Fred Astaire Dance Studio

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. West Coast Swing incorporates many forms of swing including the Lindy, Shag, Whip and Push. Versatile dancers, eager to display their talent, are continually innovating new and interesting movement in swing. After nearly five decades, Western Swing has endured the test of time, and as with the Eastern Swing, it is possible to dance in a relatively small area. The West Coast Swing is danced in place in a slot. Its slower tempo allows for freer rhythmic interpretations using single, double, triple and various other syncopated rhythms. A relaxed, sometimes shuffling movement and upright position are characteristic. Occasional use of hip movements and or push style is also used to enhance the style of the dance.

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.

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.

During the greatest period of the dance evolution in American history (1910-1914), 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Jive evolved from the popular American dances of the 1930’s such as Jitterbug, Boogie-Woogie, Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, Shag, Rock “n” Roll etc. Eventually all of these styles of dance would be coupled under the Hat of “Jive”, but in the 1940’s a combination of these styles was given the name “Jive” and the dance was born. During World War II American G.I’s took the dance to Europe where it soon became very popular, especially among the young. It was new, fresh, and exciting. It was adapted by the French and became very popular in Britain and eventually in 1968 it was adopted as the fifth Latin dance in International competitions. 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.

The Foxtrot dance step originated around 1912 during the ragtime music period. It marked a new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced closer together and ad-libbed to the music. By 1917, the emphasis shifted to smoother dancing and individualized expression, with the International style influencing the American style by 1960. Figures are designed for larger ballrooms but can be adapted for smaller spaces by dancing more compactly. Fred Astaire Dance Studios offers instruction for all skill levels.

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.

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 Cha Cha, while sprung up from Latin American roots in Cuba, really flowered under North American influence. While closely identified with the aforementioned Mambo, Cha Cha has enough intrinsic individuality to be classified as a distinct dance. Much has been written about the history of the Rumba and the Mambo, while little has been explored about the origins of Cha Cha, despite it being a dance to be reckoned with.

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.

Argentine Tango is a dance and music that originated in Buenos Aires at the turn of the century, developed in the melting pot of cultures that was Buenos Aires. The word Tango was used at the time to describe various music and dance.

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!

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

If you’re looking for something really memorable, let us choreograph a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for you & your entire bridal party, that’s even set to your favorite music! Extend those special wedding day moments with an awesome dance routine you’ll love re-living, again and again.

Memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances are a wonderful complement to your First Dance. Including your parents (or the special friends or family members who are standing in that traditional role) in your wedding dance plans is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation. We’d recommend scheduling a few wedding dance lessons for them, too.

Your wedding day First Dance is a romantic expression of your love and commitment – both for you and your new spouse, and for the special guests who are celebrating with you. From a few simple steps to get by, to a fully choreographed dance routine, let us help make your first dance as unique as the rest of your wedding day.

Social events designed for students to practice their newly acquired dance skills in a relaxed and enjoyable setting, fostering confidence and community.

Group instruction that complements private lessons, providing a social and fun learning environment to enhance skills and learn dances with others.

One-on-one instruction tailored to individual student needs and goals, ensuring personalized attention and accelerated learning in a proven teaching method.

Specialized lessons to help couples prepare for their wedding day, ranging from a simple first dance to elaborate routines for the entire wedding party.

This offer includes 2 lessons, one private and one group lesson, designed for new students to experience ballroom dancing and begin their dance journey.

Enjoy a fun and energizing way to stay fit by participating in fitness-inspired ballroom classes, designed to help you learn quickly and retain more, no matter your age or fitness level.

Join our vibrant dance community and discover why so many people choose Fred Astaire Dance Studios to build confidence, improve fitness, and have fun through dance, no partner needed.

Personalized instruction in a supportive, judgment-free environment to create a romantic and unforgettable wedding dance, whether you are brand new to dancing or looking to sharpen your skills.

Experience the benefits of ballroom and Latin dance, including creating a romantic wedding dance, discovering a new hobby, enjoying a fun way to stay fit, reconnecting with your partner, expanding your social circle, and advancing your dancing.

This introductory offer provides two lessons, one private and one group lesson, designed to help new students feel confident, comfortable, and excited from their very first lesson. It's a great way to start your dance journey.

Dance classes are a great way to learn how to dance while meeting new people in a socially exciting environment. Group lessons run weekly throughout the year. You can come with or without a partner, and there is no start or stop date – just show up and dance! Classes are taught by one instructor and offer an engaging way to pick up a new dance, discover additional steps, and begin to develop your leading and following skills by rotating partners and practicing the moves with the different people in the class. Group classes are structured to cover fundamentals of dancing, footwork, patterns, as well as the amalgamation of steps and dances. These classes are shared by students at similar levels. Our group classes help you improve your step knowledge week-by-week and are included in all our dance programs.

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.

Swedish researchers studying teenaged girls with stress, anxiety and depression saw a decrease in anxiety and stress levels among those who took up partner dancing. They also saw marked improvement in mental health and patients reported being happier than those who did not participate in dancing.

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!!

From there, students can continue to the Silver Program and then all the way to Gold!

From there, students can continue to the Silver Program and then all the way to Gold!

From there, students can progress to 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 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. Practice parties help you “put it all together”, aid with music identification, and help you learn how not to run into other people on the dance floor. Practice parties are a great (& FUN!) way to apply what you’re learning.

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.

Fred Astaire Dance Studios’ ballroom dance curriculum covers the full range of American, Latin-American, International Style, Exhibition/Theater Arts dances and more. World famous dance champions and registered members of the Fred Astaire International Dance Council continually study and review our curriculum, to ensure that only the finest, most up-to-date programs are offered to our students. Our unique teaching method includes a three-tiered system of regularly scheduled private lessons, group classes and practice parties.

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!

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

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

All new dance Students can take advantage of our special money-saving Introductory Offer! Simply complete and submit the Intro Offer form on this website to get yours, and we’ll contact you right away to learn about your dance goals and help you set up your first Lesson.

From a simple First Dance to a “YouTube-Worthy” routine for the entire wedding party, Fred Astaire Dance Studios can help make your Wedding Day even more special!

Our proven teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it!

Our proven teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it!

Our proven teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it!

Enjoy a fun and energizing way to stay fit. Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Mamaroneck specialize in high-quality ballroom and Latin dance lessons for adults, couples, and wedding parties. Whether you’re brand new to dancing or looking to sharpen your skills, our expert instructors use a proven teaching method that makes learning fun, easy, and effective. From wedding dance lessons and social dancing to fitness-inspired ballroom classes, we offer personalized instruction in a supportive, judgment-free environment.

Discover a new hobby that brings joy and creativity. Enjoy a fun and energizing way to stay fit. Reconnect with your partner through movement and rhythm. Expand your social circle in a vibrant dance community. Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Mamaroneck specialize in high-quality ballroom and Latin dance lessons for adults, couples, and wedding parties. Whether you’re brand new to dancing or looking to sharpen your skills, our expert instructors use a proven teaching method that makes learning fun, easy, and effective.

Create a romantic and unforgettable wedding dance. Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Mamaroneck specialize in high-quality ballroom and Latin dance lessons for adults, couples, and wedding parties. Whether you’re brand new to dancing or looking to sharpen your skills, our expert instructors use a proven teaching method that makes learning fun, easy, and effective. From wedding dance lessons and social dancing to fitness-inspired ballroom classes, we offer personalized instruction in a supportive, judgment-free environment.

Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Mamaroneck specialize in high-quality ballroom and Latin dance lessons for adults, couples, and wedding parties. Whether you’re brand new to dancing or looking to sharpen your skills, our expert instructors use a proven teaching method that makes learning fun, easy, and effective. From wedding dance lessons and social dancing to fitness-inspired ballroom classes, we offer personalized instruction in a supportive, judgment-free environment. No partner? No problem! We welcome beginners and all experience levels.

Wear white to get in the snowflake spirit!

Bring a dish to share

Costumes encouraged – prize will be awarded for best costume

Join us Select Friday Nights in 8:30pm – 10:00pm for our Social Dance Party Evenings! Social Dancing. Line Dances. Light Refreshments. Fun Themes. Singles, Couples & Groups All welcome!

Personalized Wedding Dances Courses! At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we know your Wedding Day is the event of a lifetime – and our goal is to help make it even more special. We customize our Wedding Dance Instruction Programs just for you, to give you the skills and confidence to show off your elegance and style – and maybe even a little personality on your wedding day.

Personalized wedding dance courses to help you create a special "First Dance" that’s totally “YOU” – whether that’s elegant, contemporary, or just plain fun. Amaze your family and friends with your new-found dance skills, and enjoy magical wedding dance memories that will be yours forever. We customize our Wedding Dance Instruction Programs just for you.