History of the Foxtrot
The Foxtrot is one of the most deceiving dances as it looks very easy, but is also one of the most complex dances. The dance originated in the Victorian era as the “one-step” or “two-step.” It was later introduced as the “Castle Walk” by the American performers, Vernon, and Irene Castle.
There are two very different styles of Foxtrot-American, and International. The step patterns are so different, that most would not even recognize it as a related dance in anything but the name. In American Style Foxtrot, the three levels of Bronze, Silver, and Gold are also drastically different, a point of confusion for many beginning dancers.
About the Dance
The Foxtrot is a smooth progressive dance characterized by long, continuous flowing movements across the dance floor. The American-style version of the Foxtrot takes many forms. The Bronze level Foxtrot, truest to the original Harry Fox version is a simple combination of walks and chasses. It is one of the easiest dances to learn and is ideal for social dancing. Silver American Foxtrot adds continuity, taking on the quality of its International counterpart. With the possibility of open, apart, and side-by-side movements, the Gold level Foxtrot resembles the signature styles of Fred Astaire, Ginger Rodgers, and Gene Kelly. Of course, the gold level of American Foxtrot is quite difficult to master.
Recommended Music List for Beginners
- Fly Me to the Moon, Frank Sinatra
- Call Me Irresponsible, Michael Bublé
- Come Fly Away with me, Michael Bublé
- Moondance, Van Morrison
- Fever, Michael Bublé
- Beyond the Sea, Bobby Darin
- Baby, It’s Cold Outside, Bing Crosby/ Doris Day
- Pink Panther, Henry Mancini & His Orchestra
- Same Old Saturday Night, Frank Sinatra
- Dancing Cheek to Cheek, Frank Sinatra