What happens during your first week of group Cumbia?
When you arrive at 4820 W. Irving Park Rd. in Chicago, you will find free parking nearby in the Irving Park and Six Corners area. You walk into our friendly studio space and check in at the front entrance. There is no need to worry about bringing a partner with you to class. Everyone gathers on the dance floor ready to learn together. The environment is casual, supportive, and designed to help absolute beginners feel right at home.
Your instructor will start the lesson by playing upbeat Cumbia music to get everyone used to the rhythm. Cumbia has a distinct circular count and a steady side-to-side feel that is easy to pick up once you hear the beat. During week one, you spend time listening to the music and clapping along. This helps your feet and brain connect to the timing before you start moving across the floor. Learning the music first builds strong confidence early on.
Next, you will work on the core basic step while facing the mirror. You will practice stepping back, shifting your weight, and returning to the center position. The instructor breaks down each movement into small, easy pieces so you do not get overwhelmed. Everyone practices the footwork together as a solo group first. This gives you time to get comfortable with your balance and foot placement without worrying about leading or following a partner just yet.
Once the solo footwork feels good, the group transitions into partner practice. You do not need to bring a dance partner to register because partners rotate continuously throughout the lesson. Rotating partners is great because it helps you learn faster and lets you meet everyone in the room. You will dance with different people for a few minutes at a time. This keeps the class social, friendly, and low-pressure for every single student.
After practicing the basic step together, week one usually introduces your very first simple turn. You will learn how to hold hands gently and communicate direction through slight pressure in your arms. The instructor guides the leads on how to give clear signals and helps the follows react naturally. You practice this simple turn repeatedly with different partners. By the end of class, you will combine your basic step with a smooth turn.
At the end of the lesson, the teacher recaps everything you learned during the session. You will have a few minutes to ask questions, practice a step one more time, or take notes. Our complete beginner group classes are $95 for 4 weeks of structured instruction. Week one sets the foundation for the rest of the month, giving you the tools you need to build upon in the upcoming weeks without feeling rushed.
For your first week, dress in comfortable clothes that let you move freely. Smooth-soled shoes or sneakers with low traction work best so your feet can pivot easily on the floor. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during class. There is no special equipment required, just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to try something new. You can text or call 717-PaSamba to ask any pre-class questions before you walk inside.
Questions people ask
Do I need to bring a partner to my first Cumbia class?
No, you do not need to bring a partner. In our group classes, partners rotate regularly so everyone gets to dance with each other. This creates a fun and social environment for all students.
What should I wear on week one of Cumbia?
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that allows easy movement. Choose shoes with smooth soles so you can slide and turn without sticking to the floor. Avoid heavy work boots or sticky rubber soles.
How much does the week one class cost?
The full beginner group course is $95 for 4 weeks. Week one is the first lesson of this four-week series. You can call or text 717-PaSamba to register for the upcoming series.
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)