Bachata Dancing!

Bachata dancing is another popular dance in the Dominican Republic. Much like the salsa, it is a very sexual dance that is performed all over the country. It originated in the countryside and rural neighborhoods of the Dominican Republic. In recent years it has become quite popular, but some people refuse to dance it claiming that it is "the dance of the poor."

The bachatas subjects are often romantic and involve tales of heartbreak and sadness. A famous Bachata singing group is Aventura. They sing of a lot of heartbreak and pain that coming from losing a loved one.

The bachata can be danced with or without a bounce and typically requires a lot of footwork and free style moves. With the bachata you typically keep the upper half of your body still and only move your hips.

Instructions are best described by Ashley Martinez (http://www.ehow.com/how_2129891_dance-bachatadance-bachata.html)

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• The song "No Es Amor" by Aventura
• A CD player
• Comfortable shoes

1. Step1

   Listen to the music to feel the rhythm. Starting counting along with the music "1, 2, 3, 4" and repeat "1, 2, 3, 4." Start stepping with the beats, moving horizontally.

2. Step2

   Lift the hip on the fourth beat. This dance is a three-step dance, so it will go, stepping horizontally, "right, left, right, lift the left hip," then the other side "left, right, left, lift the right hip."

3. Step3

   Step with the beat. Feel the rhythm of the music. As you get more advanced, your hips will initiate the movements. You won't think as much about the steps as you will about moving with the music.

4. Step4

   Grab your partner (who will mirror your movements) and sway together. Although this dance can be practiced alone, it is typically a partner dance

   Once you get the hang of it the Bachata is quite fun! Take your time and enjoy yourself. Look at this YouTube Video to see two Dominicans dancing the Bachata beautifully!