Bachata

Latin Dance

Bachata

Bachata dance

Bachata is a form of music and dance that originated in the countryside and rural marginal neighborhoods of Dominican Republic. Its subjects are often romantic; especially prevalent are tales of heartbreak and sadness. Bachata grew out of – and is still closely related to the Latin-American romantic style called bolero. Over time, it has been influenced by Merengue and by a variety of Latin American guitar styles from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Colombia. Bachata music has four beats per measure. Three steps are taken to four beats of music. As with salsa, the step timing is three steps and then a one-beat pause. For ease of learning Bachata is counted in 8s to confirm with the other street Latin dance styles. The basic footwork is a series of simple steps that produce a back and forth or sideways motion. A schematic footwork would be as follows: starting with the right foot make a chasse to the right on counts 1, 2, 3. On 4, touch the left toe beside your right foot (alternatively, tapping the left toe in place, i.e., apart from the right foot, make an upwards jerk with the left hip). Then do the same from your left foot. The characteristic movements of the dance are achieved through sensual hip and body movements.

Music Pattern

The music itself is played in 4/4. The most recognizable aspect of Bachata instrumentation is the use of an amplified guitar, reverb, echo, or a combination of the three. The use of the bongo drum further solidifies the basic beat, and provides percussive accents.

The tempo is slow, typically 120 beats per minute.