There is plenty of opportunity to learn to waltz at TC in Kansas City.
Many engaged couples come specifically to prepare for that first dance on
their wedding day. But the waltz is also one of the most popular dances
with all students, and TC group classes include waltz instruction for both
new members, and advanced students.
The waltz is danced to 3/4 time music with an accent on the first beat
of every measure and a basic pattern of step-step-close. Precursors to the
waltz were the allemande and the minuet. The allemande was a stately dance
done in two lines. Partners faced each other and moved back and forth, sometimes
going under the arms of the other line, or processing down the middle. The
minuet was a square-step dance performed in a rigid and stately manner.
The waltz itself is Viennese, and it evolved in Austria and Bavaria under such
names as the Dreher, the Laendler and the Deutscher. It was created as a peasant
dance in early Austria, and involved robust moves and lots of space. The close
contact with one's partners body contrasted sharply with the stately dances
of the aristocracy - the minuets, polonaises, and quadrilles - in which one
kept one's distance. The waltz was termed the "forbidden dance" for
one reason.
When it moved into Viennese dance halls, partners were allowed to touch!
This was unheard of, and led to the dance being slandered by many officials
of the church and leaders of the Austrian community. Because it was a favored
dance of the young, however, it continued to be danced.
Because of its transition to dance halls and city gatherings, it evolved
into a light dance for polished floors and parties. Its music also changed,
becoming more refined and orchestrated. Mozart was a huge fan of the waltz,
and in one of his operas, Don Giovanni, three waltzes are played at once in
one scene! Clearly, the dance could not be stopped. Today the Waltz is a very
popular and stylish dance allowing you to dance with a variety of partners.
The waltz is for experienced dancers as well as novices.
Copyright 2008, TC Dance Club Kansas City
