1. Introduction
Introduction
American and International Style ballroom dancing are two different styles of partner dancing that are popular in the United States. Both styles have unique characteristics that set them apart from one another. In this article, we will explore the differences between American and International Style ballroom dancing, so that dancers can make an informed decision when deciding which style to pursue.
a. Definition of American and International Style Ballroom Dancing
Definition of American and International Style Ballroom Dancing
American Style Ballroom Dancing is a form of partnered dancing that is popular in the United States. It includes five dances: the Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz, and Quickstep. These dances are danced in a smooth, flowing manner and emphasize rise and fall, body contact, and a frame between the two partners.
International Style Ballroom Dancing is a form of partnered dancing that is popular in the United States. It includes five dances: the Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz, and Quickstep. These dances are danced in a more linear and structured manner, with a focus on technique and precision. Additionally, International Style Ballroom Dancing includes two additional dances, the Samba and the Cha Cha.
2. History of American and International Style Ballroom Dancing
History of American and International Style Ballroom Dancing
American style ballroom dancing originated in the early 1900s, when the first ballroom dance competitions were held in the United States. The dances that were included in these competitions were mainly the waltz, the two-step, and the foxtrot. Over time, other dances were added, such as the tango, the cha-cha, the rumba, and the swing.
International style ballroom dancing has its roots in England, where it was developed in the 1920s. The dances that were included in these competitions were mainly the waltz, the tango, the foxtrot, the quickstep, and the Viennese waltz.
American Style Ballroom Dancing
American style ballroom dancing is characterized by quick, sharp movements and an emphasis on improvisation. It is often performed to upbeat music, such as jazz or swing. American style ballroom dancing is typically danced in a closed position, which means that the dancers are in close contact with each other.
International Style Ballroom Dancing
International style ballroom dancing is characterized by smooth, graceful movements and an emphasis on technique. It is often performed to slower, more romantic music, such as classical or Latin. International style ballroom dancing is typically danced in an open position, which means that the dancers are further apart from each other.
3. Differences in Music
3. Differences in Music
American style ballroom dancing is typically set to the music of the Big Band Era, such as swing, foxtrot, and waltz. International style ballroom dancing is set to modern music, including Latin and Rhythm, as well as a variety of other genres.
American style ballroom dancing is typically faster and more upbeat than international style. The tempo of the music is usually faster and the steps are more energetic. The music for international style ballroom dancing is usually slower and more romantic. The steps are usually more intricate and the music is usually more graceful.
The music for American style ballroom dancing is typically more accessible than the music for international style. American style ballroom dancing is often seen in movies, television shows, and other popular media, which helps to make it more widely known. International style ballroom dancing is not as widely known, since it is not seen as often in the media.
American Style Music
American style ballroom dancing is typically set to the music of the Big Band Era, such as swing, foxtrot, and waltz.
International Style Music
International style ballroom dancing is set to modern music, including Latin and Rhythm, as well as a variety of other genres.
4. Differences in Technique
Differences in Technique
American style ballroom dancing and international style ballroom dancing have some major differences in technique.
American Style
American style ballroom dancing is characterized by a more “open” frame, with the couple’s arms and hands in a higher and more visible position. This style also tends to be more “loose” and “flowing”, with a focus on smooth, continuous movements and transitions. American style also features more intricate footwork and a greater emphasis on improvisation and personal expression.
International Style
In contrast, international style ballroom dancing is characterized by a more “closed” frame, with the couple’s arms and hands in a lower and less visible position. This style also tends to be more “rigid” and “controlled”, with a focus on precise, sharp movements and transitions. International style also features more complex footwork and a greater emphasis on technique and accuracy.
5. Differences in Dances
5. Differences in Dances
American Style Ballroom Dancing is characterized by its smooth, graceful movements and is danced to slower music. The dances are usually composed of a series of patterns that are repeated and combined in different ways. The dances include the Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep, and the American Style Rumba.
International Style Ballroom Dancing is characterized by its more energetic movements and is danced to faster music. The dances are composed of a variety of steps that are combined in different ways. The dances include the Waltz, Quickstep, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, and the International Style Rumba.
The American Style Rumba is a slower, more romantic dance than the International Style Rumba, which is more energetic and upbeat. The American Style Tango is smoother and slower than the International Style Tango, which is more complex and faster. The American Style Waltz is slower and more graceful than the International Style Waltz, which is more upbeat and energetic.
American Style Ballroom Dances:
– Waltz
– Foxtrot
– Tango
– Viennese Waltz
– Quickstep
– American Style Rumba
International Style Ballroom Dances:
– Waltz
– Quickstep
– Tango
– Foxtrot
– Viennese Waltz
– International Style Rumba
6. Differences in Costuming
Differences in Costuming
When it comes to costuming, there is a stark difference between American and International style ballroom dancing in the United States. American style ballroom dancers typically wear brightly colored, flashy costumes, often with sequins and fringe. These costumes are designed to draw the attention of the audience and to show off the dancer’s skill and style.
International style ballroom dancers, on the other hand, wear more conservative, elegant costumes that focus on movement and subtlety. These costumes are often made of light fabrics that allow for maximum movement, and they are usually black, white or neutral colors. While the costumes may be less flashy, they emphasize the grace and skill of the dancers.
Men’s Costumes
American style male ballroom dancers often wear brightly colored shirts and pants, and sometimes even vests and hats. The costumes are designed to be eye-catching and to draw attention to the dancer’s skill and style.
International style male ballroom dancers typically wear black or white tuxedos or suits. These costumes are designed to be elegant and subtle, and to emphasize the dancer’s grace and skill.
Women’s Costumes
American style female ballroom dancers often wear brightly colored dresses with sequins and fringe. These costumes are designed to be flashy and to draw the attention of the audience.
International style female ballroom dancers typically wear elegant, light-colored dresses that emphasize movement. These costumes are often black, white or neutral in color, and are designed to be subtle and to emphasize the dancer’s grace and skill.
7. Differences in Scoring
Differences in Scoring
American style ballroom dancing is scored differently than international style ballroom dancing. In American style ballroom dancing, the judges award points based on the technique, presentation, and overall performance of the dancers. The judges are looking for the couple to demonstrate a smooth, graceful, and well-executed performance.
In international style ballroom dancing, the judges award points based on the technique, presentation, and overall performance of the couple, as well as the interpretation of the music. The judges are looking for the couple to demonstrate a precise, intricate, and well-executed performance.
American Style Ballroom Dancing
In American style ballroom dancing, the judges award points on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest score. The judges look for technique, presentation, and overall performance when awarding points.
International Style Ballroom Dancing
In international style ballroom dancing, the judges award points on a scale of 1-6, with 6 being the highest score. The judges look for technique, presentation, interpretation of the music, and overall performance when awarding points.
8. Conclusion
Conclusion
American and International style ballroom dancing are two of the most popular forms of ballroom dancing in the United States. Both styles have their own unique techniques and characteristics, and both are enjoyed by dancers of all ages and skill levels. While American style dancing is more traditional and relaxed, International style dancing is more intricate and energetic.
No matter what style of ballroom dancing you choose, it is important to remember that the key is to have fun and enjoy the music and the movement. Whether you choose to dance American or International style, you can be sure that you will have an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Takeaways
• American and International style ballroom dancing are two of the most popular forms of ballroom dancing in the United States.
• American style is more traditional and relaxed, while International style is more intricate and energetic.
• The key to a successful ballroom dancing experience is to have fun and enjoy the music and the movement.
