Salsa & Bachata Course

Lesson 1 • Understanding Musical Structure

Introduces beats, measures, and phrasing in Latin music. Students identify the clave and song structure to move intentionally with the music.

Lesson 2 • Posture and Body Alignment

Establishes the neutral dance stance used in both styles. Correct alignment prevents injury and enables fluid movement throughout the course.

Lesson 3 • Weight Transfers and Stepping

Teaches controlled weight shifts that underpin every step pattern. Mastery here directly enables clean footwork in later chapters.

Lesson 1 • On1 Timing System

Introduces breaking on beat 1, the most common salsa timing worldwide. Students internalize the pause on beats 4 and 8 through repetition.

Lesson 2 • On2 Timing System

Teaches breaking on beat 2, common in New York-style salsa. Students compare on1 and on2 to develop timing flexibility.

Lesson 3 • Salsa Footwork Drills

Reinforces all basic patterns through structured solo and partner drills. Consistent repetition builds muscle memory before turns are introduced.

Lesson 4 • Salsa Basic Step Variations

Expands the basic step into side, cumbia, and suzy-q variations. Each variation builds spatial awareness and rhythmic versatility.

Lesson 1 • Forward and Back Bachata Basic

Extends the basic step into the sagittal plane for greater floor coverage. Students alternate side and forward-back basics fluidly.

Lesson 2 • Bachata Partner Hold and Frame

Establishes the close and open holds specific to bachata. Proper frame enables the hip-to-hip connection used in sensual styles.

Lesson 3 • Bachata Timing Drills

Consolidates the four-count rhythm through progressive speed and music drills. Students practice with slow, medium, and fast bachata tracks.

Lesson 4 • Bachata Four-Count Basic

Teaches the side-step-tap pattern that defines bachata. Students count aloud and step to live music to internalize the rhythm.

Lesson 1 • Multiple Turns and Momentum Control

Builds from single to double turns using controlled momentum. Students learn to stop cleanly and reconnect with their partner.

Lesson 2 • Right Turn for Leaders and Followers

Covers the right-turn lead signal and follower's execution in salsa timing. Both roles practice independently before combining.

Lesson 3 • Left Turn for Leaders and Followers

Introduces the left turn, which requires a different lead signal and follower pivot. Students compare left and right turns to build versatility.

Lesson 4 • Spotting and Balance

Teaches the head-spotting technique that prevents dizziness and maintains orientation. Spotting is drilled solo before any turning pattern is added.

Lesson 1 • Social Dancing Application

Applies all learned patterns in a simulated social dance setting. Students practice adapting combinations to different partners and music tempos.

Lesson 2 • Inside Turn Combination

Adds an inside turn to the cross-body lead for a complete two-pattern combo. Students practice leading and following the turn signal precisely.

Lesson 3 • Cross-Body Lead

Teaches the foundational salsa pattern that moves the follower across the leader's body. It is the building block for most advanced combinations.

Lesson 4 • Outside Turn Combination

Introduces the outside turn, which requires a different arm path than the inside turn. Students contrast both turns to sharpen lead clarity.

Lesson 1 • Bachata Turn Patterns

Combines single turns with the four-count basic to create flowing sequences. Students practice leading turns smoothly from both open and closed holds.

Lesson 2 • Body Wave and Sensual Elements

Teaches the chest-to-hip body wave central to sensual bachata. Students isolate each body segment before executing the full wave.

Lesson 3 • Bachata Combination Sequences

Chains turns, shadow position, and body waves into a cohesive sequence. Students practice the sequence with music to develop flow and confidence.

Lesson 4 • Shadow Position and Walk

Introduces the side-by-side shadow position used in modern bachata. Students practice synchronized walking and hip motion in this hold.

Lesson 1 • Salsa Shines and Footwork

Introduces solo salsa footwork sequences performed during partner separation. Shines showcase individual style and fill musical phrases.

Lesson 2 • Expressing Emotion Through Movement

Guides students to connect emotional intent to physical expression. Students practice varying dynamics, speed, and texture to tell a story.

Lesson 3 • Listening to Latin Music Deeply

Trains the ear to identify instruments, breaks, and song sections. Musical awareness directly informs when and how to apply styling.

Lesson 4 • Accenting Breaks and Pauses

Teaches students to freeze, accent, or punctuate on musical breaks. Controlled pauses demonstrate musicality and command of timing.

Lesson 1 • Dips and Dramatic Accents

Introduces safe dip technique and dramatic accent moves for both dances. Safety, consent, and physical preparation are covered before execution.

Lesson 2 • Advanced Bachata Sequences

Integrates body waves, shadow position, and multiple turns into a flowing routine. Students execute the sequence with musicality and partner sensitivity.

Lesson 3 • Lead-Follow Improvisation

Develops real-time communication between partners without pre-planned sequences. Students practice listening through the body and responding spontaneously.

Lesson 4 • Full Social Dance Integration

Simulates a complete social dance event to consolidate all skills. Students rotate partners, choose music-appropriate patterns, and apply floor etiquette.