Viennese Waltz
History of the Viennese Waltz
The Viennese Waltz is probably the oldest form of ballroom dance. It emerged in the 18th century around 1750. Its precursors originate back to the 12th century to a dance of the Middle Ages known as the Round. The final turn of the dancing couple in the Round was the highlight of the dance, and this complete turn became characteristic of the Viennese Waltz. The ¾ time that makes Viennese waltz possible dates back at least as far as 1679 when “Das Lied vom lieben Augustin” was written.
Viennese Waltz Characteristics
The Viennese Waltz is characterized by its fast tempo, elegant turns, and continuous flow. Dancers perform a series of swift, rotating movements, maintaining a close embrace and fluidity. The dance is set to a 3/4 time signature, known for its rhythmic, graceful charm.
Viennese Waltz Music Information
The Viennese Waltz is set to music with specific characteristics that define its unique rhythm and style:
-
Time Signature: The music for the Viennese Waltz is typically in a 3/4 time signature, which means there are three beats in each measure.
-
Tempo: The tempo of the Viennese Waltz is notably faster than that of the standard Waltz, usually around 180 beats per minute (bpm). This creates a brisk, lively rhythm that drives the dance’s rapid turns and movements.
-
Rhythm: The rhythmic pattern of the Viennese Waltz is consistent, with an emphasis on the first beat of each measure, creating a distinctive “one-two-three” cadence that is central to the dance’s timing and flow.
-
Musical Style: The music is often classical and elegant, characterized by a flowing melody that complements the dance’s fluid and continuous motion.
Viennese Waltz Dancing Today
Today, Viennese Waltz is danced at the competitive level in both the International Standard and American Smooth Ballroom categories and is still a popular social dance in ballroom dance studios.
International Style Viennese Waltz is danced in a closed position and the syllabus is limited to certain movements including natural and reverse turns, changes, fleckerls, contra check, left whisk, and canter pivots. American Style Viennese Waltz is danced in both open and closed dance positions and has much more freedom than it’s International counterpart. It’s full of fun interpretations with a more theatrical feel leaving closed position to explore alternative holds, underarm turns and side by side choreography.
Viennese Waltz events, balls, and competitions are held throughout the world annually. Some of these events feature purely Viennese Waltz dancing while others include other styles of ballroom dance. In the United States, the Viennese Waltz has been brought to America’s pop culture forefront via famous TV shows such as “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars.” The grace, flow, and beauty displayed by Viennese Waltz dancers draw a mass appeal to any admiring spectators. It is a popularly requested dance at ballroom dance studios around the world.
With questions or to schedule your Private Dance Lessons to learn Waltz please contact us:
Phone: (281) 741-3242
email: info@ballroomdancesugarland.com
Currently lessons are being taught at DanceSport Club 11758, Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77031
New Student Special - 6 Private Dance Lessons $299
Start dancing with our "New Student Special" (new students only)! This introductory package will get you 6 private dance lessons for only $299. Price is for up to 2 people, can be a single person or a couple. After purchase, call or email us to schedule your first lesson!