Rhumba or Rumba

HISTORY OF RUMBA DANCING

Rumba is the spirit and soul of Latin American dance. The ‘rumba influence’ came in the 16^th century with slaves imported from Africa.  The Latin melodies, combined with the African rythms sparked a dance full of exagerrated hip movement and sensual body motion.  US interest in latin music picked up in the 1920’s, but it wasn’t until 1955 that Cuban Rumba, introduced by Pierre and Lavelle, was recognized as the official version. Its fascinating rhythms and bodily expressions make the Rumba one of the most popular ballroom dances.

RUMBA DANCE STEPS

The Rumba is the slowest of the Latin dances.  Its slower tempo allows for long, exaggerated hip motion, which draws attention to its sharp and crisp turns and pivots.  The most sensual of the Latin dances, it makes for an electrically charged dance.

WHAT LEARNING RUMBA WILL DO FOR MY DANCING?

Learning the Rumba is an excellent way for a dancer to break down and work on the many elements of Cuban Motion (hip action). Working on this motion in the slower tempos of the rumba will then smoothly transition into the faster tempos of the salsa or cha cha.  It will help a dancer concentrate on quick and accurate timing, while helping them learn momentum control and smooth rocks in all directions.

RUMBA MUSIC

Rumba music is written in 4/4 time, but covers a wide spectrum of speeds or tempos. The basic step of a rumba is counted out as slow (1,2) quick(3), quick(4); thus filling in the rhythm of the 4/4 time.   

EXAMPLES OF RUMBA MUSIC

And I love her- The Beatles
Fields of Gold- Sting
It’s now or Never- Elvis Presley
Besame Mucho- Xavier Cugat
Neon Moon- Brooks and Dunn
Under the Boardwalk- The Drifters
Beauty Queen- Maroon 5

WHERE I WOULD USE IT?

Rumbas are played in almost any dance environment.  It is an excellent dance for the beginning dancer to know because it can cover such a broad range of music and speeds. It is a great dance for a crowded dance floor as it does not require a lot of space.