• New FUNdamentals Classes: Learn 2 dances for only $5!  Wednesday at 6:30pm.
• Become a Dance Discount Member and get $5 off group classes, $5 off admission to the Main Event Mixer, plus free practice floor time

• Become a Deluxe Dance Discount Member and really SAVE! For more information visit our Membership Page.

Save the date:  March 31, 2012

History of Bachata:

Bachata is a form of music and dance that originated in the countryside and rural marginal neighborhoods of the Dominican Republic.  Its subjects are usually romantic; especially prevalent are tales of heartbreak.  The music is in 4/4 timing and is influenced by rumba and Son, while remaining of distinctive sound.

Derived from the Latin American tradition of guitar music, bachata emerged in the 1960s. While popular radio filled the air waves with meringue and salsa, bachata musicians were forced to develop their own system of producing and distributing their music.  Juan Luis Guerra won a Grammy in 1992 for his album Bachata Rosa allowing bachata to gain legitimacy and international recognition.  The bachata that has gained popularity is produced with electronic instruments and exhibits masterful use of the guitar. It is often faster than its predecessors, and is very danceable; in recent years, Dominican television stations have produced vastly popular bachata dance contests for broadcast.

In 2004, the Dominican group Aventura was probably the best known bachata group worldwide, with its single “Obsession” having dominated for a long time radio play both in major US latino markets, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.

Other artists of note include Anthony Santos, Raulin Rodriguez, Zacarias Ferrera, and Joe Veras, just to mention a few of the currently most popular.