Bolero
The Bronze · Bronze · American Rhythm
- Time signature
- 4/4
- Tempo — studio
- 22–26 MPM
- Tempo — NDCA
- 24–26 MPM
- Count
- S Q Q
Origin
The ‘Cuban Dance of Love’ — a fusion of Spain’s slow, dramatic tradition with Cuba’s Afro-Cuban rhythm and sensuality, drawing on folk forms like Danzon, Beguine, and Fandango. Reached the U.S. in the mid-1930s.
Music
4/4 time — slow and dreamy, with soft percussion and often Spanish vocals.
Character
Romantic and lyrical, blending Tango’s contra body, Waltz’s rise & fall, and Rumba’s Cuban Motion.
Figures
- 1
Basic
Closed · Alternative
- 2
Breaks
Crossover · Fifth Position · Open (incl. Point Break) · Outside/Offset
- 3
Switch / Solo Spot Turns
- 4
Underarm Turns (L & R)
- 5
Three Step Underarm Turn Left
- 6
Rocks
Forward · Back · Side
- 7
Cuban Walks
- 8
Crossbody Lead
- 9
Crossbody Lead to Cuban Walks
- 10
Back Spot Turn / Natural Top
- 11
Sweethearts
- 12
Side Passes (L & R)
- 13
Passing Basics
- 14
Checked Underarm Pass
- 15
Left Angle Position Break
- 16
Contra Check
Elsewhere in The Bronze
Want to learn the Bolero?
Every figure on this page is taught in the studio, one lesson at a time.