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SAMBA. Samba improves the flexibility of the body and helps achieve easy movement and lightness. The Samba rolling action teaches the body to be supple. To move lightly, quickly, and smoothly without effort takes study but only at the start. Although considered a good exercise, Samba should be danced smoothly and in a relaxed manner giving the appearance of effortless movement. Sometimes called the South American Waltz, the Samba pulsates to a unique Latin rhythm.
HISTORY. Sometimes called the South American Waltz, the Samba pulsates to a unique Latin rhythm.
This national dance of Brazil became the rage of its society in the 1930's but began as an exhibition dance in Paris in 1905. Movie star & singer Carmen Miranda, is credited with making the dance popular in the U.S. in the early 1940's.
This national dance of Brazil became the rage of its society in the 1930's but began as an exhibition dance in Paris in 1905. Movie star & singer Carmen Miranda, is credited with making the dance popular in the U.S. in the early 1940's.
CHARACTERISTICS. Walking steps and side steps are the basic components of Samba. The major characteristic of the Samba is the vertical bounce action. Steps are taken using the ball of the foot. Knee action along with body sway and "pendulum motion", in the accomplished dancer, is made to look effortless and carefree.
TEACHING ELEMENTS.
· Forward and Back Motion--Weight changes incorporating vertical motion
· Side Motion--Weight changes incorporating vertical motion
· Slip Action--Progressing, side, crossing
· Timing--Hold action, timing changes, phrasing
· Turns--Changes of direction with control and proper body and arm action
· Compare/Contrast--Waltz, Rumba
· Forward and Back Motion--Weight changes incorporating vertical motion
· Side Motion--Weight changes incorporating vertical motion
· Slip Action--Progressing, side, crossing
· Timing--Hold action, timing changes, phrasing
· Turns--Changes of direction with control and proper body and arm action
· Compare/Contrast--Waltz, Rumba
Samba songs and artists include:
· One Note Samba - Antonio Carlos Jobim
· Macarena - Los Del Rio
· Copacabana - Barry Manilow
· Quando, Quando, Quando - Engelbert Humperdink
· One Note Samba - Antonio Carlos Jobim
· Macarena - Los Del Rio
· Copacabana - Barry Manilow
· Quando, Quando, Quando - Engelbert Humperdink
MUSIC. Today's Samba music is influenced by Jazz and Latin rhythms. It is written in 2/4 or 4/4 time. The music is festive and fast paced with a sound associated with Rio's Carnival. The basic count is "Slow a Slow" or "1 & 2".
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