KamaSalsa

Bridgman/Packer integrate live performance and technology at the Jarson Kaplan Theatre

2010-04-24T07:48:00.000-07:00

Is it real? Is it video? Surreal or a dream? It is the work of choreographers/performers Art Bridgman and Myrna Packer, acclaimed modern dancers who integrate live performance and technology into a cinematic experience where image and reality collide. Haled as "ingenious, magical and fascinating by the New York Times, they move with fluid partnering, sensuality and humor in "Under the Skin" and the newly released "Double Expose" April 23 and 24 presented by CDT at the Jarson-Kaplan Theatre Downtown Cincinnati.

No strangers to the Cincinnati dance community, the couple have a sense of connection with Jefferson James and The Contemporary Dance Theater not only through performing and choreographing but also Jefferson introduced composer and saxophone player Ken Field to them. "Jefferson has been extremely supportive," says Myrna Packer. "We have worked with her for years."

After six years, Bridgman/Packer returns with "Double Expose", a sensual exploration of the human psyche, identity and relationships that are conveyed through "Video Partnering" using a total integration of live performance and video technology to create layered perspectives of the live and virtual. Each element from video, animation, music, lighting and costume revels in the multiplicity and exact timing to create fluid imagery that astounds the eyes.

The piece unfolds another innovation of "Technical Cubism" where live filming magnify the performer's different angles and are then projected back onto their bodies creating layers of the human experience through sensual imagery.

"This embodies the human persona," says Myrna Packer. "We see things that identify the archetypes of relationships: power structures, upper hand and sensual attraction with random flirtation leading up to romantic fantasy or obsession."

Timing and skill take the work to another level. With the talent and skill of artists, such as, Ken Field composer/saxophone player, filmmaker Peter Bobrow, lighting designer Frank DenDanto III and animator Karen Aqua viewers are touched by sight and sound in an esthetically moving form.

"Under the Skin" combines the dancer's bodies and costumes that become projected screens creating morphing and demorphing identities to reveal the hidden psychological depth. This interplay combines costuming from hoop skirts to modern vintage clothing that play off the light and dark perspectives. White lettering swims on screens as the dancers slip out of what is real and what isn't.

Accompanying the couple is Ken Field, composer and saxophone player. Internationally known, he adds his own powerful element while enhancing the senses. "I feel strongly that music is a collaboration and needs to work out like a relationship. In the relationship of music and dance, both are strong individually but add strength to one another."

No matter your dance experience, this is a feast for the senses. In a word: mesmerizing. Find out more about Bridgman/Packer through their website at http://www.bridgmanpacker.org. You can also move and relish in their mastery at class held on Saturday, April 24 12:30PM at the Contemporary Dance Town Hall.

Details on the show:

Where: Jarson-Kaplan Theatre. Walnut Street Downtown Cincinnati

Time: 8:30p

Cost: $27-$22; $17 students/seniors

More about CDT at http://www.cdt-dance.org

Diana's email: dhoffman5678@gmail.com; http://www.kamasalsa.com

More About: cincinnati salsa · cincinnati contemporary dance · bridgmanpacker · kamasalsa · cdt · contemporary dance

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olive Dance Theater Brings Breakin' to Cincinnati

2010-03-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

I'm really enjoying writing for The Examiner about different dance topics from how to get started to events. Here is the current article about the olive Dance Theatre's performance "Swift Solos".

Top rock, down rock, power moves and freezes/suicides may not be in your everyday vocabulary but to break dancers, it's the language that drives the dance. To Ken Swift, re known B-Boy, choreographer and innovator these terms became his language of movement as he is credited with establishing the critical foundation of Breakin' with style and flair.

His legendary works are featured this weekend, March 19 and 20 at the Jarson-Kaplan Theater as the Contemporary Dance Theatre hosts the oLIVE Dance Theatre's performance of "Swift Solos". The Philadelphia group showcases Swift's works of solo and ensemble pieces from solo to battle and cipher that spans over thirty years bringing break dancing to the respected forefront of American dance styles with a tone that creates a higher level of emotional introspection that doesn't exist in a traditional "battle".

"Contemporary Dance Theater (CDT) decided to present olive Dance Theatre for several reasons and one of those was to further acknowledge what the NEA has done by granting the company an American Masterpieces grant to reconstruct the work of Ken Swift, thereby recognizing Breakin' as a legitimate and valuable art form and part of the national (and international) culture. olive Dance Theatre and Ken Swift are presenting a bit of dance history and the culture of urban expression when they dance this weekend." says Jefferson James, Artistic Director of CDT.

Founded in 2002, olive Dance Theatre's works incite social change and creativity through the folk art of Breakin' or B-Boying and B-Girling. Artistic Director Jamie Merwin expresses, "our mission is to validate indigenous American hip hop dance forms specifically Breakin' through the creation of new dance theater works and the performance of these works domestically and abroad."

The dance group visits schools and community out-reach programs educating students of all ages on the history and technique as they did this past week in Cincinnati. In addition, the legendary Ken Swift is collaborating with Elementz Hip Hop and Murder Rock Crew in a local battle at CDT's College HIll Town Hall location 1805 Larch Ave from 12p-6p on Saturday, March 20. Prizes will be awarded. More information can be found at http://www.cdt-dance.org.

Breakin' Becomes a Landscape of Pop-Culture: A bit of Breakin' History Imagine the setting of a steamy summer early evening with a skillful young dancer spinning on the ground to the funk rhythms. This vision emerged on the scenes of NYC in the South Bronx during the early 1970's when dancers formed street dance-offs. Winners of the "battle were determined by innovative maneuvers unmatched in difficulty from "toprock" or standing positions to the infamous "downrock" of spinning ground movements and arm balances. Now, Breakin' is considered the oldest form of hip hop.

Performers, such as James Brown, dance teams like Rock Steady Crew which included Ken Swift and media forms like MTV ignited Breakin' into a phenomenon. Ken Swift's career with movies, such as, "Style Wars (1982), Graffiti Rock (1983) and Flash Dance (1983) brought tours to Europe and Asia spreading the word on an international level. And, the phenomenon continues, as Cincinnati will see this weekend at the Jarson-Kaplan Theater.

Don't miss the show: When: March 19 and 20 Where: Jarson-Kaplan Theater Downtown Cincinnati Time: 8:30p Cost: $27 & $22; $17 students and seniors; ETA member benefits apply. Tickets may be purchased at the Aronoff Center Ticket Office at 513-621-2787. More information on Ken Swift at http://www.breaklife.com

Salsa Love,

www.kamasalsa.com/www.examiner.com/www.kamasalsa.blogspot.com

Confessions of a purple leotard ballerina

2010-03-14T19:53:00.000-07:00

How I started dancing or confessions of a purple leotard ballerina

I was three years old when the dance world came to me. Little did I know at the time that acting like a frog, jumping up and down, turning out my toes and tumbling in somersaults across the floor would lead to a lifelong journey of dance.

The dance school that started it all was Janet Carlton's School of Dance in Mt. Healthy, Ohio. Not a bustling town by any means, Mt. Healthy was fully equipped with tiny shops and businesses along quiet streets but Janet's place made Mt. Healthy exciting. Every Saturday morning, cars of little girls clad in black leotard and tights were dropped off to the studio on McKinney Street. This was my home away from home for years.

Janet practiced technique and form utilizing all of her teachings as a professional ballerina: stand up straight was her motto. To ensure every little bottom was tucked in, she came around the room and pinched and poked our bums to stay in place. I was no exception.

I was no exception to any rule-but with all rules I somehow, even from an early age I always seemed to quietly break them. The other girls were always picture perfect with their clean black leotard, pink tights, curved ballet slippers to match their forming arches, thin bodies and neat buns pulled away from fresh faces. Then there was me. I mean ME!! On the other side of the room, I came in with my purple leotard, matching tights and, of course the famous pixie haircut...telling jokes and sharing stories. No one told me that a little girl with a budding body and not exactly a flat butt could not dance ballet. I kept going...and learning...and just trying to find my place on the dance floor.

Through performances, costumes and critiques I formed my love of dance. During college, it led me to study modern which accepted my body and craving for movement. Yoga straightened out my internal and external stuff (literally). But it was salsa that captured me.

I found salsa in Miami, Florida during a fashion design co op. During a night out, little did I know that I was at a salsa bar. As soon as I witnessed a sea of salsa dancers on the floor, I was hooked. It was their beauty and connection that struck me. Everyone as a dancer with salsa. This was home. This is it.

Soon after, my job opportunity in NYC fell through and I stayed in Cincinnati to find work and mold a career. Then, a friend and I went to The Corinthian and my salsa journey started. I found people from all over the world just like in Miami. I started dancing every night and soon started teaching with Ron Hamad at the Clifton YMCA.

Now, fourteen years later, I am still learning, teaching and dancing. I will never forget how I started, where I was and how dance made me feel. It took the first step and I hope to share it with others always.

Keep dancing and never be afraid to wear your own style.

Salsa Love,

2010-03-07T19:44:00.000-08:00

Celebrating Dance with The True Body Project

One of my missions in KamaSalsa is to reach out to people of all demographics and help them express themselves through dance. The chance came to me when Stacy Sims, Creator of The True Body Project and Owner of Pendleton Pilates asked me to teach a group of teenage girls who were brought together to learn about body image and find their authentic voices through music, movement, writing and theatre. This was in 2007, now three years later, I teach on a seasonal basis to women of all ages who come together for the open classes like the one on March 3rd at the Downtown Pendleton location.

The class starts with everyone sitting in a circle and listening to the True Body Constitution: We Believe in Breathing, We Believe in being a mother to all, We believe in healing ourselves through mind, body and spirit....... I'm always struck by the beautiful individuality of each woman with their unique presence and gifts to share. We start off by writing. This time it is about being good or bad which made me immediately go back to the power of dance and how we open ourselves up to the good and bad in each of us.

The good and bad of dancing can be taken literally like: "Wow! She is a good dancer!" or the bad- "Stay away from that guy...he can't lead." The other side of good/bad which comes from our emotion and expression. It's about rules(the good) and breaking them, too (the bad). We have to learn the rules to communicate the movement and know the lead and follow. The bad comes from expressing who we are as individuals and not getting so caught up in the mechanics. The balance brings out the true joy of movement..allowing each dancer to be connect, breath, be empowered.. be honest....and never forget how to laugh along the way.

Thanks to my friend Stacy for her vision. Thanks to all of the students who allow themselves to be free and know the balance of being good and bad at the same time. Check out the True Body Project at www.thetruebodyproject.org.

Salsa Love,

Di

2010-03-07T14:29:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's almost spring; time is really flying. Here are the goodies for this upcoming month including the new, hot Friday night Salsa Happy Hour class for beginners.

March Salsa Remedies:

Spring into Spring with Salsa Style:

KamaSalsa at True Body Project:
Every year I partner with The True Body Project teaching girls of all ages to embrace their inner beauty with dance and laughter. Last night, I was blessed to join the group again teaching and writing about Good Girl/Bad Girl. It was so much fun and a wonderful experience to be a part of an important organization.

KamaSalsa Joins the Cincinnati Recreation Commission!
Starting April 7th 6p-7p. KamaSalsa comes to Corryville Rec Center on Eden Ave for salsa fun.

Diana Joins The Examiner as Cincinnati's Dance Editor
Yep Guys, more dance in the future. I'll be writing about the dance scene from ball room to whatever gets people off the couch and moving. All articles will be posted on my blog.

Zumba with Amparo will return in April!!

New Level One Classes: Yes, more opportunities to spread the salsa love:
Tuesday, March 16 7p-8p
Friday Night New Happy Hour Class: March 12 7p-8p
and workshops: Level One Workshop: Saturday, March 6th 3p-5p

Workshops: All workshops are on Saturdays from 3p-5p. $20 with an rsvp
March 6: Level One
March 13: Rueda
March 20: Shines. Lead and Follow
March 27: Bachata

All other classes and practice sessions can be checked out on www.kamasalsa.com.

Thanks so much for your energy and love of dance. You are keeping our community growing.

Salsa Love,

Diana

2010-02-06T15:49:00.000-08:00

February is For Hot Salsa

Celebrate with red, hot salsa! Join the craze with new classes and opportunities to dance. Fall in love with dance. Here are the salsa sweets:

Join KamaSalsa Facebook today to receive all KamaSalsa event announcements.

February Valentine's Weekend Classes:

New Session for Friday Nights
Friday Night Happy Hour Level One
When: Starts Friday, Feb 12
Time: 7p-8p
Cost: $70 for six weeks

Workshop:
Level One
When: Saturday, Feb 13
Time: 3p-5p
Cost: $20

Workshops: RSVP TODAY!!
2/13 3p-5p: Level One. Learn basic to cross body lead in no time.
2/20 3p-5p: Lili's Ladies' Styling Class.
2/27 3p-5p: Bachata with Rob and Diana. We need men!!
All workshops $20 with RSVP/ $25 at door

Classes:
New Level One Weekly Session:
Tuesday Level One
When: Starts Tuesday, Feb 16
Time: 7p-8p
Cost: $70 six classes

Level One Advanced. Going strong!!! Join in if you have taken the foundation session.
Tuesday, 8p

Level Two: Hotter, than hot
Monday 7:30p

Level Three: Wow! You can't miss this one! February celebrates the Bring It On Challenge for all salseros. Pictures and announcements on the way....
Monday 8:30p

www.kamasalsa.com

Salsa Love,

Di

Salsa 2010: Enjoy The Dance with New Intentions

2009-12-27T08:06:00.000-08:00

Another decade has passed us by and now it's time to look ahead on what's in store for another round. Whether it's lose weight, meet new people, have more fun or add more energy to your life,-you can wrap it up in one package with salsa dancing.

If you already dance salsa, this might be your year to set new goals. What do you want out of your dancing? Is it to spin better, master a complicated pattern or be able to dance with more advanced dancers? No matter the intention, make it yours and live by it every time you come to class or practice. It will make your dancing fly and become more exciting.

Now, maybe you are out there wanting to learn and don't know how to start or know someone who wants to jump in the salsa pool. We all start somewhere, so here are some easy steps to help in the process.

1. The first suggestion is to seek out a great class that fits your schedule. Oh, yes, KamaSalsa offers super fun classes that really break down the foundation so you can get to the dance floor in no time. You can opt for a six week course or a Saturday workshop. Check out www.kamasalsa.com.

2. Listen to music. It's all about music! Entertain yourself and friends with getting familiar with the Latin rhythm. Go to Amazon.com to check out the array of salsa goodies. I also suggest Itunes.

3. Go to a club and watch other dancers. Or, come to a KamaSalsa practice session and chat with all the dancers who are now having fun. Listen to their story on how they got started.

4. When you come to class, don't have expectations of being a master salsa dancer in one session; it takes time and effort. Enjoy the journey. Registration is at class.

5. Stay focused and don't get discouraged if you don't understand the beat. Ask questions. Work with better dancers and keep going.

6. Come prepared. Buy the right shoes to make the experience even better. I suggest going to Diana's Dance in Blue Ash or check out www.appledanceshoes.com.

Salsa can be a life changing experience. So in 2010 enjoy the dance and the journey to discover more......

Check out all the new classes and beginner workshops at www.kamasalsa.com.

Salsa Love,

Di

Salsa Gift Certificates Make Spicy Christmas Gifts

2009-12-15T12:46:00.000-08:00

Are you scratching your head thinking of what to give co workers, friends and loved ones for Christmas? No one needs another sweater or a re gifted wonder from years past. How about a KamaSalsa gift certificate? These special ditties come in a gift card format and really light up the scene. Plus, you can jump in on the fun and not have to sit and look at the gift you really wanted all along.

Gift certificates have been the gift of choice and in these economic times they are a cost saver, too. Here are some ideas, so take note, roll up your sleeves and let me do the work for you:

1. A couple getting married bought gift certificates for their wedding party. All eight people danced the night away and had a blast at the rehearsal.
2. Boyfriends gained super points buying private lessons for their sweeties. Add a bottle of wine and make it a special night.
3. A mother bought gift certificates for her son who always wanted to dance but didn't know how to start (this one brings a tear).
4. One couple bought private lessons for their date night to each other.
5. A friend bought certificates for her entire family and they partied on Christmas and waited until spring for their celebration. They still talk about it.

So, what would be your reason? Pick up the phone or email. You can purchase private lessons or flex passes. Private lessons run $50 for an individual or $75 for a couple and flex passes are $70 per person.

You'll find the salsa beat all year with this gift. Contact Diana at diana@kamasalsa.com for more information.

Salsa Love,

Di

2009-11-03T08:11:00.000-08:00

Health Benefits of Salsa Dancing:

Imagine you are out on the dance floor laughing and loving every moment of the salsa beat. You might be thinking of joining a salsa class for fun or maybe to lose some weight and stay fit. Salsa dancing offers a combination of health benefits beyond just having a good time and enjoying the music.

In a recent study by the Mayo Clinic, researchers reported that social dancing helps to:
-Reduce stress
-Increase energy
-Improve strength
-Increase muscle tone and coordination

The amount of calories that are burned per minute depend on the person's individual weight and speed of dancing. However, on average for a 150lb person dancing at a medium speed, dancing can burn as many calories as riding a bike or swimming. Check out these figures:

Swing Dancing: 235 calories per hour
Ballroom Dancing: 265 calories per hour
Salsa Dancing 420+ calories per hour. Yep, you can lose weight while having fun at the same time!
Aerobic Dancing: 540+ per hour

In addition, another study conducted by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute reports that dancing can:

-Lower the risk of heart disease
-Decrease blood pressure
-Manage weight
-Strengthen the bones of the legs and hips.

In a total picture, the mental benefits combine for a complete mind and body connection. Not only does dancing increase confidence, but develops communication and social skills. Studies have also shown a decrease in depression and Alzheimer's Disease. In this study by the New England Journal of Medicine participants over the age of 75 engaged in reading, dancing and playing musical instruments had a 7% lower risk of dementia compared to others who weren't active. By increasing the activity to 11 days a month, the results increased to a 63% lower risk. See? remembering all those moves really pays off!

So, keep dancing. You'll have fun, lose weight and keep your mind, body and spirit happy.

2009-10-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

Salsa Etiquette

So, you thought you were ready for the dance floor and all the sudden your in the arms of some "swaggy" salsero who starts telling you what to do or saying you are wrong. Better yet, someone starts pushing or pulling on the dance floor. Salsa is meant to be a fun way to meet people but every now and then, a salsa prankster comes across and you have to be prepared.

Salsa Etiquette is as important as learning the foundation steps or pattern. On a positive note, with good social skills men and women alike can gain points on the floor and have more dance partners (I call it the Golden Ticket).

Personally, I have been thrown, stomped on, bumped and bruised by salseros and salseras. I'm sure nothing was intentional, but it certainly raised my attention to creating good social habits to all students and experienced dancers alike.

I'd like to start with a side of what makes a great dancer

1. A good dancer leads/follows to the level of the partner and doesn't try any tricks to impress that might throw them off.

2. A good dancer leads/follows with the rhythm of the music.

3. A good dancer smiles, pays attention to their partner and thanks them for the dance. Hey, it's all in the presentation.

4. A good dancer never gets in the way of other dancers on the floor and is aware of his/her own space. Remember: Keep the steps tight and the frame in equal distance of your partner.

5. If you step on someone-always apologize.

Salsa is all about non verbal communication. A smile (and a mint) can go a long way. A more confident, experienced dancer knows that talking someone through a move is not dancing. Better yet, telling someone they are wrong is the kiss of death on the floor. Check out these tips:
1. Check in with yourself before you tell someone they are off beat.

2. Step away from someone who might hurt you.

3. If someone ever tells you that you are wrong, kindly and calmly step away. Ok, then run!!

4. If someone is clamping on to your hand, gently open your hand and tighten your frame. If they continue, be polite and tell them to lighten their grip so you can dance and have fun.

5. Don't start teaching on the floor. Everyone wants to teach. Believe me, it takes work, so just dance. Help someone out if they are having trouble but don't go into a full blown class. Also, if you mess up don't get discouraged-just try again and keep it positive for all.

6. Find a place on the floor and dance within the space so you don't run into anyone. A level one dancer usually should stay in the middle of the room and not get in the way of more advanced dancers who usually find a place on the side.

7. Hey, if you are just watching-stay out of the way of dancers. You don't want to lose your beer, right?

Our salsa community is growing be the minute: Keep it safe and fun.

Salsa Love,

Di

Get Your Salsa ON! Intensives and Hip Tips

2009-09-06T18:08:00.000-07:00

This is what you need to get to the dance floor in no time! So no more excuses about not having the time or being afraid to commit. Just come out and get ready to have a blast!

Learn the foundation of salsa from the basic step, turns and beginner partner work. No partner necessary. Group discounts.

Level One Intensive
Where: Delta 1018 in Mt. Lookout
When: October 17th
Time 3pm-5pm
Cost: $25 or group discounts for over 10 members

Level Two Intensive
This workshop takes you from the foundation to the basic cross body leads that make up dance patterns. It's a pattern class but no partner is necessary. All students must know the basic footwork otherwise it's no fun!
When: October 24th
Time: 3pm-5pm
Where: Delta 1018
Cost: $25

Musicality Workshop: How To Find The Beat
Do you find you are always looking for the beat or a step or two off beat? Here is your answer! Diana and Gary will broaden your horizons on the dance floor so you gain more confidence and have fun. Open to all levels.
When: October 31st you can wear costumes
Time: 3pm-4:30pm
Where: Delta 1018
Cost: $20

Need some tips to get started? We all need a little salsa encouragement to jump in! Even with my background in dance, I needed some incentive to get to the right place to find the right people. Here are some helpful hints:

1. Go to a salsa club or event and watch the dancers. Are they having fun? Who looks smooth? Ask around where they learned and why.
2. Search the internet for the right teacher. Look for someone who has a lot of experience and loves what they are doing. It will show in your salsa journey.
3. Look for the right shoes. Salsa shoes make all the difference so don't spend money on the perfect pair of sassy shoes. You save money and look better by purchasing a great stylish Latin shoe. Guys, too should wear a complimentary shoe for dancing with smooth synthetic or leather soles.
4. Sign up for a six week lesson if that fits or better yet, try an intensive to get you going. Bring friends to make it a party. Hint: The KamaSalsa Get Your Salsa On Intensives are perfect for a quick salsa fix.
5. Get ready to change your lifestyle and have a blast.....

Salsa Love,

Di

Don't Give Up

2008-11-07T11:50:00.000-08:00

I see a lot of students come and go into the first salsa class. Many of whom come for fun, a new experience or because they were directed by a friend or spouse. Standing before a fresh group, it's easy to see the tension in everyone's eyes from past dance traumas, comments from peers or the infamous Dancing With The Stars Syndrome. No one, even those with trained, are going to jump out on the dance floor ready for every salsa contest. It's just not the way. Learning salsa is like a language; you have to use it everyday and learn from mistakes. It takes a certain stick-to-it attitude and determination that makes a confident dancer and one who is fun to dance with!

The learning curve in salsa comes from being open to new experiences and vulnerable to allow yourself to fall, have fun and listen to the details. Think of it like learning to walk..you are going to fall and forget what you learned five minutes ago. So, here are some suggestions.

1. Approach learning salsa with a calm attitude and not try to expect so much in the beginning. That way you won't set yourself up for failure.

2. Listen to every detail from the teacher or video. Salsa is not about the patterns, but expressing yourself to the music and your partner. In that way you will find a greater achievement from the dance and probably enjoy it more.

3. Become friends with the people in class. Exchange phone numbers, email addresses and go out and show your stuff. It's the social community that keeps it going.

4. Be proud of who you are as an individual without comparing body shape, background and experience.

5. Listen to salsa and love the music. That is what it is all about.

6. Don't get discouraged if you mess up or forget a move. Come to class with an intention, bring a camera or notebook. Oh! did I forget to mention: Come to class!!

7. Ask lots of questions and never say you know it all because, well, you don't.:) I am always learning.

8. Create goals for yourself and get others involved to help you.

9. Ask questions to the members of your local salsa band about the music and instruments so you know what you are dancing to.

10. Salsa a day will keep the doctor away. IF you dance or do something salsa related everyday, the enjoyment will grow. Don't come to class only once a week and expect great things. Take all that you can.

Never give up your opportunity to learn so keep coming to class, relax and enjoy the salsa.

Salsa Love,

Diana

October Post: Practice

2008-10-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

Learning salsa comes with expectations of becoming a fantastic dancer in a short amount of time. It's difficult, especially for men to live up to expectations on the dance floor. Every individual will embrace salsa for their own reasons but no matter the list, practice is the key element when it comes to improvement, understanding and connection on the floor. And, of course it means having more fun. Here are some tips to practice and keeping the salsa journey going...

1. Be patient with yourself. Don't expect to be the best dancer on the floor the first time you are out there.
2. Come to class with intentions of how you want to improve. Bring a camera or notebook to remember the moves.
3. Listen to the music.
4. Study videos of salsa dancers.
5. Find a partner in class or in the community

And....come to the KamaSalsa practice session every Saturday from 2-3pm. For a small fee of $5, you can bring a partner and work on new or old patterns, shines, alternative Latin dances. I will be there to facilitate and answer any questions.

No matter, keep dancing!

Diana

Salsa Musicality: The Hunt For the Beat

2008-07-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

The Musicality of Salsa: The Hunt for The Beat

The Salsa Hunt seems like an endless task to achieve the ultimate dance experience: from finding a dance partner, the right class, the right shoes, the right place to dance…and the list continues. See what we do for a chance to dance? But it’s the Hunt for The Salsa Beat that drives the dancers back for more. The salsa energy is the reason.

Observing two dancers connecting on the dance floor is spellbinding especially if they create a seem less flow of patterns and styling. Take the same couple and if one is off-beat….the entire dance is awkward. No matter the pattern, finding the beat and following it is the key to connection on the dance floor.

Finding the Beat:

First start with knowing what kind of salsa is danced in class or on the dance floor (salsa on 1, salsa on 2 or cumbia). The Salsa On 1 foundation comes from a system of a 4/4 timing (1 2 3 4 then 5 6 7 8) following two measures. The dancer breaks with a stronger accent on the first beat of the measure on the 1 and 5 while transitioning the weight on the 4 and 8. This melodic rhythm repeats with various musical elements, such as, clave, piano, hooks, conga tumbao, bass rhythm and trumpet phrases. A dancer should express all beats within the two measures and not stop for the midbreak. This causes a missed beat or directs the dancer into a faster or slower tempo.

Here are some suggestions
1. Start the dance by counting 5,6,7,8 to bring you to the first break.
2. Listen for the downbeat or clave.
3. Practice listening everyday. I listened to Gloria Estefan’s Mi Tierra everday in my car. Make yours a concert! Soon everyone around you will join in.
4. Develop an ear for various tempos to distinguish the beat from slow to fast.
5. Watch and study seasoned dancers as they express the beat.
6. Keep an inner count, but don’t count out loud or loose your breath!
7. Pick an instrument in the band to follow. More about the instruments of a salsa band in the next article.
8. Develop a library of favorite salsa songs. Here are just a few:
a. Sonora Carruseles Heavy Salsa. I always play Micaela
b. Susie Hansen-The Salsa Never Ends-La Salsa Nunca Se Acaba
c. Salsa Fresca compilation-all the songs are great for beginner salseros.
d. Rough Guide to Salsa volume 1 and 2
e. Old School Salsa Classics compilation filled with hard driving salsa rhythms.
f. El Gran Combo-a classic band from Puerto Rico and a fav amoung many musicians.

Your salsa journey should never end. Keep listening and finding out more about what you like and don’t like in a salsa song and make it yours. Listen to it every morning and then ask a friend to dance to it. Your salsa will never be the same.

I’ll be covering new topics in Latin dance every other week for your salsa hunting and gathering needs. Let me know your experiences, questions or concerns. It will make the hunt a lot easier.

Check out www.kamasalsa.com for all class information.

Salsa Love,

Diana

Salsa 4 Lunch Program

2008-07-01T06:40:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to present the Salsa 4 Lunch corporate programs. This program is designed to bring Latin dance and it's benefits directly to employees. Not only is dancing a form of fitness and life balance, but it transcends into interpersonal communication, improved moral and community. The best part-it's easy for you and a blast for your employees. Here's more....

Salsa 4 Lunch Your employees can enjoy the benefits of Latin dancing and culture in a fun, energetic way! Now, Diana Hoffman from KamaSalsa brings her years of teaching experience to your facility or off site with classes and Latin dance samplings. It's so easy; everything is done for you! The class includes salsa, merengue, cha cha and bachata in a line dance format. This is not a partner dance class, but an inviting, casual format for your employees to learn Latin dance and have fun doing it!

Here are just some of the benefits of Salsa 4 Lunch:
-Create a positive morale among employees
-Develop a forum for healthier, happier work/life balance
-Get employees involved in cultural community events
-Open employees up to diversity

Salsa 4 Lunch Meetings: Brain storming and training can be hard work! Get your employees energy up and running by adding salsa to your meeting. The format is a basic salsa class instructed in a fun and casual environment. In addition to movement, salsa also increase listening and interpersonal communication skills in an innovative way. 30 minute format, but can vary depending upon the meeting.

After Work Events: Salsa can add sizzle to any after work get together. Simply add food and you are in for an energetic, groovin' time for your employees. On site or at Boost Meeting.

Price Structure:Salsa 4 Lunch Sampler on site-half hour introduction workout, meeting or after work party. $150Salsa 4 Lunch on site-one hour workout class, meeting or after work party. $275 Salsa 4 Lunch off site at Boost Meeting on Reading Rd Downtown Cincinnati. Call for pricing www.boostmeeting.com Package rates are available: six pre paid full hour sessions. $1500 (usually $1650).

Call Diana for more information with any questions!
Contact Diana Hoffman 513-324-1648
diana@kamasalsa.com www.kamasalsa.com www.salsa4teens.comsalsa4lunch