The Samba:
The Samba was imported from Brazil and was introduced to the DANCE MASTERS ASSOCIATION of New York in 1929. Like many Brazilian dances, the music is based on Negro rhythms combined with an expressive melodic line, usually in 2/4 time and written in a major key. It is a serenade in form, with repetitions of the melodic pattern continually interrupted by strumming of a stringed instrument. It first became famous in Rio de Janeiro and later the fascinating form was taken up by serious Latin American composers.
The Samba is danced in a moderate to slow tempo in South America, but usually to a faster tempo in the United States . However, at a slower pace, one has more control and the tantalizing elements of the dance may be more easily affected. The basic spring-like knee action, a fall and rise movement called the “Samba Pulse” must be continuous, with emphasis on the downward rather than the upward movement.
The brightly spirited dance has endured the test of time and now ranks high among the popular social dances. The Bronze Samba music is usually written in 2/4 time (some are written in 4/4 time) and should be played at a tempo of 52-56 measures per minute for examinations and competitions.
he Samba is a spot dance, however some progression along the Line of Dance is seen. Steps are generally quite compact, with feet no more than 12 inches apart, however, slightly larger steps are sometimes taken when more progression is needed. Samba Pulse is used throughout the dance, unless otherwise indicated. The spring-like knee action of the Samba Pulse can be danced smoothly with only slight flexing and rise; or with a more pronounced and spirited flexing and rise, as the music directs. This dance has a forward and backward movement of the upper body, called the “Pendulum Motion,” as well as a rolling effect executed on some turning figures.