Thursday, October 15, 2009

Never Waltz Like You Did Before

By Denver Lee

The waltz came on to the English ballroom scene in the early 1800?s. A storm of religious, political and social resistance soon followed as the suggestive nature of the dance came under scrutiny. After all, the waltz was the first dance where the male actually held the woman closely to the body as he led his partner through the flowing waltz steps.

In a successful Waltz, the movements of each dancer compliment the other. The woman always mirrors the male?s leading steps. The male leads the woman through boldly romantic steps, which explains why the dance has become so popular with brides or couples who want to share a memorable dance.

The waltz stems from a 17th century country folk dance developed in Austria and Bulgaria. Versions of the dance began to spread throughout Europe in the middle of the 18th century. These waltz?s original country folk dance roots explained the upbeat tempo of the lively dance. Interest in the Viennese Waltz peaked in the Strauss era in the 1800?s.

The waltz arrived in the U.S. circa 1830. American composers slowed the pace and encouraged longer gliding steps. This new style was named the Boston. Eventually the Boston?s popularity faded but was replaced by the American Style Waltz.

The English were busily perfecting their version of the International Slow waltz. English composers encouraged longer steps that spanned the floor. Meanwhile, the American Style Waltz had become recognizable for its more flamboyant, theatrical movements so the tow versions were distinctly different.

The Viennese Waltz, the International Waltz and the American Style Waltz are all popular dances. Each Waltz has unique attributes. However, all Waltzes are progressive with long, flowing movements continuous turns and featuring the dancer?s rise and fall actions delivered in the a well-postured and perfectly framed position.

The American Waltz is performed to a slow rhythm and is accentuated with theatrical spins and dramatic under arm moves. The American Waltz must always be fluid and melodic.

The International Slow Waltz consists of long, flowing moves, which are highlighted by many turns. The slow tempo enables powerful movements by both dancers while maintaining that perfect form.

The Viennese Waltz is faster than its counterparts. Johann Strauss had a major influence on upbeat tempo of the Viennese Waltz. Strauss advocated the uses of an orchestra without percussion instruments. The dance steps are short and powerful.

Whichever waltz you prefer, the position of the frame and the head are similar to all three varieties. This proper positioning allows for the close quarter movements and glorious intimacy unique to a properly performed waltz.

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