Dance Music Glossary

I. What is Lyrical Music? Lyrical music is a genre of music that focuses on the lyrics and storytelling aspect of a song. It is often characterized by emotional and expressive vocals, poetic and meaningful lyrics, and a strong connection between the music and the words being sung. Lyrical music can encompass a wide range … Read more

I. What is Quebradita music? Quebradita music is a genre of Mexican music that originated in the 1980s. It is characterized by its upbeat tempo, lively rhythms, and energetic dance style. The word “quebradita” itself means “little break” in Spanish, which refers to the dance move where dancers break or bend their knees while dancing. … Read more

I. What is Klezmer music? Klezmer music is a traditional form of Jewish folk music that originated in Eastern Europe. It is characterized by its lively and spirited melodies, intricate rhythms, and emotional expression. The word “Klezmer” comes from the Yiddish words “klei” (vessel) and “zemer” (song), which together mean “instrument of song.” Klezmer music … Read more

I. What is Tap Music? Tap music is a genre of music that is closely associated with tap dancing. It is characterized by its rhythmic patterns and percussive sounds, which are created by the tapping of metal plates on the dancer’s shoes. Tap music is often used in tap dance performances to provide a musical … Read more

I. What is Waltz Music? Waltz music is a genre of music that is characterized by its 3/4 time signature and a strong emphasis on the first beat of each measure. It is typically associated with elegant ballroom dancing, particularly the waltz dance, which originated in the late 18th century in Austria and Germany. The … Read more

I. What is Irish dance music? Irish dance music is a genre of music that is closely associated with traditional Irish dancing. It is characterized by its lively and upbeat tempo, which is perfect for the fast-paced footwork and intricate movements of Irish dance. The music is typically played on traditional instruments such as the … Read more

I. What is Ladino music? Ladino music, also known as Judeo-Spanish music, is a genre of music that originated from the Sephardic Jewish community. It is a unique blend of Spanish, Turkish, Greek, and Arabic influences, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of the Sephardic Jews. Ladino music is sung in Ladino, a language that is … Read more

I. What is Son music? Son music is a genre of Cuban music that originated in the eastern part of the country in the late 19th century. It is a fusion of Spanish and African rhythms and melodies, creating a unique and lively sound that is distinctively Cuban. Son music is often associated with the … Read more

I. What is Zouk music? Zouk music is a popular genre that originated in the French Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique in the 1980s. It is a lively and rhythmic style of music that combines elements of traditional Caribbean rhythms with influences from African, Latin, and European music. Zouk music is known for its … Read more