Celebrates Columbia Month
About Colombian Cumbia
During the 17th and 18th century African slave populations of Colombia’s Caribbean coastal towns lived, worked and died alongside the indigenous Amerindians; a population similarly exploited by the colonial powers of Europe.
Out of this society, cumbia emerged as a social and courtship dance, taking its name from the Guinean dance “cumbè.” On certain holidays and special occasions these people would gather to dance cumbia, accompanied by African drumming and singing. The basis of all cumbia is this percussion, to which native Amerindian flutes and shakers were added as the music developed.
Modern Cumbia music strongly emphasizes percussion. The melody, often introduced early, is woven into the percussion pattern, usually with a keyboard.
Free “Basics and More” Dance Classes
Our free Basics-and-More Latin dance classes provide instruction and practice in the steps and patterns of each dance style we offer. Instruction is pegged at the experience level of participants. Classes meet Thursday mornings from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. in the Vermilion Room at SaddleBrooke One. A dance step summary sheet and a practice music CD are provided to class participants.
Colombian Cumbia – May 2, 9, 16, 23
The Latin dance from which others are derived. Great music, simple basics and fun routines in an aerobic dance.
Salsa – June 6, 13, 20, 27
Arguably the most popular fast Latin dance. From an easy basic step, we develop patterns that are common to many other dances.
Nightclub Two Step – July 4, 11, 18, 25
This do-it-all slow dance uses basics and step patterns from many other dances, including Salsa.
Free Beginner’s Class
This class meets at 2:00 p.m. Mondays on the dates listed below in the Vermilion Room of the SaddleBrooke One Clubhouse. Bring shoes that turn easily on your tile floor.
Argentine Milonga – May 20, 27 and June 3, 17, 24
Milonga is the ancestor of Argentine Tango. The steps are easy to learn, a lot of fun and definitely aerobic.
Note: Latin dancing is vigorous and aerobic and very good for seniors’ bodies, minds and balance. Be sure your doctor approves!
For More Information
For more information about Latin Rhythm Dance Club classes and dance parties, our popular dance instructional DVDs or membership, contact [email protected] or call 818-0604. Ask to be included on our email dance events list.