Hunt Valley Foxtrot Dance Classes
Contrary to popular belief, ballroom dancing isn’t always fast-paced and doesn’t always require a lot of brisk movements and steps. There are several types of ballroom dances that are easy to learn, and one of them is Foxtrot. If you are interested in learning this dance, you can sign up for one of our Hunt Valley Foxtrot dance classes at Baltimore Dance Studio!
Foxtrot is a slow and simple dance that is very easy to learn for both young and old dancers. It uses a combination of slow steps and quick steps to create a dance that is smooth and challenging at the same time.
Many even say that once you master foxtrot, it will be easier to learn other forms of ballroom dancing, and you will feel like a pro as you master this romantic dance.
Baltimore Dance Studio’s Hunt Valley, MD dance studio is open to anyone who wishes to learn the Foxtrot regardless of age and dance level. We have talented dance instructors ready to help you learn the dance in a fun environment, whether you prefer learning with a group or in a private class setting.
We even have events regularly scheduled so you can strut these dance moves and share your love for dance with others who also have a passion for the art.
Call Baltimore Dance Studio at (410) 705-7161 for your Free Consultation with a Hunt Valley Foxtrot Dance Class instructor!
Know Foxtrot’s Origins and Characteristics
The dance known today as foxtrot was conceptualized in the United States in the 1920s by those who regularly visit African American nightclubs. However, it only became popular with Vernon and Irene Castle, a husband-and-wife team of ballroom dancers who are credited for reviving modern dance. The name is said to be after another popularizer, entertainer Harry Fox, while the dance is influenced by dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, who were known for their smooth dancing performances. Thanks to all these factors, foxtrot became one of the most popular ballroom dances in history.
Foxtrot is composed of simple walking and side steps. Slow steps are incorporated in two beats, while quick steps are added in one beat. Timing-wise, it is “slow, quick, quick” or “slow, slow, quick, quick.” It is important that the foxtrot is danced smoothly without any excessive body movement, and timing must be memorized to achieve this. Because of this, it is often required that a person learning the foxtrot should already be familiar with waltz and quickstep before they take on the foxtrot.
Understanding Foxtrot’s Rhythm and Step Sequence
Foxtrot has a distinctive step sequence that allows it to stand out from other ballroom dances. Dancers would often take long strides during slower music while they take short steps in faster rhythms. To do the “trot” part of the dance, dancers must be able to shorten their steps as the tempo changes. Some often make zig-zag patterns on the dance floor to do the trot.
Aside from zig-zag steps, weave and feather steps are often used for foxtrot:
- Weave – This involves six quick steps in a row and is done on the toes. Meanwhile, slow steps will be done on the heels.
- Feather step – In this step, the man steps outside of the woman, similar to how one would “feather the oar” in rowing.
The music for foxtrot is usually swing-style, but one can use other music types to dance it. Usually, the first and third beats are strongly accented to help with the count. This also allows dancers to be more fluid with their movements and be happy with their performance.
Does it seem complicated to learn? Don’t worry! Our Hunt Valley foxtrot dance classes are carefully designed to help you learn these steps slowly until you master them. You can even schedule a private class if you want one of our dance instructors to focus on your progress.
Learn Foxtrot and Other Dances with Baltimore Dance Studio!
At Baltimore Dance Studio, we won’t judge your dance level when you sign up for one of our classes. Whether it is your first time learning formal dances like foxtrot or you already have experience competing in dance contests, our dance classes are open to all. For us, we want you to have an open space where you can enjoy your passion for dance and learn other dance forms while sharing this joy with your fellow dance enthusiasts.
We offer a wide array of services to anyone who signs up for our dance classes. We have group dance classes for those who wish to learn a dance with a group and build strong bonds with their classmates. If that is not your fancy, you can plan out a private dance class with one of our dance instructors so you can get one-on-one training for the dances you want to learn for your events or simply for fun.
Want to lose weight or have an active exercise routine you can do with a group? We have dance lessons and events that will fit your goals easily.
Want to Learn the Fox Trot? Contact Us Today!
If you want to try out one of our Hunt Valley foxtrot dance classes or our other dance services, our dance studio is always ready to answer your questions and concerns. Simply let our team know what you are looking for, and we will work with you to create your dream dance lesson or sign you up for one of our dance events.
Sign up for our newsletter today or reach out to us through our hotline, where you can get a free consultation. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
Call Baltimore Dance Studio at (410) 705-7161 for your Free Consultation with a Hunt Valley Foxtrot Dance Class instructor!