afro-cuban classes in medellIN
As Medellín’s dance community expanded, internationally recognized Cuban social dance traditions increasingly influenced the local scene. One of the most important of these is Afro-Cuban dance, widely recognized as the African roots of salsa and often referred to within the dance community as afro-cuban movement or afro salsa. It is an excellent option for developing a more authentic style, learning to interpret music, and more naturally expressing yourself with your body.
What is Afro-Cuban Dance?
The term Afro-Cuban dance refers to a diverse range of dance forms that have their roots in the African rhythms and movements brought to Cuba during the transatlantic slave trade. Over generations, these influences merged with Spanish, Caribbean, and indigenous elements in Cuba. Many Afro-Cuban dances are closely connected to religious and folkloric traditions, particularly those of the Yoruba-based Santería religion, as well as secular social dances that have directly evolved into modern Latin dance styles.
Unlike many internationally taught social dance styles, Afro-Cuban dance places strong emphasis on grounded movements, fluid body isolations, rotational dynamics, polyrhythmic coordination, and deep musical interpretation. The dance emphasizes a strong physical and spiritual connection to the music, interaction, improvisation, and continuous expression of rhythm. Because Afro-Cuban dance developed as a cultural and social expression, it prioritizes storytelling, partner or community connection, and enjoyment of the music rather than prioritizing rigid choreographed performance.
Here is some basic information about Afro-Cuban dance to help you get started:
Ecosystem of Styles: Afro-Cuban dance encompasses a variety of distinct expressions, including Yoruba, Rumba, Palo, Arará, and Congo dances, each with its own specific rhythms, steps, and cultural contexts.
Grounded Movement & Isolations: The dance is heavily characterized by a low, grounded center of gravity, fluid torso and hip isolations, and highly coordinated, polyrhythmic body control.
The Sacred Orisha Dances: Yoruba dances are closely tied to the Orishas (Afro-Cuban deities) and are performed with specific, expressive movements that represent their unique attributes, elements, and mythological stories.
The Three Styles of Rumba: Rumba, one of the most well-known secular Afro-Cuban social dances, has three primary styles: Yambú (slow and sensual), Guaguancó (playful and flirtatious), and Columbia (fast and acrobatic).
Percussive Foundation: Percussion is a key element in Afro-Cuban dance, with instruments such as congas, batá drums, bongos, chekeré, and the foundational clave providing the complex rhythms that dancers follow.
Root of Latin Dance: Many major Latin dance styles, including salsa, son, mambo, and pachanga, have direct roots in Afro-Cuban dance, making it a foundational style for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of Latin dance.
Musical Connection: The connection between the dancer and the music is essential, with dancers interpreting the beats, melodies, and energy of live or recorded drumming. Artists strongly associated with this musical ecosystem include Chano Pozo, Celia Cruz, Los Muñequitos de Matanzas, Irakere, and Grupo Afrocuba.
Class Schedule & Pricing in Medellin
DANCEFREE offers private Afro-Cuban dance classes in person in Medellín, Colombia, and online via Zoom and Google Meet. Our in-person classes are available 7 days a week, while our online classes are offered on weekdays only, subject to availability.
We have experienced Afro-Cuban instructors who teach students of all levels, from complete beginners to advanced dancers. If you would like to take private Afro-Cuban dance classes, click here to view the steps for beginning private classes. If you would like to view our calendar for salsa socials and more, click here.