Q&A for How to Dance the Waltz

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  • Question
    How many steps are in a waltz?
    Lorena Bravo, MA
    Professional Dance Instructor & Competitor
    Lorena Bravo is a Dance Instructor and the Founder of Bravo Dancing Ballroom Academy based in Los Angeles, California. Specializing in ballroom dancing for both American Smooth and International Standard Divisions, Lorena has over 20 years of professional dance experience. Along with running Bravo Dancing, Lorena has served on the faculty of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and is currently on the faculty at Chapman University’s dance department. She is also the head ballroom coach for the University of Southern California (USC) Ballroom and Latin Dance Team. Lorena holds a BA in Psychology and an MA in Bilingual Education from USC and is certified in Associate American Smooth by the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing.
    Professional Dance Instructor & Competitor
    Expert Answer
    There are 6 steps in the basic form of the waltz. Some waltzes can get a little more complicated, but the most common form has 6 steps and follows a 3-count tempo.
  • Question
    What kind of shoes are best for dancing
    Community Answer
    Flats or flats with a bit of heel are the best for dancing the waltz, it would be best to stay way from running shoes and high heels.
  • Question
    Does the person who is leading always start with their left foot?
    Community Answer
    Yes, generally it is standard to start with your left foot if you're the lead.
  • Question
    In the waltz, does the man or the woman lead?
    Community Answer
    Generally, the man will lead, but it's entirely up to the couple to decide.
  • Question
    Do Belle and the Beast waltz? I'm doing a movie, and I'm Belle.
    Community Answer
    This is up to the interpretation of the director, but often the dancing will be based on the waltz, but with variations suiting characterization, music choice, and determined by the skill of the dancers.
  • Question
    Are there other advanced moves?
    Minmin4
    Community Answer
    Yes. You can spin the girl, do half turn switches, and other complicated moves.
  • Question
    Can I do the waltz in half time to start? I am worried I might fall or trip if moving too quickly.
    Community Answer
    That all depends on what your partner and you agree on while dancing. It is absolutely acceptable to take your time with it.
  • Question
    What partner is okay for waltz if I’m a woman?
    Community Answer
    A man or another woman is a a good partner for the waltz. Just make sure they can dance well, know the steps and want to pair with you.
  • Question
    What are good waltz song choices to add romantic touches to?
    Community Answer
    The Blue Danube is a good old-fashioned choice, while for a modern choice, the song Perfect by Ed Sheeran adds some romance to a waltz.
  • Question
    What are waltzes from the Nutcracker I can romantically dance to?
    Community Answer
    Try Waltz of the Flowers or Waltz of the Snowflakes, both romantically inclined waltzes from the Nutcracker.
  • Question
    What is a waltz song for a romantic dance?
    MeowingFanFictions
    Community Answer
    Try Blue Danube, Waltz of the Flowers or Waltz of the Snowflakes. They're all good songs and they have a romantic touch.
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