The classic, elegant, International Waltz is the quintessential, “ballroom dance” (think, Cinderella!) Known for its characteristic “123,” the Waltz is danced in a closed hold in the International style, and breaks between open and closed hold in the American style.
The Waltz evolved from a German and Austrian peasant dance called the Landler, and was the first widely popular dance to feature a closed position. Its signature Box pattern is easily translated to many other dances - Rumba, Foxtrot, and more!
Timing
Danced in a 3/4 time signature, the Waltz is a style of music known by dancers and musicians alike. The characteristic downbeat occurs on count one, where dancers commence their rise at the end of the count.
Waltz is counted 123, 123.
Breakdown of Basic Step
Waltz is characterized by rise & fall and sway. The feet stay in contact with the floor, creating a smooth, gliding look. Learn more about the rise and fall and sway action within our syllabus manuals here.
As a follower:
- Start with your weight on your left foot with your right foot free.
- Step back on your right foot.
- Step side with your left foot.
- Close your right foot to your left foot, changing weight.
- Step forward with your left foot.
- Step side with your right foot.
- Close your left foot to your right foot, changing weight.
- Begin again! You may notice that you have created a "box" on the floor with your feet, hence the terminology "Waltz box" to describe this basic step!
As a leader:
- Start with your weight on your right foot with your left foot free.
- Step forward with your left foot.
- Step side with your right foot.
- Close your left foot to your right foot, changing weight.
- Step back on your right foot.
- Step side with your left foot.
- Close your right foot to your left foot, changing weight.
- Begin again! You may notice that you have created a "box" on the floor with your feet, hence the terminology "Waltz box" to describe this basic step!
Try it from Home
Dance to the Music
We love Waltz so much, we made a whole playlist of Waltz music!
Check out our curated Spotify playlists created with dancers like you in mind. Take our playlists with you to the studio or use it to practice from home. Who knows, you just might find your new favorite song to jam to and get inspired by!
Now that you’re hooked on the Waltz, check out more steps on our website and App. Let’s dance.
