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Waltz is a smooth progressive dance characterized by long, flowing movements, continuous turns, and rise & fall. Waltz dancers glide around the floor almost effortlessly. The American style is punctuated with lavish open movements, underarm turns, and solo spins. At 28-30 measures per minute, the tempo is slow at best.
Waltz is by its very definition a form of music in 3/4 meter. The first beat of each measure is dominant with a strong downbeat accent, while beats 2 and 3 are lighter. Characteristically, American style Waltz music is slow, sweet, melodic and fluid. It is often orchestral music, mostly lacking in heavy percussion or drums, relying more on the melodic instruments to carry the rhythmic progression. The music can be vocal or instrumental.
Step1
Get into position by facing your partner. If you are the leader, place your right hand on your partner's waist slightly around the back and extend your left hand to your side with your elbow bent and your palm raised, facing her. With that hand, grasp your partner's right hand in a loose grip, and make sure your partner has her left hand on your right shoulder, with her elbow bent. She should mirror your movements.
Step2
On the first beat, step forward gracefully with your left foot. Your partner should follow your lead by doing the opposite of what you do on each beat - in this case, stepping back with her right foot.
Step3
On the second beat, step forward and to the right with your right foot. Trace an upside-down letter L in the air with your foot as you do this.
Step4
Shift your weight to your right foot. Keep your left foot stationary.
Step5
On the third beat, slide your left foot over to your right and stand with your feet together.
Step6
On the fourth beat, step back with your right foot.
Step7
On the fifth beat, step back and to the left with your left foot, this time tracing a backward L. Shift your weight to your left foot.
Step8
On the final beat, slide your right foot toward your left until your feet are together; now you're ready to start over with your left foot.
Step9
Repeat steps 2 through 8 turning your and your partner's orientation slowly to the left by slightly varying the placement of your feet.
Basic Box Step
Man's steps
Step1
Stand opposite your partner.
Step2
Place your right hand on your partner's waist. Extend your left hand, palm up, to your side with your arm bent.
Step3
Grasp your partner's hand in a loose grip.
Step4
Wait for the music to start.
Step5
On the first beat, step forward gracefully with your left foot.
Step6
On the second beat, quickly step forward and to the right with your right foot. The motion should look like an upside-down letter L.
Step7
Shift your weight to your right foot. Keep your left foot stationary.
Step8
On the third beat, slide your left foot quickly over to your right and stand with your feet together.
Step9
On the fourth beat, step slowly back with your right foot.
Step10
On the fifth beat, quickly step back and to the left with your left foot, this time tracing a backward L. Shift your weight to your left foot.
Step11
On the final beat, quickly slide your right foot toward your left and bring your feet together.
Step12
Repeat.
Woman' steps
Step1
Follow the leader.
Step2
Place your left hand on his right shoulder.
Step3
Bend your right elbow and place the palm of your right hand lightly on his outstretched palm.
Step4
Do the opposite of what your partner does. Move your right foot back when the leader moves his left foot forward on the first beat.
Step5
Continue following, in reverse, the directions for the leader.
