What is the difference between salsa and bachata?
Some may think that salsa and bachata are practically the same dance, but with different names. But this judgment is erroneous. Salsa and bachata, of course, have common features, however, they are completely different dances. Let's consider what are the similarities and differences between these two dances, and also find out for ourselves which one is better.
Similarity of dances
Salsa and bachata are similar in many ways, which is why it is rather difficult for an unprepared person who understands little about dancing to see the difference between them.
Important in their similarity is the fact that both of them originated from the same places, originating among the peoples of South America. From here come similar rhythms, and the passion of the dancers themselves, and the fantasy of movements without boundaries. For example, it is difficult not to notice similar movements, in which smooth movements of the hips play a special role, as well as the presence of improvisation on the part of dancing people.
The music to which both dances are performed is also similar: as a rule, it is melodies with a time signature of 4/4. Moreover, both dances are suitable for pair performance, which is why they can be called social.
The main differences
Despite the obvious similarities, the Latin American dances of bachata and salsa are still different. Moreover, they have much more differences than similarities.
To begin with, it should be noted that bachata is a dance with a narrow focus. Rather, it is just a kind of dance, which has two more varieties - Dominican and Colombian. Bachata is performed exclusively in pairs, which is explained by the sensuality of this dance, its passion. All of these feelings are achieved through close contact between partners.This type of dance can be called romantic, since it embodies the sadness and experiences of lovers, and at the same time tenderness, the strength of the feelings of two loving hearts, their sincerity. At the same time, the dance itself is performed at a calm pace, it is characterized by plasticity, smoothness of movements, most of which can be called basic, since they are very simple.
Basically, bachata is more suitable for those couples who are already in a relationship, because this dance helps a man and a woman get closer, learn to feel each other better. All this has a positive effect on both strong and newly emerging relationships. It is also a more intimate dance than salsa, as it is often performed very frankly.
Salsa, which is a combination of several dance directions at once, differs markedly from bachata. She is more playful in her mood and uses a lot more improvisation on the part of the dancers. In bachata, as a rule, there is a specific scenario that does not change from dance to dance.
Salsa can be performed by one person or several (for example, three or five). That is, the presence of a pair is optional, although it is allowed. Salsa has a completely different tempo - quite fast and rhythmic. Here, a completely different semantic load is expressed, which differs from the one that carries in itself bachata. It:
- cheerfulness;
- energy;
- positive;
- coquetry.
All of the above is achieved due to the effective and active movements of the dancers. In addition, the basic steps for salsa are somewhat more difficult than the basic movements for bachata, which is also their distinguishing feature.
Bachata can also suit those people who wish to make new acquaintances. This is explained by the fact that at dance parties, couples often change partners, so it is quite possible to be paired with a person whom you have never seen before.
What is the best choice?
To choose between bachata and salsa, you need to understand what interests you more, as well as what kind of person you are by temperament. For active and sociable people, of course, salsa is more suitable. This dance is also worth choosing for those who do not want to dance together with someone, as they are used to expressing their feelings on their own. Bachata is a more sensual dance, so it suits melancholic and sensual people who want to dance in pairs.
Despite all their differences, the two dances have a close relationship. For example, at salsa parties, no one is puzzled by cases when a musical composition for bachata is turned on. This is explained by the fact that at present there are practically no people who are fixated on a specific dance development. Therefore, you can not think too much about the choice. While learning one of these dances, you will definitely master the basic movements of the second.
