Swing
This category includes all the dances done to “American” music- Big Band, Jazz, Blues, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Country, Disco, and Pop. Dances in this style include East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Jive, Jitterbug, Lindy Hop, Country Swing, and Hustle. Typically Swing dances are characterized by a lively beat, quick feet, and a body rhythm or pulse. Swing dancing is loads of fun and a great way to exercise.
Latin/Rhythm
This category includes all the dances done to Latino style music with a strong emphasis on Afro-Cuban beats. Dances in this category include Salsa, Merengue, Cha Cha, Mambo, Rumba, Bolero, Bachata, Samba, Paso Doble, Cumbia, Lambada, and Zouk. The Latin/Rhythm dances use quick foot work and a body rhythm called “Cuban Motion”. The competition styles of International Latin and American Rhythm differ by the dances and the leg action, but the body rhythm required is very similar in both styles. That is what makes the Latin dances such a great work out for your core muscles.
Ballroom/Smooth
This category includes dances that glide around the floor, and thus are best suited to more elegant spaces. Dances in this style include Waltz, Tango, Fox Trot, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep, Peabody, Argentine Tango, and Milonga. Ballroom dances are smooth and graceful, requiring strong use of the feet and close proximity to your partner. The romantic nature of ballroom dances make them the most popular for Weddings and Anniversaries (the waltz in particular).
Country Western
If the music is Country Western, then we have a dance to go with it! These dances include Progressive (or Texas) Two Step, Rhythm (or Arizona) Two Step, Country Waltz, Country Swing, Polka, Triple Step, Country Cha-Cha, Cottoned Eyed Joe, Shuffle, West Coast Swing, Night Club Two Step, and Half Time. If you live in Arizona, then Country Dancing is a must!
Weddings & Events
There are some moments in your life that will stand out forever, your Wedding Dance is one of them. At Arthur Murray’s we have over 100 years of experience in helping you make that moment everything you’ve dreamed of. The traditional wedding dance is the waltz, with its romance, grace and beauty. As Weddings have become as diverse as the couples getting married, so has their wedding Dance. We’ve choreographed everything from sultry rumbas, to charming fox trots, to dramatic tangos for today’s couples. Our instructors will tailor your dance to fit the style, length, and complexity that you’re looking for. We’ll advise you on everything from choosing music, to reception floor craft. Many of our Wedding Parties also take lessons for the Father/Daughter, Mother/Son, Bridesmaids dance, as well as to just have more fun at the reception! Anniversaries, Quinceaneras, Holiday Parties, and Fund Raisers, are some of the other special events with which Arthur Murray’s can help increase the FUN (and decrease the stress). You never have to suffer through another New Year’s Eve Party wishing you could be out there on the dance floor!
Specialty Dances
Here at Phoenix Arthur Murray’s we teach almost any dance you’d see a couple doing on the dance floor. We can help you with anything from a slow romantic dance like foxy or night club two step, to a fast and high energy dance like disco or social hip hop. Just about any dance you do with a partner, we teach. This also includes dances like Charleston, Bosa Nova, Solo Disco, Peabody, and Polka. We also do choreography for shows and events: everything from local theater productions to national corporate team building.