Semba
- 10 week
- 12 lesson
- 50 students
- In-person (NY)
- Intermediate
Coming Soon
Course Description
Course Description
Discover the powerful yet playful movements of Semba – Angola’s iconic folk dance and music tradition. Over this 10-week course of 12 lessons, you’ll learn to embody Semba’s grounded footwork, rhythmic steps, and call-and-response partner dynamics.
More than choreography, you’ll explore Semba’s origins and role in expressing Angolan identity, courtship rituals, and heritage from rural to urban communities. Build improvisation skills to interpret the lively batá drum rhythms.
Whether new to dance or a more experienced mover, you’ll cultivate an appreciation for Semba’s representation of Angolan culture through centuries of change. Get ready to make the floor your own with this powerhouse of joyful African dance!
What you’ll learn?
- Fundamental Semba footwork: step patterns, grounded movements, rhythms
- Leading/following Semba's playful call-and-response partnering style
- Improvisational skills to groove hard with the batá drum rhythms of Semba music
- The deep cultural roots and modern impacts of Semba across Angolan society
- How to choreograph and perform with the exuberant, celebratory nature of Semba
Who This Course Is For
- Dancers of all levels interested in traditional West/Central African folk styles
- Those wanting an immersive experience in Angolan music, dance, and heritage
- Dance students/professionals aiming to expand their ethnic dance vocabulary
- Social dancers excited to learn a flirtatious partnered groove with deep roots
- Both leaders and follows ready to connect through Semba's lively musical dialogue
- Drop In
Not ready to fully commit yet
$25
- Package Level 1
Package of 3 classes
$50
- Package Level 2
Package of 6 classes
$75
- Package Level 3
Package of 12 classes
$100
- Membership
Unlimited online Classes
$150
- Membership
Unlimited in-person and online Classes
$200
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What is the Semba dance style?
Semba is a grounded, rhythmic, and lively folk dance and music tradition originating in Angola. It involves footwork, improvisation, and call-and-response partner movements.
Is Semba a partner dance style?
Yes, Semba has a strong foundation in partnered improvised movements and musical conversations between the lead and follow roles. Solo choreography is also explored.
Do I need previous dance experience?
You’ll dance to traditional Semba songs featuring infectious batá drum rhythms as well as folk percussion and call-and-response vocals.
Should I bring a partner?
For the partnering portions of class, it can be fun to bring a friend or dance partner, but it’s not required as we’ll rotate lead/follow roles.
What footwear is recommended?
Wear shoes with smooth soles and good traction/support for Semba’s grounded steps and spontaneous heel/toe movements. Dance sneakers or shoes are ideal.
