Pick Music for a Waltz
Picking the perfect music for a waltz can be the hardest part of dancing a waltz, especially with all the different choices. But, with these simple tips, picking the perfect music should be as fun as it is to dance the waltz.
Instructions
1. Determine what kind of atmosphere you want to set with your music. Waltz music in the major key sets a happy mood, while waltz music in the minor key has a sad or melancholy undertone. If you're having an evening filled with old friends and reunions, choose more upbeat, happy music. If you're planning a romantic evening, more somber music fits the mood better.
2. Choose between contemporary, classic and traditional waltz music. Classic or traditional music is a good choice for dancing because it's designed to be danced to, not just listened to. However, a nice sprinkling of a few contemporary songs keeps the evening moving along and gives the couples a chance to have some fun with their dancing.
3. Listen to all the songs before you dance to them. Find elegant and flowing music with consistent phrasing and not a lot of sharp attacks. Make sure the notes are long and drawn out to allow the couples to accent each movement and ensure that the songs have plenty of swing so that the couples can feel the beat of the music.
4. Use music that the couples know well. Schubert's songs are a good option as they're well known and are particularly for household dancing use.
