Cha Cha
The Bronze · Bronze · American Rhythm
- Time signature
- 4/4
- Tempo — studio
- 28–32 MPM
- Tempo — NDCA
- 30 MPM
- Count
- Q Q Q & Q · 2 3 4 & 1
Origin
Cuba, 1950s — an evolution of Mambo and other Afro-Cuban styles, given its name and its distinctive ‘cha-cha-cha’ rhythm by composer and bandleader Enrique Jorrín.
Music
4/4 time — bright and syncopated, with a chassé on the ‘&’ count.
Character
Vibrant and playful — lively, flirtatious, and sharply rhythmic.
Figures
- 1
Basic Movement
Closed · Open · In Place · Alternative
- 2
Breaks
Crossover · Fifth Position · Open · Outside/Offset
- 3
Switch / Solo Spot Turns
- 4
Underarm Turns (L & R)
- 5
Syncopated Underarm Turn to Left
- 6
Chase Turns (Half or Full)
- 7
Three Cha Cha Cha’s
Forward/Back · RSP · LSP
- 8
Crossbody Lead
- 9
Back Spot Turn / Natural Top
- 10
Sweethearts
- 11
Crossover Breaks & Swivels
- 12
Chasses
Locks · Runs · Side · Compact
- 13
Peek-a-Boo / Stop & Go
- 14
Side Passes (R & L)
Elsewhere in The Bronze
Want to learn the Cha Cha?
Every figure on this page is taught in the studio, one lesson at a time.