Latin Dances
Päivi Puranen
I am a Finnish PE teacher whose passion and hobby has always been dancing. Latin dances are my favorites and I love to teach them. I have been teaching young people at school, adults in many clubs and adult institute in Helsinki, Finland. I have visited Cuba several times and Cuban rhythms and style of dancing are my strengths. I also used to compete in Latin ballroom dancing.
Lesson Overview
Salsa
Cha-cha
Bachata
Jive
During Salsa lessons we will become familiar with the Cuban Salsa style. An essential part of the lessons is the cheerful and immersive music. Salsa is danced as a solo dance and in pairs. In my course we will dance solo Salsa. You do not have to have previous experience of dancing salsa. One can through oneself into the rhythm of Salsa equally as a beginner and as a more seasoned dancer.
During Cha-cha classes we will apply a competitive Cha-cha style. The name of the dance is based on the basic rhythm of the dance and the syncopated steps. The beat of the music is sharp and precise and, during classes, one can challenge oneself especially in learning the rhythm of Cha-cha music. Cha-cha is danced as a solo dance and in pairs. In my course we will dance solo.
Bachata is a social dance developed in the Dominican Republic. It is a romantic and passionate dance that combines different patterns and body movements in the steps. Bachata is danced as a solo dance and in pairs. In my course we will dance solo.
Jive is an fun, fast and energetic dance which includes kicking and spinning. This style has origin in early US jazz music. Jive is danced as a solo dance and in pairs. In my course we will dance solo.