Social Dance

Social Dance
Social dances are dance that emerged in the 15th century Europe in a variety of rigorous adaptations and refinements of folk dances, gay and lively in character. It is also known as couple dance or ballroom dance here in the Philippines. It was developed first as social diversion among the aristocracy of Italy and France, and then explained to become part of the social life of the emerging middle class as well. Examples of these are cha-cha-cha, waltz, swing, tango, etc.
Background of the different Social Dances
A. Cha-Cha-Cha
It is a Cuban dance popularized in the 1950s, it is an outgrowth of the Rumba and Mambo and it has invariably short and staccato melodic notes. Its time signature is usually 4/4 and it has the series of four rhythmic units: double, triple, double, triple. It has the break 2 or off beat in the Philippines where in the dancers takes in the leading steps off the second beat of the musical phrase. Its dance steps are Cha-Cha-Cha Basic Step, Side Step, Cross Step, Half Turn, and Full Turn.
A. Ballroom Waltz
The word waltz came from the German word “Waltzen” which means to resolve. It was developed in Central Europe from the Asian Couple Dance known as the “landler” in 19th century waltz become an outstanding ballroom dancing until 20th century introduction of jazz dance styles. Variations; Viennese Waltz, Boston Waltz – dipping, gliding motion, and step and the related Cudle Waltz of South America which is often danced with a stamping step and extra heel clicks.
B. Swing
The New Orleans and Chicago – style jazz of Benny Goodman the band leader developed a rhythm now called as swing. It is formerly called as Jitterbug, Lindy Hop etc. It is in 4/4 time signature.
C. Tango
Philippine Tango was developed from the American Style and it is Characterized by Fast and Slow Walking Step.