Waltz

Waltz comes from the German word "waltzen," which means "to turn." The turn is the essence of the waltz step. The waltz is done in 3/4 time with an accent on the first beat of every measure. It is comprised of walking steps and side steps with the added characteristics of rise and fall, sway, rotation, and pendulum action. This styling makes the Waltz beautiful and elegant.

Waltz is also considered the forerunner of today’s popular dances. Beginning in 17th century Germany, it grew and was popularized all over the world with the music of Johann Strauss in the 20th century. It is a much disciplined dance. It is not easy to master quickly.

Many people consider tango to be the world\s first "forbidden dance." This is not so. The first dance to earn this distinction was the waltz, due to its nature and origins.  It was criticized on moral grounds by those opposed to its closer hold and rapid turning movements. Religious leaders almost unanimously regarded it as vulgar and sinful. Continental court circles held out obstinately against the waltz. In England, (a land of strict morals), the waltz was accepted even more slowly.

But as history repeats itself over and over again, the antagonism only served to increase the popularity of the waltz. The bourgeoisie took it up enthusiastically immediately after the French revolution. Paris alone had nearly seven hundred dance halls!

By the 1800\s, Paris had fallen in love with the waltz. It did not arrive in England until later, where it was first denounced, and then accepted. A final public acceptance of it in 1819 allowed the waltz to reach the popularity that it still has today.

Over the years, many people have danced the waltz for various reasons: As a dance for pure enjoyment at dances and balls. These events were great for socializing with friends and many new friends were made here. The waltz is also a major part of ballroom dancing competitions, with the moves being executed in expert fashion to fantastic music with the ladies wearing fabulous ball gowns in an array of colors and gentlemen in fines suits.

Today, the waltz is danced in all corners of the world. It is still popular and is danced by young and old alike. Its label as the "forbidden dance" has been taken instead by the tango, a dance that arose from the slums of Argentina. Waltz is the legendary symbol of beauty and romance. It is said to be the favorite dance of our fair sex.