What week 1 covers
The first class is mostly about your feet and your ears. You learn the four-count basic, where the tap goes, and how to find the beat in a bachata song by listening for the bongo and guitar.
- Counting 1-2-3-tap
- Shifting weight from foot to foot
- Hearing the beat in the music
- Dancing the basic with a partner for the first time
Feeling awkward is normal
Most beginners feel stiff for the first twenty minutes. By the end of the hour that usually fades, because the step repeats and your body starts doing it without thinking.
Your First Bachata Moves
Bachata is a beautiful social dance from the Dominican Republic. It is known for its sensual movements and close connection. You will start with the basic step, learning to move your body in time with the music. We teach you how to lead and follow clearly. This foundation allows you to dance with anyone. You will learn simple turns and patterns that look and feel natural. Our goal is to get you comfortable moving on the dance floor. Many students are surprised at how quickly they pick up the steps. You will build muscle memory with practice. Each week introduces new elements while reinforcing what you have learned. You will gain confidence in your movement. You will soon be able to express yourself through dance. We break down each step slowly. We demonstrate from different angles. You will have plenty of time to practice with different partners. This helps you adapt to various dance styles. Our instructors provide gentle corrections. They help you improve your technique. You will develop a good rhythm and timing. Bachata is a joyful dance. We want you to enjoy every moment of learning. You will leave class feeling accomplished. You will look forward to the next session. This class is designed to make learning easy and fun. Step by step, you will master the basics. You will connect with the music and your dance partners.
What to Expect in Level 1 Bachata
Level 1 bachata classes focus on building a strong foundation. You will learn the fundamental steps and body movement. This includes the basic side-to-side, forward-and-back steps. We also introduce basic turns and simple combinations. You will learn to navigate the dance floor with a partner. Understanding lead-and-follow technique is key. We cover basic bachata musicality. You will learn to recognize different parts of a song. This helps you anticipate changes in the music. Each class builds on the previous one. We review past material before adding new steps. Our instructors ensure everyone keeps up. They provide individual attention when needed. We rotate partners frequently in class. This helps you become a versatile dancer. You learn to lead and follow different people. This is how social dancing works. It also helps you make new friends. You will feel comfortable dancing with anyone. You will gain a clear understanding of bachata rhythm. By the end of Level 1, you will be able to social dance. You will have a solid set of beginner moves. You will be ready to move on to more complex patterns. Our classes are supportive and encouraging. We create a friendly learning environment. Everyone is here to learn and have fun. You will feel welcomed from your very first step.
Join Our Chicago Bachata Community
Learning to dance is also about joining a community. Our studio is located at 4820 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60641. This is in the Six Corners area. We offer free parking for your convenience. After your 4-week session, you can join our Friday Socials. These are practice parties held at the studio. You can try out your new moves in a relaxed setting. It is a great way to meet other dancers. Our Friday Socials are $15 per person. This is an opportunity to keep dancing outside of class. It helps reinforce what you have learned. You can practice with classmates and more experienced dancers. Many students find new dance partners here. It is a fun way to spend your Friday evening. Our goal is to make bachata accessible to everyone. We want you to feel part of our dance family. Building connections through dance is rewarding. We believe dance brings people together. Come discover the joy of bachata with us. Text or call us at 717-PaSamba (717-727-2622). We are here to answer your questions. We look forward to dancing with you.
Questions people ask
Am I too old or too uncoordinated?
No. Students of every age and fitness level start in Level 1.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes with a smooth sole you can pivot in.
Do I need special shoes?
Shoes with a smooth sole are helpful. They allow you to pivot and turn easily. Avoid sneakers or shoes with rubber soles. If you don't have dance shoes, comfortable dress shoes work well.
Visit the studio
Dennis PaSamba Dance Company
4820 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60641
Six Corners · Portage Park · Irving Park
dennispasamba.com · Text/Call 717-PASAMBA ((717) 727-2622)