|
Ok, so this time I’ve actually been out to salsa, which is a good start for a blog about salsa! This week I chaperoned my newly introduced salsa side kick James to the Gregson Centre in Lancaster. Two classes are taught here every Thursday, starting at 7, by Janik, with social dancing afterwards. We were a little late and so missed the start of the class (my fault as the designated driver!), but James quickly joined in, whilst I went to get the drinks in. The class was full, starting at a beginner level going through some of the basic steps before quickly moving on to a more improver level. James stuck with it, and was keeping up well, I thought! I do think though that James, and possibly the majority of the class, could have benefited more from the class being split in two, to give people the opportunity to make sure they are thoroughly comfortable with the basic steps and have had an introduction to timing in music before moving on to turn patterns that are more of a improver sort of level. Just my humble opinion! So, with the 1st class over, James sat out the second, a definite improver level class, which he will be ready for in a month if he practices (you listening Jim bob?!?), again the class was really full, obviously a popular choice for Lancastrian salseros. It was getting on for 10 when the second class ended, and Janik kept the music going, as people continued the dancing. James and I had some dances before heading off.
At the end of the last blog, an SC member requested I mentioned the types of music that are being played at the places I’m going to… so here goes! First a disclaimer, I’m no expert, but I’m learning… you can’t live in a house of TWO salsa DJs (when I’m in Birmingham that is) and be part of the SC team and not pick up something, they’d kick me out! I’m aware of the debates of the sorts of music played out in the clubs and at different events. My honest preference is for what I consider to be good quality salsa by the likes of Richie Ray and Bobby Cruz; El Gran Combo, Larry Harlow; Roberto Roena; Willie Colon and Hector Lavoe; Brooklyn Sounds; Jimmy Bosch and etc etc. Good strong base-lines and strong melodies either from brass or piano that MOVE YOU, rather than you moving just because there’s some music playing. I’m not a fan of the so called “funky salsa” or r’n’b salsa and I confess I get irritated when Ricky or Shakira come on at a salsa night. So that’s my musical taste briefly summed up! The music at the Gregson last Thursday included tracks such as a remix of “I like it like that” (a track I love in its original state by Pete Rodriguez) and the ever popular “Aisha” by Africando, there were a couple of tracks I didn’t recognise, salsa with a dance beat underneath, and Ricky did make an appearance. The music at the Gregson was admittedly not my cup of tea, but… everyone else seemed happy and the atmosphere was good (….The debate continues…).
On Saturday I went to the bi-monthly event hosted by Phil and Karen of Salsa northwest at the Longridge civic hall, just outside of Preston. The guest teacher was Dr Rumba and his dance troupe E4:24 who came over from Ireland especially for the night. Classes started at about 8.30, Phil and Leah took the beginners class on the stage which James took part in, whilst I took part in (most of) Dr Rumba’s class, disappearing to take some pics for the blog.  He was a funny guy and a clear instructor, assessing the level of the class and pitching it accordingly, introducing some more complex moves towards the end of the routine, whilst his partner Dee made sure the ladies were happy with their steps. He had an infectious fun attitude that had the class relaxed and everyone seemed really receptive.
Apparently it was a quiet night for the Longridge, but there was space on the dance floor and no stubbed toes, so I was happy with that. Now let me rack my brains to try and remember the music… thinking…anyone who knows me will know what a dizzy forgetful thing I am and will be impressed at me remembering anything…. I remember a few Alex Wilson tracks of his newest album Inglaterra, and (sorry Phil!) I also clearly remember Shakira at one point! On the whole though, there was a mix of music, catering to a range of tastes, never getting as “dura” as I would have liked, but you can’t please everyone! Besides, the DJ kept the majority of patrons off their bums and on the floor and the atmosphere was good.
At this point I must apologise to the lady who asked me if I would lead her! I’m learning how to lead, but I bottled it! I promise I will practice and next time hopefully I will be able to lead without boring you to tears or treading on your toes too much!
The performance by E4:24 who flew in especially that night went down well, performed to the Salsa Celtica track: “El Agua De La Vida” combining Traditional Irish dancing with cross-body style salsa.
James and I headed off shortly after this as we had a bit of drive back to Cumbria. Nearly running out of fuel when we got off the motorway, because I didn’t check the gauge until after I’d dropped James off and then had to drive to find a 24 hour garage in south Lakes at 1 am, not an easy task! Oh well, wouldn’t be an SC trip (even though its only one team member there L) without something going wrong would it!
Next events: Penrith this Saturday hopefully, dependant on transportation! Also the Gregson on a Sunday at some point! Also the new party night starting on the 8th March at Fever Dance Company Dance Studios in Preston.
Any other events people know about then please let me know!
Take Care Salseros,
Cat.
|
