Dance levels

How do I know what level of dancer I am?

All teachers have their own interpretation of what determines the level of their classes. Salsa is a dance that has a variety of different styles. There is no set curriculum or lexicon of terminology. Therefore what one teacher or instructor considers an Intermediate level may be considered another teacher’s advanced level. We recommend trying one class of the teacher/instructor of your choice. If the class is too slow or quick, then speak to the teacher so that he or she can recommend a more appropriate level.

To get an indication of your own level, Salsa Libre doesn’t talk about beginners, intermediate or advanced but just Level 1, level 2, level 3 and so on ….

Each level contains 10 lessons. That means that level 1 = 1 – 10 lessons and so on ….

Level 1 Dance Classes

Level 1 is an introductory course, which gives a foundation of movement for students who have had little or no dance experience. In this course, students will learn the basics in ‘Salsa, Merengue and Bachata’. Emphasis will be on the development of partnering skills, lead and follow, the basic principles of timing, as well as basic footwork and variations of simple turn patterns.

Level 2 Dance Classes

Level 2 is a continuation for students who have completed Level 1 or possess a good understanding of the basic patterns of Salsa, Merengue and Bachata as well as, variations of simple turns and the principles of timing and partnering. Emphasis will be on the continuing development of partnering skills, lead and follow, dance floor etiquette, a good understanding of timing, and the ability to execute simple Salsa and Merengue sequences. New steps and turn patterns will be introduced and linked together to develop new combinations.

Level 3 Dance Classes

The Level 3 focus will refine and reinforce the principles and technique taught at the beginner levels. Emphasis will be on new and more challenging combinations to add to an already existing dance repertoire. Timing will constantly be reinforced which will aid the student in their ability to combine various salsa combinations with ease. Also at this level the basic footwork and timing will be introduced. Simple sequences will be taught.

Level 4 Dance Classes

Level 4 is a continuation for students who have completed Level 3 or possess a solid understanding of Salsa, Merengue and Bachata. At this level more intricate patterns and combinations are introduced with greater emphasis on speed, timing and co-ordination. Further development of partnering skills will be taught therefore, making the lead delicate, yet effective without requiring muscle. The focus will be on teaching ‘leaders’ to have a clear concise lead with accuracy in timing while ‘followers’ become more receptive, resulting in smooth controlled movement.