What are American and International Styles of Dancing?



American Style

American Style dancing is based on social dancing and is primarily danced in the United States. American Style consists of two types of dance, Smooth and Rhythm dances. The only competitions that you will see American Style being performed at are those that are held in the United States.

American Smooth consists of four dances: Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, and the Viennese Waltz.

American Rhythm consists of five dances: Cha Cha, Rumba, East Coast Swing, Bolero, and the Mambo.


International Style

International Style dancing is danced all over the world in social dancing as well as in competitions. International Style is also broken down into two types of dance, Standard and Latin.

International Standard consists of five dances: Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Slow Foxtrot, and the Quickstep.

International Latin consists of five dances: Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, and the Jive.



What are the Differences Between International and American Styles of Dancing?



What is the difference between International Standard and American Smooth?

International Standard focuses more on the technical aspect of dancing in closed position. By dancing only in closed hold couples learn to develop the technical movements and characteristics of each dance and the partnering skills required  to dance as a couple.

American Smooth is more interpretive, allowing couples to dance in both closed and open positions. This gives dancers the ability to express themselves in the dances in their own creative way.


What is the difference between International Latin and American Rhythm?

International Latin is very structured focusing on technical actions and quality of movement. International Latin is very popular and danced in most competitions throughout the world.

American Rhythm was developed from social dance styles and like American Smooth focuses on open interpretation of the dances. American Rhythm, though fun and popular, is only danced in competitions in the United States.

For more information, call our Dance Hotline: 346-6025, or e-mail us at: oregonballroom@gmail.com