The Rumba will sharpen your sense of rhythm, timing and muscular control. Learning the Rumba is a prerequisite for good Latin dancing as it has Cuban Motion which is essential in most all Latin dances. The Rumba is used by good dancers everywhere and provides interesting variety suited for a limited space. As a Rumba student at Arthur Murray in VA Beach, you'll find that it is neat and attractive, and that the precise footwork gives you confidence in your dancing during classes.

History of Rumba dancing

The rumba was at the beginning of the Cuban and Latin American dance crazes. Danced to music inspired by African rhythms and Spanish melodies, the Americanized Rumba was the basis for the Mambo and Cha Cha in the U.S. Rumba rhythms have found their way into Country Western, Blues, Rock&Roll and other popular forms of music.

Music for Rumba dancing

Rumba music is usually written in 4/4 time and may be played over a wide variety of tempos. Often in Rumba music there may be an underlying pulsation of &1&2&3&4. The basic step in Rumba is counted Slow, Quick, Quick (SQQ).

Characteristics of the Rumba

The distinctive hip movement of Rumba, called the Cuban Motion, is one of the most important elements of this dance. Introduced in the Rumba, it is an important styling element in a number of popular Latin American dances.

Rumba songs and artists include

And I Love Her – The Beatles
Its Now or Never – Elvis Presley
Besame Mucho – Xavier Cugat
Neon Moon – Brooks and Dunn
Under the Boardwalk – The Drifters