Dance Recommendations
What dance should I learn first?
Since people have different “tastes” in music, maybe start learning to dance to music that you like. And if you like it all you’ll be a “Ballroom Eclectic” and learn some of everything!
Big Band or Retro Swing Jazz music:
Plan to learn East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, Foxtrot, Quickstep…
World music:
Learn Waltz, Cha Cha Cha, Nightclub Two Step, Swing, Samba, Tango, Salsa, Bachata
Country music:
Learn Country 2 Step, West Coast Swing, Cha Cha, Nightclub Two Step, Hustle, Waltz, Line Dance
R&B, Alternative and Contemporary Pop music:
Learn West Coast Swing, Hustle and Nightclub Two Step, Cha Cha, East Coast Swing, Foxtrot
Salsa/Latin music:
Learn Salsa, Bachata, Merengue and Rumba
Smooth classic and Jazz vocals:
Learn Waltz, Quickstep, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, Jive, East Coast Swing
What dances are recommended for a Beginner?
The easiest and most used “Ballroom social dances” to start with are: Foxtrot, Waltz, Rumba, Cha Cha, East Coast Swing, and Nightclub Two Step… For more information about each style of dance, check out Dance Descriptions.
| Easiest To Learn | Next Level | More Difficult |
|---|---|---|
| Waltz | Cha Cha | Argentine Tango |
| Merengue | Salsa or Mambo | Bolero |
| Foxtrot | Tango | Viennese Waltz |
| Rumba | Lindy Swing | Quickstep |
| 4-count Hustle (Disco) | East Coast Swing (triple rhythm) | Lindy Hop |
| East Coast Swing (simple rhythm) | Nightclub Two-Step | Paso Doble |
| Fusion Waltz | West Coast Swing | |
| Polka | 3-count Hustle (Disco) | |
| International (Slow) Foxtrot | ||
| American (Silver) Foxtrot | ||
| International Waltz | ||
| International Cha Cha | ||
| International Tango | ||
| International Rumba |
Quick Links
Contact Details
Need help? EMAIL or call Linda 503.241.0460.
DANCEWELL PDX SCHOOLS
BEAVERTON (near Aloha) 3425 SW 185th Ave., 97006
NE PORTLAND (Parkrose) 4848 NE 105th Ave.,97220
Click HERE for maps and directions.
