The Rumba:
The Rumba, which originated with the African slaves of Cuba more than 400 years ago, is that tantalizing rhythm that first invaded the USA in the early 30s, and remains one of our most popular social dances. The earliest form of the Rumba was an expressive pantomime danced by natives under the spell of elemental music. Our social Rumba is, of course, a far cry from these fascinating primitive demonstrations. Danced properly, the Rumba is a delightful favorite, characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a rather heavy walking step.
Of the three styles of Rumba introduced to the USA , the Bolero-Rumba, the Son-Rumba, and Guaracha-Rumba, only the Bolero-Rumba (shortened to Bolero) and the Son-Rumba (shortened to Rumba) have survived the test of time. The Guaracha-Rumba quickly faded from vogue when the more exciting Mambo was introduced to Americans in the later 1940s.
Rumba music is written in 4/4 time and should be played at a tempo of 32-36 measures per minute (Son-Rumba tempo). The following rhythm is mandatory: Quick, Quick, Slow – Quick, Quick, Slow, which translates musically into 1, 2, 3, (hold 4).
The Rumba is danced in a spot rather than moving around the room. The steps are quick compact with foot placement usually no more than 12 inches apart. A smooth, subtle, Latin hip movement is used throughout the Rumba. Latin Hip Movement is the authentic roiling lateral motion of the hips, which occurs as each step is taken. Although Rumba is not danced with the same body contact that is used in some of the smoother dances, such as Fox Trot, there may be times when partnership looks and feels more attractive when a closer contact is used.
Your Rumba lesson begins by the two dance partners facing each other in dance position. The man's right hand is placed on the lady's back just below the shoulder blade with his right elbow held up and away from the body. His left elbow is held in the same manner as the right elbow with his left hand extended up. The lady then places her left hand on the man's right shoulder and allows her arm to lightly rest along the man's right arm. Her right hand is placed in the man's left. If you are practicing alone, extend your arms out in front of you with your elbows bent as if in dance position.