Fred Astaire Dance Studios - San Mateo

West Coast Swing (or Western Swing) quickly gained popularity across the U.S. because of its sophisticated style and easy adaptation to contemporary rock music. A regional style popular on the West Coast of the U.S., the dance made a bid for national recognition in the late 50s and continues to grow in popularity in the 21st century.

The Waltz dates back to the country folk dances of Bavaria, some 400 years ago, but was not introduced into “society” until 1812, when it made its appearance in English ballrooms. During the 16th century, it was simply danced as a round dance called the Volte. In most dance history books, it is often stated that the Volte made its first outside appearance in Italy, and then later on to France and Germany. In those early days, the Waltz had quite a few different names. Some of these names were the Galop, Redowa, Boston and the Hop Waltz. When the Waltz was first introduced into the ballrooms of the world in the early 19th century, it was met with outrage and indignation. People were shocked by the sight of a man dancing with his hand upon a lady’s waist (as no proper young maiden would compromise herself so) and thus, the Waltz was thought to be a wicked dance. The Waltz did not become popular among the European middle class until the first decade of the 20th century. Until then, it was the exclusive preserve of the aristocracy. In the United States, where no blue-blood caste existed, it was danced by the populace as early as 1840. Immediately upon its introduction in this country, the Waltz became one of the most popular dances. It was so popular, it survived the “ragtime revolution.” With the advent of ragtime in 1910, the Waltz fell out of favor with the public, being supplanted by the many walking/strutting dances of that era. Dancers who had not mastered the techniques and whirling patterns of the Waltz quickly learned the simple walking patterns, which ushered in the ragtime rage and birth of the Foxtrot. In the latter part of the 19th century, composers were writing Waltzes to a slower tempo than that of the original Viennese style. The box step, typical of the American style Waltz, was being taught in the 1880s and an even slower waltz came into prominence in the early 1920s. The result is three distinct tempos: (1) the Viennese Waltz (fast), (2) medium Waltz, and (3) slow Waltz — the last two being of American invention. The Waltz is a progressive and turning dance with figures designed for both a larger ballroom floor and the average dance floor. The use of sway, rise and fall highlight the smooth, lilting style of the Waltz. Being a very traditional style of dance, the Waltz makes one feel like a princess or a prince at the ball! Whether you are interested in wedding dance instruction, a new hobby or a way to connect with your partner, or want to take your dance skills to the next level, Fred Astaire’s teaching methods will result in faster learning rates, higher levels of achievement – and more FUN! Contact us, at San Mateo Fred Astaire Dance Studios – and be sure to ask about our special Introductory Offer for new students! Our studio is located just 5 minutes from the Hillsdale Shopping Center.

The Viennese Waltz, as its known today, was first danced by European royalty during the era of the Austrian composers, Johann Strauss I and Johann Strauss II (1800s). Its hallmark charisma and social grace is typical of that period of history. The Viennese Waltz became the only dance of that era which is still performed by the American public. Waltz music expresses eloquently, the carefree gaiety of those bygone days that are so closely linked to Vienna, The Blue Danube and Strauss. The most startling innovation of the dance was the close proximity of the partners; so daring, it only became socially acceptable in Great Britain after it was danced publicly by Queen Victoria. It is a dance that requires a great deal of control and stamina, due mainly to the tempo of the music. The Viennese Waltz is a progressive and turning dance and features some figures that are danced in place. Rise and fall is used in the dance but differently than in other smooth dances. In Waltz and Foxtrot, a dancer will often rise above their normal standing height but in the Viennese Waltz that’s not done. Rise is created through the knees and body.

The Tango made its first appearance. It was instantly a hit with the dance-conscious public for its intriguing, asymmetrical, and sophisticated patterns which added a touch of romance to the country’s dance consciousness. The Tango has no clearly defined origin: it may have originated in Argentina, Brazil, Spain, or Mexico, but it clearly descended from an early Spanish folk dance, the Milonga, and bears traces of Moorish and Arabic ancestry.

When the Brazilian Samba was first introduced to the U.S. Dance Masters in 1929, it became an overnight sensation. Like many other Brazilian dances, the music is an amalgamation of African and Latin American rhythm that is adorned with expressive, melodic lines. In form, the Samba is a serenade; the repetition of its melody is continually interrupted by the strumming of a guitar or other stringed instruments. Originating in Bahia, Brazil, the dance first became popular in Rio de Janeiro, and later, its intoxicating rhythm was taken up by serious Latin American composers. The Samba is festive and lighthearted, and performed today in all parts of the world. It brings to mind pictures of Rio’s festive and exotic Carnival! In its native land, the Samba is usually danced to a moderately slow tempo which contrasts vividly with the spirited version favored in U.S. The Samba has withstood the test of time and still ranks high among social as well as competitive dancers.

Oozing with a sensuous style, Salsa has it all – passion, energy, and joy. As a dance form, Salsa has its origins in the Cuban Son and the Afro-Cuban dance, Rumba. As it relates to the popular music style, Salsa is continuously evolving, and new modern dance styles are associated and named according to the geographical areas that they are developed in. Some of the popular Salsa styles are Cuban, Columbian, Los Angeles, New York (or Eddie Torres Style), Palladium, Puerto Rican, Rueda, and On Clave.

The Guaracha-Rumba quickly faded in popularity when the more exciting Mambo was introduced to Americans in the late 1940s.

Of the three styles of Rumba that were introduced to the United States, the Bolero-Rumba, the Son-Rumba and the Guaracha-Rumba, only the Bolero-Rumba (shortened to Bolero) and the Son-Rumba (shortened to Rumba) have survived the test of time.

Of the three styles of Rumba that were introduced to the United States, the Bolero-Rumba, the Son-Rumba and the Guaracha-Rumba, only the Bolero-Rumba (shortened to Bolero) and the Son-Rumba (shortened to Rumba) have survived the test of time.

Rumba (or “ballroom-rumba”), is one of the ballroom dances which occurs in social dance and in international competitions. It is the slowest of the five competitive International Latin dances: the Paso Doble, the Samba, the Cha Cha, and the Jive being the others. This ballroom Rumba was derived from a Cuban rhythm and dance called the Bolero-Son; the international style was derived from studies of dance in Cuba in the pre-revolutionary period which was then popularized by the descendants of African slaves of Cuba. Its tantalizing rhythm first invaded the United Sates in the early 1930s, and has remained one of the most popular social dances. The Rumba is characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a heavy walking step.

The Quickstep, with its roots in Ragtime, was developed in the 1920’s in New York from a combination of Foxtrot, Charleston, Peabody and the One-Step. Originally it was danced solo – away from the partner, but later became a partner dance. It was originally given the name “Quick Time Fox Trot” but eventually that name was changed to Quickstep. The dance traveled to England and was developed into the dance that we know today, and was standardized in 1927. In a basic form Quickstep is a combination of walks and chasses but in an advanced stage hops jumps & many syncopations are utilized. It is an elegant and glamorous dance and body contact is maintained throughout the dance.

The Paso Doble (or pasodoble), in its classical form dates back many centuries and was originally intended for use at bullfights when the matador was victorious in the arena. The music adapted itself so beautifully to the dance that the villagers danced to the exciting, lively music for hours on end. Americans first viewed the Paso Doble when flamenco dancers used this music to dance the role of a bullfighter. It has been a favorite (in its ballroom version) since the 1930s. In the ballroom version of the Paso Doble, the gentleman usually portrays the bullfighter and the lady is his cape, although there are times when a very strong aggressive action in certain movements seems to suggest the actions of the bull. The Paso Doble moves around the floor and is characterized by sharp movements. A most helpful aid in acquiring the proper feeling is to visualize the pageantry of the matadors, as they make their grand entry into the bull ring and feel the attitude that is displayed during the fight.

Both Haiti and the Dominican Republic claim Merengue as their own. According to Haitian lore, an earlier ruler of their country had a lame son who liked to dance. In order that this beloved prince would not feel self-conscious about his affliction, the entire populace took to dancing as though they all were lame. The Dominican’s version is that the dance originated at a fiesta that was given to honor a returning war hero. When the brave warrior rose to dance, he limped on his wounded left leg. Rather than make him feel self-conscious, all the men present favored their left legs as they danced. In both countries for many generations, the Merengue was taught and danced with these back stories in mind. When couples got up to dance the Merengue, the man favored his left leg and the lady favored her right leg; while flexing their knees a bit more than usual and at the same time leaning the body slightly to the same side. Haitians and Dominicans alike refer to the Merengue as their “singing dance;” this is understandable when you consider the exhilarating brightness of the staccato rhythm. The Merengue is danced in place to Latin music.

The Mambo can be danced according to the individual dancer’s temperament. Conservative dancers can stay in a closed position, while the more daring can perform steps that break apart and completely separate themselves from each other. Spins and turns are quite popular with Mambo dancers.

The modern form of ballroom jive is a very happy and boppy dance, with many flicks & kicks. The Jive music is written in 4/4 time and should be played at a tempo of about 38 – 44 bars per minute. A spot dance not moving along the Line of Dance. Relaxed, springy action is the basic characteristic of the International Style Jive with lots of flicks and kicks in the advanced style.

In the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s, discotheques (or discos), with high quality sound systems and flashing lights became a popular form of entertainment in Europe and the U.S. Early ‘70s dancing in discos was mostly freestyle dancing (similar to the “rock” style exhibited by pop stars of the day like The Jackson 5) along with the prerequisite dress code of bellbottom pants and elevator shoes. In 1973, at a disco called The Grand Ballroom, a new type of “touch dance” without a name was being exhibited by females. This simple 6-count step with a very basic form, including inside and outside single turns, would give birth to what would later be called “Hustle.”

A ballroom dance step named after Harry Fox, a vaudeville dancer and comedian. It came into vogue around 1912 during the period of ragtime music, marking a new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced much closer together and ad-libbed to the new and exhilarating music.

Eastern Swing or East Coast Swing (or just Swing), evolved from the Lindy Hop and is perhaps the most famous American folk dance. The best known forms of Swing include the Charleston, Black Bottom, and Shag. In the early 1940s, these forms consolidated into what was called the Lindy.

Cha Cha is a dance of Cuban origin, and derives its name from the rhythm developed by a syncopation of the fourth beat. Cha Cha gathers its flavor, rhythm and charm from a derivation of three primary sources: the Mambo, Rumba, and indirectly, the Lindy (with each being danced to the same one-two-three triple step).

The Bolero was introduced to a U.S. audience in the mid-1930s; and at that time, it was danced in its classical form, which was performed to a constant beat of drums. It emerged from this classical form to what was called Son, with a faster and livelier tempo (later renamed as the Rumba). Spanish dancer Sebastian Cereza is credited with creating the dance in the year 1780; since then, the Bolero has remained a true source of expressing sensuous feelings. It is truly the “dance of love.” The Bolero is one of the most expressive dances: the use of arms and hands, legs and feet, as well as facial expression, all contribute to its beauty.

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or a way to connect with your partner, want to improve your social life, or want to take your dancing skills to the next level, Fred Astaire Dance Studios will have you dancing confidently – and having FUN from your very first lesson!

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios of San Mateo, you’ll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your very first lesson! Contact us in San Mateo, CA today. Together, we’ll make your dance dreams a reality, and have lots of fun doing it!

Take your dancing to the next level! Our instructors will be able to help you achieve your goals. Whether you want to become a competitive dancer or just dance to have fun, our instructors will guide you in the right direction. Check out our studio 30 minutes outside of downtown San Francisco.

Book Your Free Introductory Lesson Today! Learn Faster, Achieve More… Have More FUN! Through a variety of different teaching methods, we ensure you not only learn as much as possible in the shortest amount of time but make sure you retain everything you have learned… and have the most FUN doing it!

Book your free introductory lesson today and start your dancing journey with Fred Astaire Dance Studios-San Mateo.

This includes one group class session lasting 45 minutes and one party session lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes.

This is a private lesson lasting 45 minutes, part of a holiday gift special offer for new students.

Ballroom dancing offers numerous benefits for kids, fostering both physical and personal development. It provides a fun and engaging way for children to stay active, improving their coordination, balance, and overall fitness. Beyond the physical perks, ballroom dancing teaches essential social skills, such as teamwork, respect, and communication, as children learn to collaborate with their dance partners. It also builds confidence and discipline as they practice routines and perform in front of others. Moreover, ballroom dancing exposes kids to diverse music and cultural styles, enhancing their appreciation for the arts and global traditions.

Group activities such as ballroom dance lessons can expand your sense of social “connectedness”, which is beneficial to lowering stress and depression levels. Ballroom dance is similar to the practice of mindful meditation (which has been shown to significantly reduce levels of depression and stress) in that it requires you to fully focus your attention, and be present in the moment.

Partner dancing can also decrease loneliness among all age groups, because it’s a goal-oriented social activity that brings like-minded people together.

Beginner dancers especially will notice that the more you dance, the more flexibility and range of motion your body develops. Increased flexibility will help your dance abilities, decrease joint pain and muscle soreness after exercise, and improve core strength and balance.

Ballroom dancing is that perfect combination of physical activity, social interaction, and mental stimulation, and it can bring so much to your life. It’s a great workout; has documented physical and mental health benefits; can enhance your social life and self-confidence; reduces stress and depression; promotes relaxation; is a wonderful outlet for self-expression and creativity; and it’s FUN!!

The Quickstep has its roots in 1920s New York City Ragtime, and only later became a partner dance. Learn More

The Viennese Waltz was first danced by European royalty in the 1800s, and was deemed startling due to the close proximity of the dancers. Learn More

The Waltz dates back to Bavaria 400 years ago, but it was not introduced into “society” until 1812, when it first appeared in English ballrooms. Learn More

In 1912, Vaudeville dancer Harry Fox was the first to use the “slow step”, danced to an exhilarating new style of music – ragtime. Learn More

The romantic Tango descended from an early Spanish folk dance, and features intriguing asymmetrical and sophisticated dance patterns. Learn More

Although the exact origins of the dance (and the world) are lost to legend, Tango originated in Argentina in the late 1800s Learn More

This style evolved from popular American dances of the 1930s such as Jitterbug, Boogie-Woogie, Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, etc. Learn More

This dance dates back many centuries, and was originally intended for use at bullfights when the matador was victorious in the arena. Learn More

Classic Bolero, introduced in Spain in 1780, is truly the “dance of love”, and is performed to music featuring a constant beat of drums. Learn More

Of Brazilian origin, this festive serenade features a repetitive melody, continually interrupted by the strumming of a guitar. Learn More

A Cuban dance derived from the Mambo and Rumba; its name comes from the rhythm developed by a syncopation of the fourth beat. Learn More

Characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a heavy walking step, Rumba first invaded the U.S. in the early 1930s. Learn More

Lore has this dance originating at a royal fiesta honoring a returning war hero, in either Haiti or the Dominican Republic. Learn More

With its sophisticated style and easy adaptation to contemporary rock music, this 1950s style quickly gained popularity in the U.S. Learn More

East Coast Swing evolved from the Lindy Hop in the 1940s, and is perhaps the most famous American folk dance. Learn More

A more modern entry, this disco style was most popular in the nightclub scene from the late 1960s through the 1970s. Learn More

First introduced in Latin America in the 1930s, Mambo attained instantaneous popularity in American film and pop culture. Learn More

Salsa combines passion, energy, sensuous style and joy, and has its origins in the Afro-Cuban dance, Rumba. Learn More

The Bronze Trophy Program, our most popular!, which enables students to dance on any size dance floor, to any music, with any partner, and feel comfortable and confident.

Our Beginner and Social Foundation Programs teach newer students the step patterns and techniques to move comfortably around the dance floor.

Regularly scheduled practice parties complete the information taught in your private lessons and group classes. At San Mateo’s Fred Astaire Dance Studios practice parties, we turn down the lights, turn up the music, and enjoy time dancing with different people in a relaxed social setting.

Group classes complement your private lessons, because this is where patterns, technique, and style are learned. Group classes also enable you to meet other students with similar dancing goals, develop balance, and learn the mechanics of dancing.

Private lessons, with one or more dance instructors, give you the specialized and personalized attention to look and feel confident on the dance floor, while developing the ability to lead or follow any partner. We move at your pace, perfecting and polishing your dancing all the while.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we are experts at all styles of ballroom dance – and can incorporate any one (or more!) of them into your Wedding Dance choreography. From a classic Waltz or Foxtrot or sultry Tango, to a fun & lively Country Western Two-Step and more, our certified Dance Instructors can help!

The number of lessons you’ll want to take depends on the type of First Dance you want to create. Our certified Instructors and Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ proven method of teaching ensure that you’ll learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention, and the most FUN. We work with you to create a First Dance that fits your vision, in the amount of time you have available. We can guarantee you’ll feel confident and comfortable on your Wedding Day.

While wedding shoes are a beautiful accessory for your wedding attire, they are not always designed for comfort or movement. We recommend that you bring your wedding shoes to your first dance lesson, so your Fred Astaire Dance Studios Instructor can help you determine whether you can comfortably dance in them, or whether you should consider a pair of ballroom dancing shoes for your First Dance and reception.

We realize that some Students arrive for lessons straight from the office, and others may be dressed more casually for their lessons – either is fine. The most important thing is to wear something comfortable, which allows you to move easily. Of course, you’ll also want to select comfortable shoes. We suggest leather-sole shoes for gentlemen, and a shoe with a back for ladies (similar to what you might wear to go out dancing).

Yes! Including your parents (or friends or family members who will be standing in that role) in your wedding dance can make your time on the dance floor extra special, and it’s a demonstration of your love and appreciation for them. While our main focus and priority will be on your First Dance, we do suggest a few lessons for parents if you plan to feature a traditional Mother/Son and Father/Daughter specialty dance during your reception.

Absolutely! These days, more and more couples are including their wedding party in dance lessons – to create a unique dance routine, or even re-create a famous dance scene from your favorite movie, musical or video! A YouTube-worthy First Dance can be a show-stopping surprise for your friends and family, and will become moments you’ll all want to re-watch, again and again.

We offer special introductory packages that help you create a dream Wedding Dance that’s a great value. Beyond that, we will tailor a program to meet your individual goals and budget. Lessons with just the two of you can range from a few simple dance steps to a fully-choreographed dance. We can include your wedding party, for a YouTube-worthy routine.

It all starts with a free consultation at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. We’ll discuss your plans, and learn more about your dream Wedding Dance. We encourage you to bring along favorite songs, pictures of the venue & your wedding attire, examples of dance videos you love, etc. Everything you can share helps us understand your goals for the day, so we can help you create a Wedding Dance experience that will amaze your guests and make your wedding even more special.

If you’re reading this now, it’s probably time to get started because the longer you wait, the less time you have to create your dream Wedding Dance! Due to wedding couples’ typically hectic schedules, we recommend getting started at least 5-6 months before your wedding. This will give you plenty of time for scheduling lessons (for you, and possibly your parents and wedding party), and to truly feel confident with your dance.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, our Wedding Dance programs are tailored to you – your style & personality, and your priorities for the music and choice of dance. Our friendly, certified Dance Instructors can teach everything from a few simple dance steps to a fully-choreographed routine for your entire wedding party – it’s up to you!

From ceremony to reception, your wedding day is a celebration of your love for each other. Everything you’re planning – the venue, flowers, attire, food, music, and more will be a reflection of your style and personality, and your First Dance should be, too! For many couples, however, their First Dance can be a nerve-wracking experience.

Wedding dance lessons are a great way to have fun and relax before the Big Day. With all the decisions, schedules and deadlines involved in wedding planning, enjoying this time together that’s just for you can help you both de-stress and re-energize – and we promise you’ll have lots of fun doing it.

In just a short amount of time, our certified San Mateo Dance Instructors can help you learn a few basic steps, so you’ll feel at ease and confident on your wedding day. Have something bigger in mind? We can choreograph the whole dance with you – even include the wedding party! There are no hard & fast rules – so you decide on the plan.

Looking for something really memorable? We can choreograph a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for the whole wedding party, that’s set to your favorite music! Extend those special wedding day moments with an awesome routine you’ll want to re-live, again and again.

A memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a wonderful complement to your First Dance. Including your parents (or the special friends or family members who will be standing in that traditional role) in your wedding dance is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation.

Your First Dance is an everlasting expression of your love and commitment – for you and your new spouse, as well as for the special guests celebrating with you. From a few simple steps to get by to a fully choreographed routine, we can help make your first dance as unique as the rest of your wedding day.

Customize your Wedding Dance Instruction Programs to give you both the confidence and skills to show off your elegance, style – and maybe even a little personality on the dance floor, on your wedding day. We’ll help you create a special “First Dance” that’s totally “YOU” – be that elegant, contemporary or just plain fun.

We're proud to be a top destination for competitive ballroom dancing in the U.S. and around the world. Our students compete on both national and international stages, with many earning U.S. National titles — and some even reaching the highest level as World Champions. Whether you’re a child or an adult, dreaming of a high-level competitive career or simply looking to challenge yourself in a meaningful way — we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Rekindle the spark and reconnect through the joy of dance. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, our couples lessons offer a fun, low-pressure way to move together, laugh together, and grow closer—no experience needed.

Through private lessons, group classes, and social dance parties, you’ll improve your dancing while making genuine connections in a fun, supportive environment.

Through private lessons, group classes, and social dance parties, you’ll improve your dancing while making genuine connections in a fun, supportive environment.

Through private lessons, group classes, and social dance parties, you’ll improve your dancing while making genuine connections in a fun, supportive environment.

Dance Lessons for Individuals – No Partner Needed! Our studio is a welcoming space for singles looking to learn, move, and connect. Whether you’re dancing for fitness, confidence, fun, or to meet new people, we’ll pair you with an instructor, and you’ll be dancing in no time!

The gift of dance comes with music, joy, improved health, and new friends! Only one package can be gifted per individual or couple. Couples count as one (purchase of only one certificate necessary). No partner, or experience, necessary. Gift certificate cannot be combined with any other offer. Not redeemable for cash. No cash value. Non-transferable. Prices may include taxes and fees.

The gift of dance comes with music, joy, improved health, and new friends! Only one package can be gifted per individual or couple. Couples count as one (purchase of only one certificate necessary). No partner, or experience, necessary. Gift certificate cannot be combined with any other offer. Not redeemable for cash. No cash value. Non-transferable. Prices may include taxes and fees.

The gift of dance comes with music, joy, improved health, and new friends! Only one package can be gifted per individual or couple. Couples count as one (purchase of only one certificate necessary). No partner, or experience, necessary. Gift certificate cannot be combined with any other offer. Not redeemable for cash. No cash value. Non-transferable. Prices may include taxes and fees.

Book Your Free Introductory Lesson Today! Get Dancing, With This Special Introductory offer! Cheers to taking the first step on your dance journey.

1 Group 45min and 1 party - 1h 30 min

1 Private lesson - 45 min