The Waltz

The Waltz is the oldest of the ballroom dances. It was originally started in Vienna Austria. In the seventeenth century it became the dance of royalty as it was performed on the ballrooms of the finest royal courts. As Napoleon invaded Europe his soldiers carried the waltz from Germany to France. It was later brought to England then made its' way to the United. The original 'Viennese' Waltz had a very fast tempo and the popularity of the dance was enhanced by the compositions of Strauss and other famous composers.

Toward the end of the Nineteenth Century a slower version of the Waltz was introduced. This version was slower with long gliding steps, fewer turns and more back and forward movement. This style developed in the United States and adopted by the English is credited with the beginning of what is now known as the International Style. The American Style of Waltz has more open positions and the partners may even separate for a few steps.

The Waltz has a character of elegance and gracefulness with a beautiful rise and fall and is expressed by travelling around the ballroom floor.

Today the Waltz is danced socially, competitively and is often a favorite for wedding couples as their first dance.