Meter
Most Western music is organized in a simple structure that can be easily understood without getting too technical. Typically a "beat" refers to a drum beat. A group of beats is a "bar" or "measure". Finally a group of bars is a "phrase". Meter is the way the beats are grouped in the bars - usually by 2's, 3's or 4's. Different dances have different meters.
All of the dances in our program have a meter of either 2, 3 or 4 beats per bar.
- Tango: 2 beats per bar
- Waltz: 3 beats per bar
- Foxtrot: 4 beats per bar
- Rumba: 4 beats per bar
- Cha Cha: 4 beats per bar
- Swing: 4 beats per bar
- Salsa: 4 beats per bar
Note: Practically speaking it can be difficult to tell the difference between 2 and 4 beats per bar, because of the even numbers of beats. However, it is much easier to recognize a Waltz because of its distinct 3 beat rhythm. If you hear a strong 3 beat rhythm, then the song is definitely a Waltz. If you hear even numbers of beats, you will also need to consider the tempo and character of the music, before you decide on your dance.
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