The holidays are getting closer and since everyone will be home because of the pandemic a good
way to have fun and spend a great time is by dancing Salsa.
What is Salsa?
Salsa is a Latin dance associated with the music genre of the same name which originated in
New York City in the 1960s. This dance was originally developed by the Dominicans and Puerto
Rican’s living in New York.
Salsa means “sauce” which represented son, guaguanco, son montuno, jazz elements, Latin jazz,
and Cuban influences. Throughout time, Salsa has diversified and added different Afro-
Caribbean dances.
There has been controversy in regards to the word “salsa” because it has been ascribed to thedance since the mid-1800s. Some claim that the term was based on a cry shouted by musicians while they played their music. Other people think that the term was created by record labels to better market their music, who chose the word because of its spicy and hot connotations.
How many styles are there?
The Afro-Latino style is very popular in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic,
Haiti, and Cuba. This style has most of the same dancing as most versions but has a little twist
added to it. The difference is that it contains some African instruments that gives the songs
different rhythms.
Cali/Colombia Style: Cali-style salsa is based on the geographical location of the Colombian
city of Cali. Cali is also known as “Capital de la Salsa” because salsa is the main music in
parties, nightclubs, and festivals in the 21 st century.
Cuban Style/Casino: In Cuba, a popular dance known as Casino was marketed as Cuban-style
salsa or Salsa Cubana abroad to distinguish it from other salsa styles when the name was
popularized in the 1970s. Dancing Casino is an expression of social popular culture.
Basic steps of Salsa:
The basic salsa dance rhythm consists of taking three steps for every four beats of music. The
odd number of steps creates the inherent syncopation to the Salsa dancing and ensures that it
takes 8 beats of music to loop back to a new sequence of steps.
To learn how to dance salsa you have to start with both feet together, step forward with your left
foot, shift your weight to your right foot, step backward with your left foot, then pause. You have
to reverse the actions and use your right foot. Step backward with your right foot, shift your
weight, step forward and then pause.
To conclude, the only important thing to worry about is having a great time with your family and
if you include a little bit of Salsa dancing it will be even better.
To learn more on how to dance Salsa, visit the webpage: www.learntodance.com
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