1. Introduction
Introduction
Ballroom dancing is an exciting and popular form of partner dance that has been around for centuries. It is a social dance that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, and is often seen as a way to express emotion and connection between two people. The music used for ballroom dancing can vary greatly, as there are many different genres that can be used to create a unique and enjoyable experience. This article will explore the various types of ballroom dancing music genres in the United States.
a. Definition of ballroom dancing
Definition of Ballroom Dancing
Ballroom dancing is a type of partner dancing that has been popular in the United States since the early 1900s. It is characterized by its graceful, flowing movements and is typically danced to music in 4/4 time. Ballroom dancing includes a variety of styles, including the Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Tango, and Viennese Waltz. The dances are performed in a variety of settings, including social gatherings, competitions, and performances.
b. Overview of different ballroom dancing music genres in the United States
Overview of Different Ballroom Dancing Music Genres in the United States
The United States is home to a wide variety of ballroom dancing music genres, from classical to contemporary. Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular genres of ballroom dancing music in the US.
Classical
Classical ballroom dancing music includes traditional waltzes, polkas, and mazurkas. This type of music is often used in formal events such as weddings and balls.
Contemporary
Contemporary ballroom dancing music includes a variety of styles, such as swing, Latin, and hip-hop. This type of music is often used in social dances, such as nightclubs and dance parties.
Country
Country ballroom dancing music includes popular genres such as country-western and line dancing. This type of music is often used in country-themed events and dances.
Jazz
Jazz ballroom dancing music includes a variety of styles, such as bebop, swing, and fusion. This type of music is often used in jazz clubs and other jazz-themed events.
Pop
Pop ballroom dancing music includes popular genres such as pop, rock, and hip-hop. This type of music is often used in social dances, such as nightclubs and dance parties.
2. Waltz
Waltz
The Waltz is one of the most popular ballroom dancing music genres in the United States. It is a slow, romantic dance where couples glide across the dance floor in a graceful and elegant manner. The music is usually in 3/4 time and has a strong beat. Waltz music is often used for traditional ballroom dancing competitions, but it can also be used for more modern variations such as the Viennese Waltz. Popular songs for waltzing include “The Blue Danube” by Johann Strauss and “The Waltz of the Flowers” from Tchaikovsky’s ballet, The Nutcracker.
a. History of the waltz
History of the Waltz
The waltz is a ballroom dance that originated in Austria and Germany in the late 18th century. It is a smooth, progressive dance in 3/4 time, and is usually performed to music in a moderate tempo. The waltz is characterized by its graceful, sweeping movements and romantic, intimate atmosphere.
The waltz was originally a peasant dance, and was first performed in the countryside of Germany and Austria. It was brought to the upper classes of Europe in the 19th century, and quickly became popular among the social elite. The waltz was eventually introduced to the United States in the early 20th century, and has since become a staple of the ballroom dance scene.
Modern Waltz
Modern waltz is characterized by its graceful, sweeping movements and romantic, intimate atmosphere. It is danced to a variety of American and international music, including pop, classical, and country. It is typically performed in a closed position, with the partners facing each other. The waltz is a popular choice for wedding dances, and is often used to set the mood for a romantic evening.
b. Popular waltz tunes in the United States
Popular Waltz Tunes in the United States
The waltz is a popular ballroom dancing genre in the United States, with a number of classic tunes that are regularly played at dances. Popular waltz tunes in the United States include:
The Blue Danube
The Blue Danube is a classic waltz composed by Johann Strauss II in 1866. It has been featured in a number of films, including 2001: A Space Odyssey and The Sound of Music.
The Skater’s Waltz
The Skater’s Waltz is a popular waltz composed by Émile Waldteufel in 1882. It is often played during ice skating competitions.
The Emperor Waltz
The Emperor Waltz is another popular waltz composed by Johann Strauss II in 1889. It is often played at formal dances and weddings.
The Merry Widow Waltz
The Merry Widow Waltz is a popular waltz composed by Franz Lehár in 1905. It is often played at Viennese balls and is considered to be a romantic classic.
3. Foxtrot
Foxtrot
The Foxtrot is a smooth, progressive dance that originated in the early 1900s. It is characterized by its smooth, gliding steps and is often considered one of the most elegant ballroom dances. The Foxtrot is danced to music in 4/4 time, with a moderate tempo of 30-34 bars per minute.
The Foxtrot is composed of two parts: the “slow” Foxtrot and the “quick” Foxtrot. The slow Foxtrot is a slower, more relaxed version of the Foxtrot, and is often used for social dances. The quick Foxtrot is a faster, more energetic version of the Foxtrot, and is often used for competitive ballroom dancing.
Characteristics
The Foxtrot is a smooth, progressive dance that is characterized by its long, gliding steps. The Foxtrot is typically danced in a closed position, with the partners facing each other. The dance is composed of two parts: the slow Foxtrot and the quick Foxtrot. The slow Foxtrot is a slower, more relaxed version of the Foxtrot, and the quick Foxtrot is a faster, more energetic version of the Foxtrot.
Music
The Foxtrot is danced to music in 4/4 time, with a moderate tempo of 30-34 bars per minute. The music for the Foxtrot is typically composed in a range of styles, including jazz, swing, and Latin.
a. History of the foxtrot
History of the Foxtrot
The Foxtrot is an American dance that originated in the early 1900s. It was created by vaudeville actor Harry Fox and was first seen in the Broadway musical “Watch Your Step”. The Foxtrot is a smooth, progressive dance that is characterized by long, continuous flowing movements across the dance floor. It is considered one of the most popular ballroom dances in the United States.
The Foxtrot is a combination of two dances, the Two Step and the One Step. The Two Step was a popular dance of the late 19th century and the One Step was a new dance introduced in the early 20th century. The Foxtrot combines elements of both of these dances and is considered the first true ballroom dance.
The Foxtrot has evolved over the years to become a more intricate and complex dance. It is now danced in a variety of styles, from the traditional Foxtrot to the more modern Smooth Foxtrot. It is also danced in a variety of rhythms, from the slow and elegant Waltz to the more energetic Swing. The Foxtrot is a popular dance for both social and competitive ballroom dancing.
b. Popular foxtrot tunes in the United States
Popular Foxtrot Tunes in the United States
The foxtrot is a popular ballroom dance that originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is known for its smooth, gliding steps and graceful movements. As such, it has become a staple of the American ballroom dancing scene. Here are some of the most popular foxtrot tunes in the United States:
1. “Cheek to Cheek” by Irving Berlin
This classic Irving Berlin song from the 1930s is a perfect fit for the foxtrot. Its slow, romantic tempo and lighthearted lyrics make it a great choice for a romantic night of dancing.
2. “The Way You Look Tonight” by Fred Astaire
This classic Fred Astaire song from the 1936 film “Swing Time” is a great choice for a foxtrot. Its slow tempo and romantic lyrics make it perfect for a romantic night of dancing.
3. “I Won’t Dance” by Frank Sinatra
This classic Frank Sinatra song from the 1950s is a great choice for a foxtrot. Its slow tempo and lighthearted lyrics make it perfect for a night of dancing.
4. “It Had to Be You” by Harry Connick Jr.
This classic Harry Connick Jr. song from the 1990s is a great choice for a foxtrot. Its slow tempo and romantic lyrics make it perfect for a romantic night of dancing.
4. Tango
Tango
Tango is a passionate and romantic dance that originated in Argentina and Uruguay. It is a form of social dance that was popularized in the early 20th century and has become a staple of the ballroom dancing scene in the United States. Tango is generally considered to be a slower-paced dance than some of the other ballroom dances, and it is often characterized by dramatic pauses, intricate footwork, and dramatic arm and body movements.
Tango music is usually in a 4/4 time signature and has a slower tempo than many other ballroom dances. The music is often characterized by dramatic pauses and a dramatic contrast between the fast and slow sections. The style of music is usually a combination of tango, milonga, and waltz.
Tango is usually danced to Latin or Argentine music, but it can also be danced to jazz, classical, and contemporary music. The most popular tango music in the United States is usually from the 1930s and 1940s, although some modern tango music is becoming more popular.
Notable Tango Songs
Some of the most popular tango songs in the United States include:
• “Por Una Cabeza” by Carlos Gardel
• “Libertango” by Astor Piazzolla
• “El Choclo” by Angel Villoldo
• “La Cumparsita” by Gerardo Matos Rodriguez
• “La Paloma” by Sebastian Yradier
a. History of the tango
History of the Tango
The tango is a passionate and sensual dance that originated in Argentina and Uruguay in the late 19th century. It is believed to have been created by a combination of African and European influences. The tango is traditionally composed of two people dancing together in a close embrace, with the man leading and the woman following.
The tango is a popular ballroom dance in the United States and is danced in a variety of styles including Argentine tango, American tango, and International tango. It is characterized by its dramatic and passionate movements, as well as its intricate footwork and turns.
Tango Music
The music for the tango is typically fast-paced and consists of two or four beats per measure. It is usually played on the piano or accordion and is often accompanied by a bandoneon, a type of concertina. Popular tango music artists include Carlos Gardel, Julio Sosa, and Astor Piazzolla.
b. Popular tango tunes in the United States
Popular Tango Tunes in the United States
Tango music is a popular genre of ballroom dancing music in the United States. Tango music is characterized by its dramatic and passionate sound, and is often accompanied by a fast-paced dance. Popular tango tunes in the United States include “El Choclo,” “La Cumparsita,” and “El Choclo (Vals).”
El Choclo
“El Choclo” is a popular tango song composed by Angel Villoldo in 1903. It is considered one of the most popular tangos of all time and is often used in ballroom dancing competitions. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Carlos Gardel and Astor Piazzolla.
La Cumparsita
“La Cumparsita” is a tango song composed by Gerardo Matos Rodríguez in 1917. It is considered one of the most iconic tangos of all time and is often used in ballroom dancing competitions. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Carlos Gardel and Astor Piazzolla.
El Choclo (Vals)
“El Choclo (Vals)” is a popular tango waltz composed by Angel Villoldo in 1903. It is considered one of the most popular tango waltzes of all time and is often used in ballroom dancing competitions. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Carlos Gardel and Astor Piazzolla.
5. Quickstep
Quickstep
Quickstep is the most upbeat and energetic of the ballroom dances. It originated in the 1920s in the United States and is still popular today. Quickstep is a fast-paced dance with a lot of quick steps and turns. It is a mix of both Latin and Standard steps.
The music for Quickstep is fast-paced and usually has a 4/4 time signature. It is often played with a swing or jazz feel. The tempo is usually around 50-60 beats per minute. Some popular Quickstep songs include “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” by Duke Ellington, “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Irving Berlin, and “I Got Rhythm” by George Gershwin.
Characteristics
Quickstep is a fast-paced dance which requires a lot of energy and stamina. It is characterized by quick steps, sharp turns, and syncopated rhythms. The steps are usually done in a straight line or a circle.
Quickstep is a very popular dance in the United States and is often seen in competitive ballroom dancing competitions. It is also a popular choice for wedding dances and other special occasions.
a. History of the quickstep
History of the Quickstep
The Quickstep is a fast-paced, energetic dance that is often performed to lively music. It originated in the 1920s in England, and became popular in the United States in the 1930s. The Quickstep is a combination of old-fashioned Foxtrot and Charleston steps, and is characterized by its quick and lively tempo.
The Quickstep is a very popular dance in the United States, and is often performed in competitive ballroom dance competitions. It is known for its intricate footwork and fast-paced steps, and is always a crowd favorite. The Quickstep is also often used in television shows and movies, and is a popular choice for wedding dances.
Music Genres for the Quickstep
The Quickstep is typically danced to upbeat swing or big band music, such as Glenn Miller’s “In the Mood” or Benny Goodman’s “Sing, Sing, Sing”. It can also be danced to Latin music, such as the cha-cha or salsa.
b. Popular quickstep tunes in the United States
Popular Quickstep Tunes in the United States
The Quickstep is a lively and upbeat dance style, often featuring a combination of hops, runs, and chasses. It is a favorite among ballroom dancers in the United States, with popular tunes including:
“Puttin’ on the Ritz”
This classic Irving Berlin tune is a mainstay of the Quickstep repertoire. It was first recorded by Harry Richman in 1929, and has been covered by a variety of artists since then.
“Cheek to Cheek”
Another Irving Berlin favorite, this song was first recorded by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in the 1935 film Top Hat. It has since been covered by a variety of artists, including Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Frank Sinatra.
“Sing, Sing, Sing”
This Benny Goodman tune is a popular choice for Quickstep dancers. It was first recorded in 1936, and has been covered by a variety of artists since then.
“Let’s Face the Music and Dance”
This Irving Berlin tune was first recorded by Fred Astaire in 1936. It has since been covered by a variety of artists, including Nat King Cole and Michael Bublé.
6. Viennese Waltz
Viennese Waltz
The Viennese Waltz is the oldest of the ballroom dances. It originated in Vienna, Austria in the late 1700s and is still popular today. It is a fast and flowing dance that is characterized by its graceful and elegant turns, spins, and glides. The Viennese Waltz is danced in 3/4 time and is typically performed to classical music.
Steps
The Viennese Waltz is a rotary dance, meaning the dancers rotate around each other in a circular motion. The dance consists of two basic steps: the Natural Turn and the Reverse Turn. The Natural Turn is a simple clockwise rotation, while the Reverse Turn is a counterclockwise rotation. The dancers move around each other in a continuous, smooth flow, executing a series of turns and spins.
Music
The Viennese Waltz is typically performed to classical music, such as Strauss waltzes, or to light pop music. The tempo of the music should be around 180 beats per minute. The music should be light and airy, with a strong beat that allows the dancers to move gracefully and quickly.
a. History of the Viennese waltz
History of the Viennese Waltz
The Viennese waltz is a traditional ballroom dance originating from Vienna, Austria in the late 1700s. It is a fast-paced, romantic dance in 3/4 time, and is the oldest of the ballroom dances. The Viennese waltz is characterized by its continuous, circular rotations and graceful, sweeping movements.
The dance was popularized in the early 19th century by Johann Strauss I, a well-known composer from Vienna. Strauss composed many waltzes, including the famous “Blue Danube Waltz” in 1867. His works helped to spread the popularity of the Viennese waltz throughout Europe and the United States.
In the United States, the Viennese waltz was first introduced in the late 1800s. It quickly became a popular dance among the social elite, and it was often seen at grand balls and other formal events. By the 1920s, the dance had become a staple of the ballroom dancing scene in the United States.
Modern Viennese Waltz
Today, the Viennese waltz is still a popular dance in the United States. It is often seen in competitive ballroom dancing competitions and is frequently performed at weddings and other special occasions. The modern Viennese waltz is characterized by its graceful movements and sweeping rotations, and it is considered to be one of the most romantic of all ballroom dances.
b. Popular Viennese waltz tunes in the United States
Popular Viennese Waltz Tunes in the United States
Viennese waltz is a traditional ballroom dance that originated in Austria in the 19th century. It is a graceful dance characterized by a three-beat rhythm and a one-two-three pattern of steps. In the United States, popular Viennese waltz tunes include “The Blue Danube” by Johann Strauss, “The Skater’s Waltz” by Emile Waldteufel, “The Merry Widow Waltz” by Franz Lehar, “The Emperor Waltz” by Johann Strauss II, and “The Vienna Blood Waltz” by Johann Strauss II.
The Blue Danube
The Blue Danube, composed by Johann Strauss in 1866, is one of the most popular Viennese waltz tunes in the United States. It is often used as a wedding march and is a staple of ballroom dance competitions.
The Skater’s Waltz
The Skater’s Waltz, composed by Emile Waldteufel in 1882, is a highly popular Viennese waltz tune in the United States. It is a lively and romantic piece that is often used in figure skating competitions.
The Merry Widow Waltz
The Merry Widow Waltz, composed by Franz Lehar in 1905, is another popular Viennese waltz tune in the United States. It is a beautiful and romantic piece that is often used in theatrical productions.
The Emperor Waltz
The Emperor Waltz, composed by Johann Strauss II in 1889, is another popular Viennese waltz tune in the United States. It is a majestic and powerful piece that is often used in ballroom dance competitions.
The Vienna Blood Waltz
The Vienna Blood Waltz, composed by Johann Strauss II in 1871, is another popular Viennese waltz tune in the United States. It is a passionate and energetic piece that is often used in theatrical productions.
7. Swing
Swing
Swing is a popular form of ballroom dancing in the United States. It is characterized by its fast-paced, energetic moves and upbeat music. The most popular type of swing dancing is the Lindy Hop, which originated in the 1920s and is still popular today. Other types of swing dancing include the Charleston, Balboa, and West Coast Swing.
Swing music is an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, and swing, and the tempo of the music is usually fast. The most popular swing music is from the Big Band era of the 1930s and 1940s, but modern swing music also includes swing-influenced rock, hip-hop, and pop.
Dance Styles
Lindy Hop is the most popular style of swing dancing, and it is characterized by its fast-paced footwork, intricate turns, and acrobatic moves. The Charleston is another popular style of swing dancing, and it is characterized by its fast-paced footwork and body movements. Balboa is a slower, more relaxed style of swing dancing, and it is characterized by its smooth, relaxed footwork and body movements. West Coast Swing is a modern style of swing dancing, and it is characterized by its smooth, easy-to-follow moves and improvisation.
a. History of swing
History of Swing
The history of swing dancing in the United States dates back to the 1920s. It was a popular social dance that was done to jazz music, which was popular at the time. Swing dancing was originally done in ballrooms and clubs, but it quickly spread to other venues, such as schools, parks, and even homes.
The swing dance craze began in the 1930s and 1940s, when it was popularized by films such as Hellzapoppin and Swing Time. During this time, swing dancing was a way for people to express themselves and have fun. It was also a way for people to connect with each other and create a sense of community.
The swing dance craze eventually died down in the 1950s, with the rise of rock and roll music. However, it was revived in the 1980s and 1990s, with the emergence of swing music, such as the Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing. Today, swing dancing is still popular in the United States, with classes and competitions being held all over the country.
b. Popular swing tunes in the United States
Popular Swing Tunes in the United States
Swing music was popular in the United States from the 1920s through the 1940s. It is a genre of jazz that is characterized by a strong rhythm, improvisation, and a call and response between the lead and backing instrument sections. Popular swing tunes in the United States include “In the Mood” by Glenn Miller, “Sing, Sing, Sing” by Benny Goodman, and “Stompin’ at the Savoy” by Chick Webb. Other popular swing tunes include “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” by Duke Ellington, “Ain’t Misbehavin'” by Fats Waller, and “Jumpin’ at the Woodside” by Count Basie.
Notable Swing Bands
Notable swing bands in the United States include the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Cab Calloway and His Orchestra, and the Count Basie Orchestra. These bands are credited with popularizing the swing genre and making it a part of American culture.
8. Conclusion
Conclusion
Ballroom dancing is a popular form of social dance in the United States. There are many different dance music genres associated with ballroom dancing, each with its own unique style and sound. The most popular genres of ballroom dancing music in the United States are Latin, Swing, and Foxtrot.
No matter the genre, ballroom dancing is a great way to get moving and have fun. With the right music and the right moves, you can have an enjoyable time dancing the night away.
References
1. “Ballroom Dancing Music Genres”, Dance Central, https://www.dance-central.com/ballroom-dancing-music-genres/
2. “Ballroom Dancing Music”, Ballroom Dance Music, https://www.ballroomdancemusic.com/
3. “Latin Dance Music”, The Dance Store, https://www.thedancestore.com/latin-dance-music/
