The Brazilian partner dance “Samba de Gafieira” combines Brazilian charm and rhythmic hip movements with the lightness of the waltz, the sensuality of salsa, and the elegance of Tango Argentino. The dance impresses with a mixture of humorous figures, elegant movements, and dynamic step sequences. Especially characteristic of Samba are the rhythms, which are broken up by numerous “Off-Beats”.
Samba de Gafieira originated as a social dance and music genre in the early 20th century in Rio de Janeiro. Its roots lie in the interplay of Afro-Brazilian rhythms and dances, such as Maxixe, as well as colonial European dance and music culture. The dance developed further in the “Gafieiras”, the dance venues of Rio, which were mainly frequented by the working class. The Samba music played there also became increasingly versatile and instrumental. Over time, new influences from other dance styles flowed in, leading to continuous development. Today’s Samba de Gafieira, which is gaining popularity especially among young dancers, is the result of this development: a complex and versatile mixture of steps, movements, and figures, danced to the equally diverse Samba music.
At the same time, in the “Morros”, the hills of Rio, and especially in the poorer neighborhoods, the “Samba no Pé” developed as a solo dance. Strongly influenced by Carnival, this dance is now known worldwide and is often the first thing people associate with Samba, especially due to the famous Brazilian Carnival. However, it is just one of many expressions of Samba.
The competitive dance Samba, on the other hand, developed completely independently of “Samba de Gafieira” and hardly shares any similarities with the popular Brazilian social dance.
Source: Samba Aachen
