History of the Quickstep
The Quickstep has its musical origins in the Afro-Caribbean beats of the 1920’s. America at that time had a huge influx of immigrants and many from the Caribbean moved to New York. When the Afro-Caribbean beat met Jazz, a new dance was formed- the Quickstep. Originally, it was characterized by fast movements that had a lot of jumps and quick flicks. However, as time continued, the dance developed into two different dances, the Slow Foxtrot, which was the European interpretation, and the Charleston, which is still danced today in America. Currently, the quickstep uses many of the fast movements found from the beginning. However, as ballroom developed, many of the bounces and jumps are restricted to higher levels. The open positions still seen in the Charleston are no longer found in Quickstep as the dance is now only danced in closed dance frame.
About the Dance
The Quickstep is danced at a fast tempo and moves counterclockwise around the room. Unlike Foxtrot, which is mostly linear, the Quickstep also has some rotary movements as well. In the beginning levels, there are many similarities to Bronze American Foxtrot, even though Quickstep is more upbeat.
Recommended Music List for Beginners
- Swing and Dance, Klaus Hallen
- 42nd Street, Werner Tauber
- Tap Dancing Time, Geoffry Love Orchestra
- Dancin’ Fools, Tony Company
- Sing, Sing, Sing, Swing Kids
- Un Plat Qui Plait, Intended Immigration
- Duke, Red The Red Hots
- Heart of Glass, Ballroom Elegance
- Zip Gun Bop, Royal Crown Revue
- Don’t Stop, Little Violet