This vintage book is a complete handbook on ballroom dancing. With theoretical expositions, step-by-step instructions, historical information, and much more, this is a volume that will be of considerable utility to those with a serious interest in learning a range of ballroom dances from the swing waltz to the tango. Contents Include: “Foreword”, “Preface”, “Introduction”, “Glossary of Abbreviations”, “Technical Terms”, “Description and Outline of 'The Commonly Known Variations'”, “Waltz (Associate)”, “Waltz (Member and Fellow)”, “Foxtrot (Associate)”, “Foxtrot (Member and Fellow)”, “Quickstep (Associate)”, etc. Many vintage books such as this are increasingly scarce and expensive. It is with this in mind that we are republishing this volume now in an affordable, modern edition complete with a specially commissioned new introduction on dance.

Describes the history of ballroom dancing; presents photo-illustrated instructions for the waltz, foxtrot, tango, Viennese waltz, rumba, merengue, samba, cha-cha, mambo, East Coast swing, and hustle; discusses such topics as timing, rhythm, practice, and expectations; and includes an eleven-track audio CD.

Ballroom dancing has become an increasingly popular pastime for all ages, inspired in recent years by reality TV dance programmes throughout the world. As one of the most inclusive dance genres, it offers both a social and competitive outlet for every ability. The Essential Guide to Ballroom Dance offers a comprehensive study of the main ballroom dance styles, including the Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep and Tango. Topics covered include a brief history and development of ballroom dancing; a beginner's guide to partnerships, positioning and footwork; dance-specific techniques, steps and routines; the mechanics, application and fundamentals of movement; musicality and choreography and, finally, exercises, diet and nutrition. With clear step-by-step instructions, 150 colour photographs, and a foreword by Anton Du Beke, this is an ideal companion for the beginner ballroom dancer. Janet Cunningham-Clayton is a former Senior British Ballroom Champion and has over twenty-five years of dancing experience, and Malcolm Fernandes has over thirty years experience in the ballroom dance industry with a particular specialism in music.

An instruction and technique quide for learning to dance the American style waltz, tango, foxtrot and Viennese waltz.

A step-by-step guide to learning five different social dances including the swing, cha-cha, fox-trot, waltz, and polka, with illustrations that show proper technique, suggestions for detecting and correcting errors, practice drills, and checklists for evaluating progress; includes a music CD.

First Published in 2002. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.