Fred Astaire Dance Studios

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 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. The Tango first came to be known as such, early in the 20th century in Argentina. It was danced, however, under various names throughout all of Latin America. Years later, Argentine plainsmen or “gauchos,” danced a modified version of the Milonga in the bawdy cafes of Buenos Aires. Argentine and Cuban youth later changed the name (and style) to Tango which was more acceptable to society. The Cubans danced it to habanera rhythms which were syncopated and obscured the basic Milonga rhythm. It was not until after it caught on in Paris and was re-introduced to Argentina, that the music was restored to its native style. For over 60 years, the four beat Tango rhythm has endured and continued to enjoy popularity everywhere as the music is universal with many types of sub-styles. Of all the dances which came into being in the early 20th century, only the Tango has continued to enjoy this much popularity. The Tango is a progressive dance where the staccato movement of the feet and flexed knees highlight the dramatic style of the dance. The Tango is one of the most highly stylized ballroom dances. It is dramatic with measured crossing and flexing steps and poised pauses. Perhaps the main reason for its widespread popularity is that it is danced close to the partner. Take advantage of our special introductory offer for new students, and contact Fred Astaire Dance Studios today. We’ll help you take the first step towards a new and exciting lifestyle.

The Samba is a serenade, a Brazilian dance originating in Bahia, Brazil. The music is an amalgamation of African and Latin American rhythm that is adorned with expressive, melodic lines. The repetition of its melody is continually interrupted by the strumming of a guitar or other stringed instruments. 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!

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.

Guaracha-Rumba quickly faded in popularity when the more exciting Mambo was introduced to Americans in the late 1940s. It is a style of Rumba characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a heavy walking step.

Son-Rumba, also shortened to Rumba, is one of the styles of Rumba that was introduced to the United States and has survived the test of time. It is a style of Rumba characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a heavy walking step.

Bolero-Rumba, also shortened to Bolero, is one of the styles of Rumba that was introduced to the United States and has survived the test of time. It is a style of Rumba characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a heavy walking step.

Rumba, also known as "ballroom-rumba", is a social and competitive ballroom dance. It is the slowest of the five competitive International Latin dances, derived from a Cuban rhythm and dance called the Bolero-Son. Its tantalizing rhythm first invaded the United States 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.

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. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or a way to connect with your partner, want to take your dancing skills to the next level, or just want to improve your social life, the teaching methods of Fred Astaire will result in faster learning rates, higher levels of achievement – and more FUN! Contact us today, we’d love to help you get started.

No other dance from south of the (U.S.) border has ever attained the instantaneous popularity than the zestful Mambo did when it was first introduced from Latin America. The extent of the Mambo’s reach can be observed by the widespread use of its rhythm by Tin Pan Alley. Love ballads were written to a slow Mambo beat, novelty songs to a fast Mambo beat, and rock ‘n’ roll numbers were being tailored to the tempo. Across the nation, dancers who had never progressed beyond the Foxtrot and Waltz were clamoring for Mambo instruction. 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.

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.

The Foxtrot dance step was named after Harry Fox, a vaudeville dancer and comedian. This dance came into vogue around 1912 during the ragtime music period, marking a new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced closer together and ad-libbed to the music. From 1917 onwards, the accent has been placed on smoother dancing and individualized expression. By 1960, International style techniques were implemented into the American style Foxtrot. The International style is danced entirely in contact maintaining the normal dance hold, while the American style allows for complete freedom of expression utilizing various dance holds and positions. Most figures are designed for the larger ballroom floor but are also suited to the average dance floor when danced more compactly.

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 Cha Cha, while sprung up from Latin American roots in Cuba, really flowered under North American influence.

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.

There are many legends and stories about the origins and development of tango. 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, 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. Once you discover how much fun ballroom dancing can be, we know you’ll be back for more!

Make the happiest day of your life extra unique with our wedding offers. 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!

2 Private Dance Lessons ONLY $59! Congratulations on taking the first step on your dance journey, and welcome to Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Apex NC. Whether you’re interested in wedding dance lessons, a new hobby or way to connect with your partner, improving your social life, physical or emotional well-being, or taking your skills to the next level, you’ve come to the right place – start dancing with us today!

Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Apex beginner lessons are designed for the novice dancer who wishes to be introduced to the primary steps that are the building blocks of most social dances. You will be exposed to the step patterns of a selection of popular dances and experience the fun, challenge and excitement that dancing provides.

This special offer is for any new adult student or couple that would enjoy the many benefits of dance such as, improved health, confidence, new friends, more time with a loved one or a new, fun activity. This program will introduce the most popular social dances used while dancing out and about, and will give anyone the opportunity to truly enjoy themselves!

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Apex, we offer dance fitness classes that not only keep you in shape but also provide a fun experience.

You can master the graceful Waltz, passionate Tango, energetic Swing, and sultry Salsa, among many other dance styles, under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

You can master the graceful Waltz, passionate Tango, energetic Swing, and sultry Salsa, among many other dance styles, under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

You can master the graceful Waltz, passionate Tango, energetic Swing, and sultry Salsa, among many other dance styles, under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

You can master the graceful Waltz, passionate Tango, energetic Swing, and sultry Salsa, among many other dance styles, under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Apex, we offer dance fitness classes that will help you stay in shape while having a blast. Dance can improve your flexibility, balance, and endurance, making it an ideal choice for Holly Springs residents looking to lead an active lifestyle.

Planning a wedding in Holly Springs? Let us help you create a magical moment on your special day. Our wedding dance specialists will work with you to choreograph the perfect first dance that reflects your unique style and love story.

Holly Springs residents can explore and master various dance styles under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

Holly Springs residents can explore and master various dance styles under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

Holly Springs residents can explore and master various dance styles under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

Holly Springs residents can explore and master various dance styles under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

Discover Ballroom Dancing near Holly Springs! Welcome to Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Apex, your gateway to the enchanting world of dance right here in Holly Springs. Our studio is more than just a place to learn dance; it’s a haven for those who want to experience the joy, elegance, and sheer exhilaration of dance.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Apex, we present dance fitness classes that enable you to stay in optimal shape while having an absolute blast and enhancing your flexibility, balance, and stamina.

Our wedding dance specialists will collaborate with you to choreograph the perfect first dance, one that mirrors your distinctive style and love story for your special day.

Pittsboro residents can delve into and master various dance styles under the expert guidance of our seasoned instructors, including the sultry Salsa.

Pittsboro residents can delve into and master various dance styles under the expert guidance of our seasoned instructors, including the vivacious Swing.

Pittsboro residents can delve into and master various dance styles under the expert guidance of our seasoned instructors, including the passionate Tango.

Pittsboro residents can delve into and master various dance styles under the expert guidance of our seasoned instructors, including the graceful Waltz.

Our studio offers an extensive array of dance styles tailored to accommodate every preference and skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or taking your very first step onto the dance floor, we have classes for you.

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

Our Beginner and Social Foundation Programs teach newer students the step patterns and techniques to move comfortably around the dance floor. 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 dance teaching methods involve regularly scheduled practice parties to complete the information taught in your private lessons and group classes. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Apex NC’s 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.

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.

Learn the lively Swing at Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Apex, tailored specifically for parents and relatives of engaged couples, ensuring that you shine on the dance floor and create cherished memories.

Learn the passionate Tango at Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Apex, tailored specifically for parents and relatives of engaged couples, ensuring that you shine on the dance floor and create cherished memories.

Learn the elegant Waltz at Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Apex, tailored specifically for parents and relatives of engaged couples, ensuring that you shine on the dance floor and create cherished memories.

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!

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!

Wedding dance lessons are a great way to have fun and relax before your 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!

Looking for something really memorable? Interesting in getting the whole wedding party involved? Bridesmaids? Groomsmen? We can choreograph a “YouTube-worthy” wedding dance for everyone in your party, that’s set to your favorite music!

A memorable Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dance is a wonderful compliment to your special day. 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. In a short time, our qualified instructors will assist in teaching you a few basic steps or choreographing a full dance to “your special song.”

Wedding Dance Instruction Programs at Fred Astaire Apex! Make Wedding Dance Memories That Will Last a Lifetime… We know how important your Wedding Day is, and we can help make it even more special!

40-Minute Wedding Dance Lesson – Consultation ONLY $40 (a $110 value). Your Day, YOUR Wedding Dance Experience. In just a short amount of time, our certified Dance Instructors can help you learn a few basic steps, so you’ll feel at ease and confident on your wedding day.

At Fred Astaire Dance Studio Apex NC, we customize our Wedding Dance Instruction Programs just for you, 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.

Make the happiest day of your life extra unique with our wedding offers. 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 start dancing and learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it! Let us help you fall in love with dance today!

Our proven teaching method includes Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Practice Parties, to ensure you start dancing and learn as much as possible, in the shortest amount of time, with the most retention… and have the most FUN doing it! Let us help you fall in love with dance today!

Discover your passion for dance with private lessons that cater to various goals, from romantic wedding dances and new hobbies to fun exercise and enhancing social life. Our certified instructors utilize a unique teaching method to help you learn and retain more, faster, regardless of your age, dancing skills, or physical abilities. Learning ballroom dance is always fun, and you'll discover a warm, welcoming, and 100% non-judgmental community.

2 Private Dance Lessons - 30 minutes long. Start dancing with Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and discover your passion for dance: Romantic wedding dances, a new hobby, a fun & engaging way to exercise, a great way to connect with your partner, to improve your social life, to bring your dancing skills to the next level. Our certified Instructors and unique teaching method help you learn & retain more, faster – regardless of your age, dancing skills or physical abilities. And at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, learning how to ballroom dance is always fun! Step inside for your introductory offer lessons and discover a warm, welcoming & 100% non-judgmental community that will inspire you to reach new heights, feel and look confident, and have fun doing it.