The cradle of samba can be found in Brazil, no doubt about it.
Modern samba is said to be born in Rio de Janeiro, more specifically. But the origins of this dance go further back in time and across the Atlantic Ocean to the place where much of South Americans and the Caribbeans owe their roots to: Africa. The slave trading era, during 1600-1888, not only brought new inhabitants to America but their traditions and customs, as well. The word “samba” is thought to be derived from the Kimbundu (Angolan) term semba, which referred to an invitation to dance. West African slaves were forced to leave their home countries in Africa to come live in a new continent, with foreign and unknown traditions to them. Even though they were also forced to become Christians, they kept practicing their religious traditions. The worship of their gods was done through dance and song. So, they managed to have parties where they camouflaged their ceremonies, as these, of course, were prohibited. Slavery was abolished in Brazil in 1888, and after decades of struggle to keep their traditions, the original dances and music were now combined with other rhythms and instruments. Many samba rhythms can be found in Candomble, an African religion, which is also practised in Brazil.
Samba as a Popular World Dance
Some of the earliest records of samba trace it back to before 1914, when it was originally called “maxixe”. There are French records from the 1920s, that include instructions on how to dance it. It is said that samba, as we know it, was formed around that time. Samba was first introduced to US in movies, such as Flying Down to Rio, with Fred Astaire. The World’s Fair in 1939, in New York, was the stage for samba as it made a memorable impression on Americans. Samba is well-know as the the Carnaval of Rio in Rio de Janeiro’s official dance and it continues to impress and amaze spectators all around the world.
Samba at Bella Diva Dance
We offer Samba lessons for Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced students. We have our Samba No Pe class and an Intermediate/Advanced Samba Technique and Choreography class. Our classes are thoroughly planned series in which we cover all basic samba foot patterns and sequences, body movements and different styles. Our prices:
4 week month series = $52
5 week month series = $65
$15 Drop-in rate (if spots are available)
JOIN US FOR WORLD DANCE CLASSES IN DENVER
Bella Diva Dance’s new studio is located in the Glendale Center on E. Mississippi Ave and Birch St, near Colorado Blvd. We offer you: Belly Dance, Samba, Yoga, Bollywood, Hot Hula Fitness, Afro-Caribe and Kids’ World Dance. Contact Caitlin for more information about classes: 303.359.9414 or email us at [email protected].