practice smooth style glide without bounce or dipping.
Beginner SALSA: Reviewed Steps from Week one – NO new step added, but leader’s learned footwork for a right turn (same as Follower’s): L ft fwd to “2 o’clock” position (transfer weight completely THEN turn clockwise), replace weight to R ft completely THEN continue turning clockwise to face partner, Close L ft to R ft.
Intermediate WALTZ: Added Hand-to-Hand. Half Box w/Leader releasing Lady on back step leading her to UAT; at end of ct 6 Leader has feet closed and has dropped the connected hand down to side indicating end of turn (as he completes the box); facing Line-of-Dance (LOD). L ft fwd, turning L to face partner, side, close. R ft fwd LOD, turning R to Diagonal Wall (DW). L ft fwd, turning L to face partner, side, close. R ft fwd LOD leading lady to free spin, turning step side L ft, continuing turn R step fwd. L ft fwd LOD to “dip”/ “fencing line”/”lunge, R ft replace, L ft side (leading lady to UAT); R ft back (as lady does UAT), L ft replace begin to turn body to face LOD, R ft closes to L . Half Box w/UAT - ladies completing 3 fwd walks; at end of ct 6 Lady is on man’s L side facing LOD. R ft fwd, turning R to face partner, side, close. L ft fwd LOD, turning L to Diagonal Wall (DW). R ft fwd, turning R to face partner, side, close. L ft fwd to free spin, turning step side R, continuing turn step fwd L. R ft fwd LOD to “dip”/ “fencing line”/”lunge, L ft replace, R ft side (prep UAT); L ft Fwd (“2 o’clock” UAT), R ft replace begin to turn body to face leader ALOD, L ft to closed position in leader’s arms . Homework: Dance “in-between” the “steps”
Week Three: 10/28/09
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: “Sugar Push” or “Push Back.” Leaders: starting w/L ft: back – R ft back (slightly smaller to allow follower to come closer toward you as you stay on the track), L ft tight and back behind the R ft- R ft replace weight -L ft fwd (leading followerer away)- (now back in start position – begin ”anchor step”) R ft back-L ft replace-R ft back. Homework: practice relaxing the arms and allowing gravity to keep them low)! Followers: starting w/R ft: fwd- L ft fwd (moving in closer to leader with a relaxed arm) - R ft tightly behind L ft-L ft replace weight -R ft steps back (as man leads you away, back to start position – begin ”anchor step”) L ft behind-R ft replace-L ft replace.
Beginner SALSA: Man’s Wrap (or “Relay”) A continuing amagalmation from last week’s “Ladies Open Break to UAT.” Leaders (after Ladies UAT) draw L arm down to lead follower to another open break while you begin your turn w/your L ft fwd (to the right “2 o’clock”) step THEN turn (while passing ladies R hand from your left hand to your right hand) – R ft replace weight THEN turn – L ft closes to R ft (quickly raising your R arm to lead Ladies’ R UAT)- (as Lady does UAT) R ft back heel stays lifted-L ft replace-R ft close changing hands and resuming start position. Followers: (after your UAT man will lower hand hold to indicate another open break for you) R ft back heel stays lifted move slightly away from leader-L ft replace-R ft close (man will raise your R arm; begin to turn upper body to R but do NOT begin turn until count 5)- L ft fwd toward “2 o’clock” then turn-R ft fwd continuing turning R-L ft close face your partner. SMILE!
Intermediate WALTZ: NO Waltz Class tonight…HALLOWEEN DANCE PARTY!
Week Four: 11/04/09
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: Tuck Turn – Leaders: starting w/L ft: back – R ft back (commence turning to L rotating shoulders to allow lady to come in front) raising left arm up to “almost” UAT height (a slight compression in connection to “prep” her turn - delaying the turn action via a “tuck”) - (slightly off-the-ladies’-slot) L ft back-R ft close-(NOW lead lady to UAT) L ft fwd back onto track – (now 180 degrees opposite start position – begin ”anchor step”) R ft back-L ft replace-R ft back. Followers: starting w/R ft fwd - L ft fwd (commence turning to L rotating shoulders to stay parallel to man’s chest, leader will raise hand slightly below UAT height to “prep” you for a turn – creating a “tuck” with compression in connection) - R ft inplace-L ft in place (NOW man will lead to delayed UAT…quickly turning with) R ft back – (now 180 degrees opposite start position – begin “anchor step”) Lft back-R ft replace-L ft back.
Beginner SALSA: Ladies “Double” Inside Turn – Leaders begin sequence with Open Break Ladies UAT (see above); with left arm leading down to indicate an open position man will dance back break on his left foot as he turns his body right, leading the lady to an inside UAT (creating a “window” with the man’s left elbow and wrist parallel to the floor & the ladies’ right elbow and shoulder parallel to the floor); the leader does the second back break on the right foot continuing to turn to his right (ending 180 degrees from his start position) while leading the lady for 1.5 inside turns; at end of the measure, the leader brings lead arm down to indicate another open break and then leads lady to another right UAT (standard turn – see above). Followers: Sequence begins with Open Break Ladies UAT (see above); man will lead to an open break position then lead the lady to an inside (LEFT) UAT (creating a “window” with the man’s left elbow and wrist parallel to the floor & the ladies’ right elbow and shoulder parallel to the floor); the lady does 1.5 traveling turns (ending 180 degrees from the start position traveling to the other side of the parntership in four steps); at end of the measure, the leader will indicate another open break and then leads lady to another right UAT (standard turn – see above).
Intermediate WALTZ: HOMEWORK: Leaders practice lowering arms from outstretched position as you do a slow forward hesitation with left foot – complete weight change and standing tall and upright; keep right leg behind straight and tight. HOMEWORK: Ladies practice stepping back on right foot (complete weight change), then sliding left foot up the inside right ankle, then calf, then to inside of knee cap; leaving thigh in position, extend the calf/lower leg with pointed toe. Maintain balance on right foot.
Week Five: 11/11/09
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: Opposition Break to Right Side Pass- Leaders: (preceding step: “Ladies UAT - right side” whereby, after lady does UAT, man changes his hand to “Handshake Hold” (HSH) – right hand to right hand and then completes “anchor step.” Leader makes 1/4 turn to left on the track, lunging side w/L ft; R ft back (leading lady to dance forward down track) keeping right hand low (“side pass”); (stepping off-the-ladies’-slot) L ft back-R ft replace-L ft fwd back onto track – (now 180 degrees opposite start position & facing lady - begin ”anchor step”) R ft back-L ft replace-R ft back. Followers: Same as Left Side Pass
Beginner SALSA: Reviewed all steps with added lead/follow and dance technique.
Intermediate WALTZ: Progressive Twinkles to 2-Handhold (2HH) with Develope and Inside UAT. Please read Week Four of dance class steps below for Quarter 3 July – September 2009. Dance 1M and 2M as described. Continuing the foot pattern as outlined in the beginner level Progressive Twinkle, Leaders will create a slight downward compression through their L hand to lead the Lady “away” gently and to have Leaders L hand and Follower’s R hand connect for 2HH. Continue 3M & 4M in 2HH. After 4M, but before 5M, Leader lowers arms from outstretched position to “tight & low” position, while doing a slow forward hesitation with left foot – complete weight change and standing tall and upright; keep right leg behind straight and tight. Leaders be careful to keep arms by side and hands in-front; do not pull up or pull back to “save” the Lady; just be her “rock.” 6M (by the end of ct 1, man leads lady to Inside UAT dancing R ft back, L ft to side (staying on the diagonal ADW), close R ft to L with weight change. End DC – Partnership is only connected through 1HH and is NOT yet in closed position. Followers: Please read Week Four of dance class steps below for Quarter 3 July – September 2009. Dance 1M and 2M as described. Continuing the foot pattern as outlined in the beginner level Progressive Twinkle, Leaders will create a slight downward compression through their L hand to lead the Lady “away” gently and to have Leaders L and Follower’s R hands connect for 2HH. Continue 3M & 4M in 2HH. After 4M, but before 5M Leader will lower arms from outstretched position while leading you to a slow back hesitation on R foot w/complete weight change. Follower may do “Develope” by sliding left foot up the inside right ankle, then calf, then to inside of knee cap; leaving thigh in parallel to floor position, extend the calf/lower leg with pointed toe. Maintain balance on right foot. 6M Inside UAT dancing L ft fwd turning left, R ft to side continuing to turn left, fwd L ft continuin turn to face man ADC with weight on L ft. Partnership is only connected through 1HH and is NOT yet in closed position.
Week Six: 11/18/09
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: Basic Whip – 8 ct step (1-2-3-&-4-5-6-7-&-8) – Leaders: (leading lady fwd) L ft straight back (1) - turning to R, R ft back (off-track) (2) - close (3) – in place (&) – L ft to side “across track” (4) - R ft closes (5) – L ft steps “back on track” (6) (now 180 degrees opposite start position & facing lady - begin ”anchor step”) R ft back (7) – L ft replace (&) – R ft back/inplace (8). Followers: R ft fwd (1) – L ft fwd turning body R toward man (2) – R ft back (3) – L ft closes to R ft (&) – R ft fwd (4) – L ft fwd/side turning to face man (5) – R ft back (6) – “Anchor Step” (7-&-8)
Beginner SALSA: NEW: Rita has “Deep in the Salsa” (musicality) CD from Stephen Tirpak (horn player of John Legend’s band) for sale to help with understanding salsa music better (excellent for all levels of students and a great gift idea)!
Shoulder Check – Leaders: Lead lady into Open Break (Q-Q-S) – start to lead her to an inside turn (see above – Ladies “Double” Inside UAT) with gentle connection on her elbow – sliding up her arm & across her back ending at her L shoulder blade as Leader steps R ft Fwd & Across in “opposition” to Lady (going back) – (begin to lead lady out of turn) Replace L ft – Close R ft to L ft. End in open connection in preparation for another Open Break to Shoulder Check (Repeat sequence twice – end with Open Break to Ladies “Double” Inside UAT (as described in previous weeks). Followers: Open Break ending with R ft fwd turning L (“inside” turn) – Back break on L ft – Replace R ft while being lead to turn R as you move fwd - Back on L ft (facing man) – woman may do any armstyling as long as her L arm remains close to herself so as not to hit the man in the face; “back stroke” suggested) – End in open connection in preparation for another Open Break to Shoulder Check (Repeat sequence twice – end with Open Break to Ladies “Double” Inside UAT (as described in previous weeks).
Intermediate WALTZ: (start facing W): Introduced Ladies Passing Twinkles - Leaders begin with 1M of basic Twinkle releasing man’s L to ladies’ R hand hold – Leaders will dance all fwd steps beginning on their R ft with footwork consistent of the Waltz fwd steps: Heel-Toe, Toe, Toe-Heel as Leader rotates his shoulders (and guides the follower) to the left (end of even-numbered measures Leaders’ R shoulder will be fwd - at the end of odd-numbered measures Leader’s L shoulder will be fwd) – on final “even-numbered” M Man leads Twinkle ending. Followers – begin with 1M of basic Twinkle releasing man’s L to ladies’ R hand hold – Leaders will dance all fwd steps while ladies dance L ft Fwd in Promenade beginning to turn leftward – R ft Side continuing turning leftward – L ft Fwd in Promenade on “even-numbered” measures – ladies dance R ft Fwd in Promenade turning rightward – L ft Side continuing rightward turn – R ft Fwd in Promenade on “odd-numbered” measures with footwork consistent of the Waltz fwd steps: Heel-Toe, Toe, Toe-Heel – on final “even-numbered” M Man leads Twinkle ending.
Week Seven: 11/25/09 – Rita has “Deep in the Salsa” (musicality) CDs from Stephen Tirpak (horn player of John Legend’s band) for sale to help with understanding salsa music better (excellent for all levels of students and a great gift idea)! Every student who has purchased it has said it was amazing!!! Contact Rita 891-8747
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: Reviewed the Basic Whip – 8 ct step (1-2-3-&-4-5-6-7-&-8)
Beginner SALSA: Cross-Body Lead – Leaders Fwd half basic turning L cts 1-2-3 ending quarter turn to L w/feet closed or slightly to side; Small Back step for second half basic continuing to turn L cts 5-6-7 ending 180 degrees opposite starting position. Followers Back R, Replace L, Fwd slightly to R cts 1-2-3 ending perpendicular to the leader still in his R arm embrace; Fwd L (pivoting 180 degrees keeping R ft behind), back R, close L to R cts 5-6-7.
Intermediate WALTZ: Reviewed Ladies Passing Twinkles
Week Eight: 12/02/09 -
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: Learned the Basket Whip – 8 ct step (1-2-3-&-4-5-6-7-&-8) Leaders – starting with a 2-Hand Hold (from sugar push) Leading lady fwd dance L ft straight back (1) - turning to R, R ft back (off-track) (2) with L arm beginning a head loop over passing lady’s head- close (3) – in place (&) – L ft to side “across track” (4) - R ft closes (5) Releasing Lady with your R hand - L ft steps “back on track” (6) (now 180 degrees opposite start position & facing lady - begin ”anchor step”) R ft back (7) – L ft replace (&) – R ft back/in place (8). Followers (2HH): R ft fwd (1) – L ft fwd (2) – R ft fwd (3) – L ft closes to R ft (&) – R ft back – VERY carefully/don’t drop heel immediately (4) – L ft back (5) – R ft back (6) – “Anchor Step” (7-&-8)
Beginner SALSA: Reviewed Cross-Body Lead – then danced it preceeding all previously learned combinations of turns.
Intermediate WALTZ: Learned Left-Right Turn Combination WITH Inside & Outside UAT 6M. Men: Footwork is IDENTICAL to Week 1′s L-R Turn Combination Starting Diagonal Center (DC) - Begin to release Lady at end of 1M leading to inside (L) turn for 2M; Begin to release Lady at end of 4M leading to outside (R) turn for 5M . Ladies – Natural Opposite as in original L-R Turn Combination, but during the 2M turn (Inside = L turn) stepping (L ft) Fwd (turning), Side (turning), Fwd (turning with pivot action to end facing man); During the 5 M (Outside = R turn) stepping (r ft) Fwd (turning), Side (turning), Fwd (turning with pivot action to end facing man); complete step with following action.
Week Nine: 12/09/09 – Rita has ONLY TWO (2) more “Deep in the Salsa” (musicality) CDs from Stephen Tirpak (horn player of John Legend’s band) for sale to help with understanding salsa music better (excellent for all levels of students and a great gift idea)! Every student who has purchased it has said it was amazing!!! Contact Rita 891-8747
Beginner WEST COAST SWING: Learned the Basket Whip with UAT - 8 ct step (1-2-3-&-4-5-6-7-&-8) Leaders - same footwork as the Basket Whip taught last week…as L ft goes across the track to the side (4) begin leading the lady to do a traveling clockwise (outside/right) turn…Leader can lower arm at the end of ct. 6 to have lady do an in-place anchor OR keep the arm up during the anchor step as lady continues turning during 7-&-8. Followers (2HH): - same footwork as the Basket Whip taught last week…as R ft goes back (4) Leader will begin leading a traveling clockwise (outside/right) turn…Leader can lower arm at the end of ct. 6 to have lady do a standard in-place anchor OR keep the arm up during the anchor step as lady continues turning in-place during 7-&-8.
Beginner SALSA: Rueda - Cross-Body Lead to Side-by-Side position. Leaders: 1M CBL releasing ladies back while leading L arm down to your L side; 2M NO turn allowing lady to end by leader’s L side (1 HH); Back Break (L ft)-Replace (R)-Fwd (L) beginning to turn toward partner; “tap” (no weight change) ct 5- turn away to resume side-by-side position ct 6 without weight change – back ct 7 (R ft) (REPEAT back breaks to facing “point” 3 times); begin Back Break-Replace-Fwd turning immediately to face lady leading her to UAT; back (R ft ct 5)-replace-close. Followers: 1M first-half of CBL ; 2M Fwd (L)-Fwd/Pivot overturned-Close to end by leader’s L side (1 HH); Back Break (R ft)-Replace (L)-Fwd (R) beginning to turn toward partner; “tap” (no weight change) ct 5- turn away to resume side-by-side position ct 6 without weight change – back ct 7 (R ft) (REPEATED at Leader’s discretion); begin Back Break-Replace-Fwd turning immediately to face Leader; UAT to close.
Intermediate WALTZ: Alternating Passing Twinkles (start facing W): Leaders begin with 1M of basic Twinkle releasing man’s L to ladies’ R hand hold – Fwd Promenade (R)-Side (L)-Fwd Promenade (R); Fwd (L)-Fwd (R)-Fwd(L)….Leaders & Followers alternate dancing “passing” twinkles and fwd steps: Heel-Toe, Toe, Toe-Heel - on final “even-numbered” M Man leads Twinkle ending. Followers – begin with 1M of basic Twinkle releasing man’s L to ladies’ R hand hold – Fwd (L)-Fwd (R)-Fwd(L); Fwd Promenade (R)-Side (L)-Fwd Promenade (R); ….Leaders & Followers alternate dancing “passing” twinkles and fwd steps: Heel-Toe, Toe, Toe-Heel - on final “even-numbered” M Man leads Twinkle ending.
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DANCE CLASS STEPS FOR Quarter 3 July – September 2009
WELCOME to all the brand new beginners and returning students! Feel free to email me questions about the steps and I will update your notes if needed. As Maui’s ONLY qualified & trained Ballroom & Latin instructor, I am available days & evenings for private lessons (1-4 people) to help you work on improving your knowledge of the Academy dance steps, lead/follow, timing, and more! It’s the QUICKEST way to get better as a dancer and you only take the private lessons when you need them/want to!
808-891-8747 or rita@alohaballroom.com
Week 1:
BEGINNER WALTZ: Timing 1-2-3; 4-5-6. Man starts on L; Ladies’ start on R dancing natural opposite,
Box : Fwd – Side – Close; Back – Side – Close.
Progressive: Fwd – Side – Close; FWD – Side Close.
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: Timing 1-2-3-4-&-1 (“4-&-1″ = “cha-cha-cha”, generally to the side or fwd/back)
Basic: (Men: prep step “1″ to L side, back break R ft, Replace/Fwd L ft; side-together-side (R-L-R; “cha-cha-cha”), fwd break L ft, Replace/Back R ft; side-together-side (L-R-L; “cha-cha-cha”).
Cross Body Lead (CBL) – Man half-basic, fwd break, quarter turn L (leading lady by turning your wrist clockwise), back break quarter turn R (reversing lead above) - half-basic; Woman half-basic, back break, fwd cha-cha-cha, fwd break quarter turn R – half-basic.
Shadow Crossovers – starts w/handshake hold (right to right hand) man does CBL first half, then running fwd steps on second half – break step; Woman does CBL first half, then over turns into shadow position to running fwd steps on second half – break step.
INTERMEDIATE HUSTLE:
Head Loop to Cuddle – Hammerlock & Spin to Wrapped Cuddle: Starts w/Handshake Hold (Man stays on-spot keeping rhythm) – brings lady fwd to UAT ending w/cuddle on man’s right side – lead lady to left side dropping L arm to hammerlock behind her back - lead lady to right side with L on-spot turn while man switches his hands during her turn - raise L arm to release her back into face-to-face position on the slot/track.
Week 2:
BEGINNER WALTZ: Forward/Back Hesitations - One S-L-O-W leader’s Forward step taking up 3 beats of music – then back; body rise only – no toe rise or weight changes); Side/Side Hesitations (same, but to leader’s L side, then R); ladies – natural opposite.
Slow Underarm Turn (4 measures ["M"]) – Man dances the Box step and on the back (R) step releases ladies back and raises his left arm – man continues to dance box in place until lady is in embrace. Lady dances the Box step; on 2nd half she dances forward (L ft) and then goes “underarm” continuing with forward steps to create a circle until the end of the 4th M as she does the side step to meet up with the man.
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: Continued w/Shadow Crossovers (technique); added inside turn on the 2nd (of 3) series; ends with crossover to UAT.
INTERMEDIATE HUSTLE: Refined Cuddle/Hammerlock/Spin (technique). Added Sliding Doors – man leads lady across the track by drawing connecting hand down and both partners “pass” each other changing places with lady “in front” shadow; variation: man alternates passing forward with lady passing behind; ends with UAT while lady is on man’s L side – into CBL.
Week 3:
BEGINNER WALTZ: Added Left Turning Box – 1/4 turns every 3 count measure; leader going forward (not side) beginning to lead through spine/shoulders turning left, then collecting feet underneath, completing the 1/4 turn left. Continue next measure going back (not side) leading through spine/shoulders turning left…continue with same technique above. Lady does natural opposite. Partner on “inside of turn” (woman on 1st & 3rd measures; man on 2nd & 4th measures) will take smaller step as dictated by the man’s sweeping side step!
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: Continued review of previos step combination learned, working additional technique on ladies spins, traveling chasses and turns. Demonstrated Back Spot Turn combination for next week.
INTERMEDIATE HUSTLE: Added Grapevine step, preceeded with CBL and overturned CBL.
Week 4:
BEGINNER WALTZ: Progressive Twinkle (6 M) Man: Starting Fwd - LOD: Half box with 1/8 turn L leading lady to outside position (on man’s R) end DC; Fwd (R ft) 1/4 turn to R fwd-side-close end DW leading lady to outside position (on man’s L); Fwd (L ft) 1/4 turn to L fwd-side-close end DC leading lady to outside position (on man’s R); Fwd (R ft) 1/4 turn to R fwd-side-close end DW leading lady to outside position (on man’s L); Fwd (L ft) 1/4 turn to L fwd-side-close end DC leading lady to outside position (on man’s R); BACK on R ft 1/2 box turning L allowing lady to resume closed position frame. Woman: Natural Opposite; during Twinkle lady will be on “outside” of partnership frame.
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: Back Spot Turn – Fifth Position – Surprise Stop – Shoulder Catch – Crossover w/Foot Taps: Man: 2 CBL to Open Break (2-3), L ft fwd body turning R to closed position frame feet side by side by weight on L ft only (“11″/Cha) – R ft hooks behind (“7″) Ball of foot only (Cha) – “11″ (Cha); keeping rhythm continue the back spot turn (“7/11″) to 2-3-cha-cha-cha (last “cha” man closes R ft to L while lady continues through the upper body rotation to R) – Fifth Position (back on L, replace R) then “surprise hold” facing partnerw/weight on R ft, L ft pointed to the side (cha-cha-cha); repeat fifth position and open partnership during the cha-cha-cha (4-& 1), leading lady to UAT - Shoulder Catch: as lady begins her UAT (on ct. 2) “catch” her L shoulder (she actually will “dance” into it), then lead an inside turn to her L as man dances cha-cha-cha to the R…to be continued next week… Woman: Follow the man’s leads thru the Open Break (2-3), R ft fwd body turning R to closed position frame facing the man (Cha) - feet side by side in “11″ weight only on the L ft (Cha), R ft stays forward toward the center of the partnership turning R in the man’s embrace (Cha); keeping rhythm continue the back spot turn to 2-3-cha-cha-cha (on last “cha” lady continues the upper body rotation ending in her “11″ foot position) – Follow man….Fifth Position, etc.
INTERMEDIATE HUSTLE: Side-By-Side (variations A, B, C) Starting in CBL man guides lady into CBL, Variation A: keeps lady facing him and he dances facing lady, both keeping timing moving toward man’s left and then toward his right (back and forth); Variation B: same as A, but when man moves to his left side-by-side with the lady, he places his L hand higher under her arm and gently lifts up as he leads the lady to do an inside turn while traveling to her L/his R; Variation C: same as A + B, but as lady does her turn, the man does a 1/4 turn L in CBL, now facing a new wall and picks up the lady in a new direction; 4 quarter turns completes a full box for class step. Woman: Practice keeping the basic hustle rhythm throughout the dance, remembering to close the feet on “&” and moving on “1″. Practice turns beginning on ct. 2 and learn to turn “on spot” without traveling.
Week 5:
BEGINNER WALTZ: Continued with the Progressive Twinkle ending in a half-box (back). 2M of Turning Left Box to end facing Wall. Added: Simple Twinkle (2 M) Man: Fwd (leading lady to “promenade position” – partnership in V-position)-side - close; Fwd (in promenade position, then leading partners to face each other)-side-close. End Facing Wall. Woman: Natural Opposite (also in promenade position).
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: …continued from last week….Crossover w/Foot Taps (embellishment): Crossover (2-3) with quick foot tap (no weight change) in-between counts 2 & 3. Three x-overs, then solo spot turns; optional: each partner can continue turning through chasse to side (4-&-1/cha-cha-cha).
INTERMEDIATE HUSTLE: Reviewed all steps with individual attention to each couple as needed.
Week 6 – LUAU DANCE PARTY!
Week 7:
BEGINNER WALTZ: (After Simple Twinkle which ended facing W): Forward Hesitation – Back Half of Left Turning Box (Starts Wall – Ends LOD). NEW: “Change of Place” – Leader: 1M Left Turning Box; 2M UAT bringing L arm down to keep lady to L side; 3M fwd side close turning L, facing woman, 1 HH; 4M Change of Place with Lady’s UAT - stepping fwd on R ft. leading lady to inside turn/UAT slightly overturned into promenade position; 5 M fwd side close overturned to C; 6M “Twinkle Ending” in closed position. Woman: 1M Left Turning Box; 2M UAT fwd/fwd/fwd end on man’s L side; 3M fwd side close turning R, facing man, 1 HH; 4M Change of Place with Lady’s inside UAT - stepping fwd on L ft turning L ending slightly overturned into promenade position; 5 M fwd side close overturned to C; 6M “Twinkle Ending” in closed position.
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: Turkish Towel (section 1) – Leader: open break to handshake hold; lead lady to UAT while extending L hand for 2HH UAT; Turn L during 4-&-1 (cha-cha-cha) bringing lady to shadow position behindthe leader; lead lady to break fwd as leader breaks directly back and cha-cha-chas ”in place” or with very small foot steps, allowing the lady to pass from L to R side and then back to L side one more time; when leading her to final R side shadow, man releases L hand and draws lady forward with R HH lead allowing her to free spin (traveling) in front of him…to be continued next week! Woman: open break to handshake hold then being lead to UAT connecting with man’s extended L hand for 2HH UAT; at end of 4-&-1 (cha-cha-cha) lady is in shadow position behindthe leader; lady breaks fwd as leader breaks directly back and then she cha-cha-chas to each side behind the man, passing from L to R side and then back to L side one more time; when finishing her R side shadow, man releases L hand and draws lady forward with R HH leading her to free spin (traveling) in front of him; woman ends facing man in open (no hand hold) position…to be continued next week!
INTERMEDIATE HUSTLE: Roll-In Variations: A. Free-Spin & B. Side Dip (next week: C. Cuddle) These first two variations start with throw-out from CBL, then change of place with hand change (lady is now on man’s R side) A. Free Spin – Man leads lady toward him to do an inside turn with a “hands-free” traveling spin toward him (man must travel to his left proportionately to the ladies’ travel); leader then picks up lady in CBL. B. Side Dip – Man leads lady toward him to do an inside turn with a 1 HH connection as he steps fwd onto her track to block her. Key connection points for safety: Connect side-to-side especially at shoulder and hip; a “patty-cake” hand hold is an additional “press” to keep the partnership in the cuddle frame. Men DO NOT pull in lady with R arm! Additional Note: Both partners need to be solid in their core and not “break” through the middle. Man (with straight-body) lunges side to L while lady is up against his R side of body; if keeping strict timing, man returns weight to R foot on ct. 2 so lady can “roll-out” on cts. 2 & 3. Leader can chose to hold the dip for whatever # of counts he’d like.
Week 8:
BEGINNER WALTZ: Review and refine all steps – Everyone’s getting better with long sweeping side steps and closing their feet on 3! YEAH!
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: Continued after traveling free-spin ending of “Turkish Towel” (with short and brief introduction of the “Lasso”). “Turkish Towel”: Open Break to Ladies UAT – Man: instead of back break on R foot during ladies’ turn, break to the R side (“Opposition”). On ct 3 (as lady is replacing her weight to R ft), Man begins to do continuous L turns on-spot with weight changes to the standard dance rhythm; i.e., 4-&-5-6-7-8-&-1 (ending on L ft), first leading the lady around him to dance forward walks in a circular fashion around him to the R. The man first leads the lady in a “Lasso” with his left hand doing a head loop over his head, then the leader brings the ladies hand to his waist while he continues to turn on-spot. Then the leader steps back on their R ft on ct 2 & replaces weight on L ft on ct 3 leading the lady to do an inside turn on cts 2-3, then (for ease of step ending at this time) both partners continue side-together-side to a crossover, then UAT of the leader’s choice.
INTERMEIDATE HUSTLE: Reviewed Steps for clarity.
Week 9:
BEGINNER WALTZ: Left & Right Turn Combination – 6M. Men: Start Diagonal Center (DC) 3/8 Fwd L turn ending Against Line of Dance (ALOD); 3/8 Back L turn ending DW; 1/2 Fwd Basic no turn; with R ft 3/8 Fwd R turn ending Against Line of Dance (ALOD); 3/8 Back R turn ending DC; w/R ft. 1/2 Fwd Basic ending LOD (current class alignment). Ladies – Natural Opposite.
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: “Lasso” Man: Open or Fwd Break leading lady to UAT - instead of man’s back break, do side break (Opposition Break) to R (2-3) beginning to turn upper body to left; Leading lady to walk around you with your L hand over your head (4-&-1) continue to dance “on-spot” left turns bringing the ladies hand to your waist (as she turns in opposite direction with your arms up above your waist so she doesn’t catch your arm) for 2-3-4-&-1 lowering L arm at the end to “embrace” the follower’s R hand; men back break on 2-3 leading lady to do a sharp inside turn on the 3, then in open parallel position both partners dance the 4-&-1 to the side (any simple ending at this point can be implemented by leader). Ladies: Back Break to UAT continuing to dance fwd walks rhythmically around man turning “on spot” with your right hand connection to his waist; the man will connect with R hand leading you to continue stepping forward on your L ft, then doing a sharp inside (L) UAT on your R ft ending in open parallel position both partners dance the 4-&-1 to the side (man choses ending at this point).
INTERMEDIATE HUSTLE: Finished Roll-in Series with “Cuddle” after “Side Dip” whereby after the “dip,” Leaders roll the lady back out again on 2-3. Leaders then step OFF the ladies’ track and roll her back into a cuddle on man’s L side connecting with 2HH. Lady will do her “&-1″ in place and then the man will lead his L arm up to bring the lady out to a 2HH face to face (beginner level hold).
Week 10:
BEGINNER WALTZ: Fallaway Twinkle (Starts W, Ends W) 1M Twinkle; man stays in promenade position dancing fwd-fwd-close; staying in Promenade Position dancing back-back-close; 4M Twinkle ending. OPTIONAL: Ronde at beginning of 3M before dancing ct 1. Ladies: Natural Opposite.
INTERMEDIATE CHA-CHA: Triple Chas w/Alternating Hand to Hand (HSH) – after ladies’ inside UAT, Man moves forward into triple cha’s first switching hand hold to HSH for 1M, Switch L2L for 2M, HSH for 3M; Triple Chas Back 1M HSH, L2L for 2M, HSH for 3M. Man chooses ending of step. Ladies: Natural Opposite.
INTERMEDIATE HUSTLE: Right Side Tuck Turn: CBL to Throwout w/HSH; Leader stays in place, but off ladies’ track – lead lady to inside turn w/tuck to R turns following rhythm 3-&-1-2-3 (leaders’ move back on track facing lady at end). Ladies do a traveling chasse R turn.
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PREVIOUS DANCE STEPS:Quarter 2 April – June 2009
Week 1: Beginner Cha-Cha (1-2-3-4-&-1; 4-&-1 = cha-cha-cha) * In-Place Basic * Side Basic * Outside Partner
Beginner Hustle (&-1-2-3 – 4 weight changes in 3 beats) * Change of Place (2 hand hold – Right turn)
Intermediate Tango (varying rhythms) Reviewed Open Fan S-S-Q-Q-S x 2 * Double Corte with 1/4 turn pivots (Q-Q-S-S-Q-Q-S-S-Q-Q-S)
Week 2: Beginner Cha-Cha: Fifth Position x 2 – Crossover x 3 – Ladies Underarm Turn.
Beginner Hustle: Alternating Ladies Underarm Turns (Wrap) and Man’s Underarm Turns (Wrap).
Intermediate Tango: Promenade Check (S-Q-Q-S-Q-n-Q) starts W ends W in promenade position.
Week 3: Beginner Cha-Cha: Review of Week 1 & 2 – integrating more technique.
Beginner Hustle: (Side-to-Side) Cuddle & Traveling Cuddle
Intermediate Tango: Back Rocks (S-S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S) starts W ends DC; Right Side Fans (Q-Q-S-S-Q-Q-S-S-Q-Q-S) starts DC ends LOD.
Week 4: Beginner Cha-Cha: Open Break with UAT (underarm turn); Forward/Back Basic with man’s relay (hand-pass right turn) and woman’s UAT.
Beginner Hustle: Worked on Side-to-Side Cuddle – added Traveling Cuddle with woman exiting on man’s left side with an UAT.
Intermediate Tango: Reviewed all the steps working on technique.
Week 5: Beginner Cha-Cha: Double Crossover Rocks to Single Crossover with Solo/Spot Turn
Beginner Hustle: Open UAT; Hesitation
Intermediate Tango: Check with Pivot Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S
Week 6: Beginner Cha-Cha: Reviewed Double Crossover Rocks w/Solo Spot Turn; added Chase Turns (1/2 turns, then full turns).
Beginner Hustle: Reviewed Hesitation; added Left Arm Head Loop and NEW “Basic” = Cross Body Lead (man does NOT change weight on “+1″!
Intermediate Tango: Reviewed Check with Pivots
Week 7: Beginner Cha-Cha: Cuddle and Cuddle w/Travel Step (open break to handshake hold bringing lady to man’s right side; alternating ladies position from right side to left; when lady is on left side, man travels forward; end step with lady on right side, then turning her to the right as man does side basic to the right).
Beginner Hustle: Reviewed Crossbody Lead (man holds on +1) and Left Arm Head Loop – created a combination for class.
Intermediate Tango: “Snake” S-S-S-S-S-S-Q-Q-S (Start WALL: promenade step; man begins right promenade pivot; man takes back step fanning himself and lady into promenade parternship position; repeat steps 2 & 3; forward; side; draw; End LOD)
Week 8: Beginner Cha-Cha: Added Shoulder Check
Beginner Hustle: Right Arm Head Loop
Intermediate Tango: Reviewed all steps
Week 9: Beginner Cha-Cha: CrossBody Lead (General Instruction: man does left quarter turns after the forward break and back breaks of a basic; lady does forward then side basic after the man changes each direction).
Beginner Hustle: Reviewed all steps especially the Right Arm Head Loop
Intermediate Tango: Fallaway (S-Q-Q-S-Q-n-Q)
Week 10: Beginner Cha-Cha: Alternating UAT (Women’s/Men’s)
Beginner Hustle: “J-Hook”
Intermediate Tango: Reverse Turn w/Flick
Week 11: Beginner Cha-Cha: Introduced Triple Cha’s
Beginner Hustle: CBL w/Inside UAT
Intermediate Tango: Reviewed Patterns – worked on Technique.
Week 12: Beginner Cha-Cha: Technique on Triple Chas
Beginner Hustle: Reviewed J-Hook & CBLw/Inside UAT
Intermediate Tango: Continuous Left Rock Turns (Q-Q-S-Q-Q-Q-Q-Q-Q-S-Q-Q-S)
