Dear Coach,

I attended a dance seminar recently and while watching the dancers many people at our table begin discussing whether the dancers were dancing Mambo or Salsa.  The music and patterns looked the same to me but when I asked which ones where dancing Mambo and who were dancing Salsa they seemed to be able to tell me which one was which.  But I could not tell the difference.  Is there a difference between Mambo and Salsa and if so what is the difference?

Signed, J. Kennedy, Pasco, Washington

Dear J.

According to the Godfather of Latin Sole, Tito Puentes, when asked on national TV, “What is the difference in Mambo and Salsa?” his answer was, “Hype!” …or how to sell something old to a new generation.

He further went on to say that the music in Mambo and Salsa is the same. 

The purists who say they dance Mambo and not Salsa break on the two beat.  The music is written to break on the two beat.  The Salsa dancers break on the one beat.  The reason for this is that many new dancers find it difficult to hear the two beat because they have not been exposed to this type of Latin music.  The reason for breaking on the one beat is because it is a heavier beat and easier to hear.

What is meant by a break or a breaking step?

The breaking step is the first step either moving forward or back of the basic pattern. 

For example —

·         Salsa

Left foot forward breaking on 1 beat.
Recover back on Right foot on the 2 beat.
Close left foot to right foot on the 3 beat.

·         Mambo

Left foot forward breaking on 2 beat.
Recover back on Right foot on the 3 beat.
Close left foot to right foot on the 4 beat.

Since most of the social dancers (street dancers) who dance in the Latin clubs break on the 1 beat, it is best to learn to break on the 1 beat.  When in Rome do as the Romans do.  Your dancing would then be more compatible and enjoyable when social dancing.

When dancers dance Mambo and break on the 2 beat a greater hip action is created when dancing because the music is written to break on the 2 beat.  A new dancer may find this difficult however.  With a greater understanding of music it becomes easier to recognize the 2 beat, because if you can find the 1 beat, what comes after 1? …the 2 beat.

Remember whether you break on the 1 beat or the 2 beat, be consistent and have fun…that’s what Latin Salsa or Mambo is all about.

Dear Reader,

I would like to dispel some of the myths and misconceptions of dance style differences because so many students are totally confused about the differences between American and International Style Ballroom. 

The point I am trying to make here is that many dance styles use identical steps.  A student that understands the difference in styling can choose to dance difference styles once certain basic steps are learned.  This should save many dollars in dance classes for the average student and may help unravel the confusion created by different schools and dance associations that treat students like mushrooms.

If you know a step called a Hover in International Style it is called a Twinkle in American Style.  A Triple Twinkle in American Style is made up of four components in International Style which are 1-Hover, 2-Open Natural Turn, 3-Open Impetus Turn, 4-Feather Finish.  So what is in a name except confusion?

Let’s compare some of the most common Waltz steps taught in most classes :

These are common steps just to list a few.  I could go on and on but you get my point.  What is most important is to understand the styling differences between American Style and International Style.  International is danced in a closed position, whereas in American Style you danced in closed, open and solo position.  American Style allows you to use Theater Arts styling, which really makes dancing even more interesting and more interpretive.

Many students have reported to me in class that when out dancing they have heard many dancers say they only do International Style and would never do American Style.  They tend to look down their nose at American Style.  My response to that is : Regardless of the style you choose, your footwork and dance position are the same in both styles…it is simply a matter of choice.  I do not feel any one style is superior to the other, rather they are the same, but American Style is more flamboyant and International Style is more classic. 

But you can’t fake footwork, and understanding that is what is most important.  Your footwork will make you or break you in either style.  The basic rules for dancing either dance style are the same.  But remember there are no absolute rules in dance.  If someone tells you that their way is the only way to do a step or pattern, I will show you numerous exploitations of the same steps.  That’s what I mean by interpretation and creativity.

Quickstep and Waltz are the same dance.  The difference is in the speed that you dance both dances.  I was told by my teacher of six years, that if I wanted to do Quickstep and do it better than anyone else, that I better learn to Waltz it.  That teacher was Bill Irvin, 13 times World Champion.  Along with his partner Bobby Irvin, Bill retired undefeated and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth for their contribution to the world of Ballroom dance.

I was not only taught by the Irvins, but also had the honor of dancing with Bobby Irvin for my Imperial exam.  The style and magic of this amazing couple has never been duplicated, but they set a standard for all Ballroom dancers to strive towards.  For those of you who didn’t realize it, Bill was the announcer at the World Championships in Black Pool, England this year and still has a huge influence on and respect from the dance world for his and Bobby’s contributions.  When this man talks…I listen.

Next month we are going to discuss the differences in Mambo, Salsa and International Rumba.  You will be shocked when you read that column. 

Dear Remos,

I have been taking classes for some time and know many steps and patterns.  Most people consider me a good dancer but when I observe you and other professionals dance I can see how much better you look.  I have attended some of your dance camps here in Eugene and would like to know what you would suggest for me to make my dancing better.

Signed:  Mickialea, Eugene, Oregon

Dear Michialea,

Like most dancers,  that are taking lessons whether they are beginner, intermediate or advanced students, you need to perfect your basic footwork, body balance and dance frame.  You are a good dancer but as you have said you want to look better and be a better dancer.

Unfortunately  most students want to learn steps, turns and tricks because they equate that with being a better dancer, but in reality what makes the pros look they way they look on the dance floor is perfection in their foot work not how many spins they can do.   Pros have spent hours or drill in front of mirrors and thousands on coaches perfecting their  footwork, body alignment and dance frame that makes them dance the way they do   Please remember “You cannot fake footwork”.  Judges,  when judging dance competitions, first concern is proper the technical portion of your score because that is the foundation of your dancing skills.

I have spent those hours in front of the mirror and on the ballet bar, practicing my footwork and frame and balance until it is automatic.  Now my body is trained to automatically place my feet properly, hold my dance frame without discomfort, and keep my body weight distributed over my feet at all times.  This is called discipline dancing.  I do not for one minute think that every dancer needs to go through that training process since social dancing should be fun.  The student that wants to socially dance, has a desire to be an excellent dancer but does not have goals of making dancing a career, a mere 5 minutes of practice a day will develop proper footwork, balance and dance frame.

When you are walking down the street, hold your upper body posture just like you would on the dance floor.  Do that every time you walk anywhere(power walking exercise is a great place for this)and in a very short time you will develop muscles and train your body to stay in that up position.  Once those muscles have developed in your back it will bother you if you begin to slouch.  Back stretching exercises are excellent for developing a good dance posture also.  Train your brain to stay conscious of your body at all times.   You will be surprised at the difference in your appearance off the floor and the strength and control you will develop on the floor in a very short period of time. 

It only takes 21 days to acquire a new habit…after that it will be automatic.

Ask the Coach first published live on Internet, January 2004.

In the near future we will be presenting two more Satin & Latin columns on this website:

• Where to Dance will be an up-to-date schedule of dance events in the local area, and
• Studio News will give our students a current perspective on events happening here at Satin & Latin Dance Studio.

We look forward to all dancers in the Portland area visiting our exciting new web pages.