Salsa Dancing Lesson One

LESSON ONE

Distinguishing Salsa from Other Types of Latin Music

Salsa is everywhere. The music permeates the air around you, and deftly works its way into your ear. It goes down, down….but has yet to find an outlet. It builds up inside of you. You need to release it, but you don’t yet know how. Rest assured. You are already halfway there. Your body will soon learn to translate Salsa into movement. Once this happens, Salsa music and dance will cease to be separable. You will look upon people who can hear Salsa without squirming in their seats with a type of curious pity.

It is my intention to help you reach that point. I have danced Salsa in the United States, Colombia, El Salvador, Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Ecuador, Paraguay, Honduras, Argentina, Bolivia, and even Brazil. While I’m far from an expert, I love Salsa dancing, and so decided to put together these Salsa dancing lessons for the beginner. What follows is the first in a series of short lessons dedicated to helping you become a Salsa dancer. The lessons are designed primarily for those who are starting from scratch. The student should be aware that these lessons are based largely on my own personal experience and observations, and are by no means the only interpretation of how Salsa is danced. Each lesson consists of a written part as well as an accompanying video. Study these suggestions, and practice, practice, practice. You will wear the soles off of your shoes in no time.