Learn how to beautifully dance
the modern waltz
The steps of the Modern Waltz are probably the easiest of the five Modern ballroom dances. However, aspiring dancers should pay careful attention to the many other aspects in order to capture the iconic rhythmic swing and lilt of this dance. The correct use of contrary body movement will allow a smooth and easy swing of the body into the turns. And the correct relaxing and straightening of the knees as well as the tempered use of body sway will all contribute to assisting you to dance in a manner that is continuously flowing with a rhythmic lilting movement.
Timing: 3/4. Three beats in a bar
Tempo: 30 bars per minute
Basic Rhythm: 1,2,3 with the first beat accented. Even timing with no slows or quicks.
For the full list of Modern Waltz figures corresponding to each medal level, as per the Imperial Society for Teachers of Dancing (ISTD), see the Figure List for Modern Waltz.