Welcome to Fred Astaire Dance Studio, where passion meets precision, and elegance and rhythm intertwine. Located in the heart of Durham, North Carolina, our studio offers unparalleled ballroom dance lessons that cater to dancers of all levels and aspirations.
Whether you’re a beginner stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or a seasoned performer seeking to refine your technique, our experienced ballroom dance instructors are dedicated to guiding you on your dance journey.
Join us at Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Durham, where every step is an opportunity to discover the joy and artistry of ballroom dance.
Why Learn Ballroom Dancing?
Learning ballroom dancing offers a number of benefits to new dancers and experienced dancers alike. With benefits ranging from physical fitness and stress relief to social interaction and confidence building, ballroom dancing provides a creative outlet for self-expression and connection. As you embark on your ballroom dance journey, you’ll discover a world of joy, elegance, and personal growth, making learning ballroom dancing an enriching and fulfilling experience.
Types of Ballroom Dance Lessons in Durham
Our studio offers a diverse array of ballroom dance lessons in Durham, designed to suit every taste and skill level. Whether you’re drawn to the graceful movements of the Waltz or the fiery passion of the Tango, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
Our experienced instructors are dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive environment where you can learn, grow, and express yourself through the art of dance. Join us as we embark on a journey of elegance, rhythm, and joy through the various types of ballroom dance lessons to enjoy.
The Foxtrot
The Foxtrot is one of the most deceiving dances. It looks easy but is one of the most difficult dances to dance. The dance originated in 1913 when a vaudeville performer by the name of Harry Fox performed a little trot, which appealed to the social dance teachers in New York and thus the Foxtrot was born. It has gone through many changes since that time and is now comprised of more soft and fluid linear movements.
The Tango
The Tango originated in the bordellos of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and is danced in a slightly different way than other ballroom dances. The hold is very different, with the lady’s arm under the mans, which creates a tighter hold for quick staccato action and stylized poses.
The American Style Tango uses progressive body movements, including a staccato movement of the feet and flexed knees, to highlight the dramatic style of the Tango.
The Waltz
The Waltz appeared as a fashionable dance in Bohemia, Austria, Bavaria, and other parts of Europe in the late 1700s. Danced in 3/4 timing, the recurring, even beats of music send the dancers whirling around the floor, enjoying the thrill of the Waltz movement.
The Quickstep
The Quickstep, as the name implies, is a very quick and lively dance, comprised of hops, skips, and kicks. The dance began as a quick version of Foxtrot mixed with the Charleston, and musical Jazz influences.
The Viennese Waltz
The Viennese Waltz is a fast Waltz which originated in Austria. Joseph Lanner and Johann Strauss wrote the first waltzes in the early 19th century. In the middle of the 20th century, the German, Paul Krebs choreographed the Viennese Waltz style to which we dance today. The dance enjoyed a great deal of popularity not only in Europe, but also in America, and it has been used in many Hollywood productions.
Do I Need a Partner to Sign Up for Dance Lessons?
One of the most common questions beginners ask when considering ballroom dance classes is whether or not they need a partner. The answer? It’s entirely up to you! At our Durham ballroom dance studio, we welcome both individuals and couples to join our classes.
Ballroom Dance Lessons with a Partner
If you already have a dance partner in mind—a friend, family member, or significant other—you’re more than welcome to sign up together and attend classes as a duo. Dancing with a partner can enhance the learning experience, allowing you to practice lead and follow techniques, share the joy of mastering new steps, and enjoy the social aspect of dancing together.
Solo Ballroom Dance Lessons
If you don’t have a partner or your partner is unable to attend classes with you, fear not! Many of our dance classes are designed to accommodate individuals who come solo. Our experienced instructors are skilled at pairing up dancers during lessons, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to practice and learn regardless of whether they come with a partner or not.
In fact, dancing solo can offer its own set of benefits. It allows you to focus on refining your technique, rhythm, and style. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet new people and build connections within our vibrant dance community.
Sign Up for Ballroom Dance Lessons in Durham Today!
Whether you choose to join a class with a partner or on your own, you’ll find that our Durham ballroom dance classes offer a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to learn, grow, and have fun. Take the first step towards discovering the joy of ballroom dancing in Durham today.
Whether you want to learn something new or you’d like to brush up on your ballroom dancing skills, our experienced dance instructors will guide and encourage you through your dancing journey. With a new student introductory offer, now is the perfect time to sign up for a dance class at Fred Astaire Dance Studio.
To get started, call us at 919-489-4313 or fill out the contact form below!