April 28, 2005
I only attended the intermediate session because of other commitments. This session was completely useless because there were too many beginners.
Things done:
simple cross body lead
cross body lead with normal counterclockwise 1 1/2 turn
pivot turn for leaders followed by two consecutive free 180 left turn for the leaders
merengue in circles, using terms such as dame and dame dos
I also watched the "Advanced" class for a little while. This looked more promising in terms of skill level. However, skill level of students seemed pretty low. This is going to be a serious problem for improving my own skills in LA style.
Week 1 of 4 (!) Sergio's CDC Easter Term Intermediate
April 28, 2005
Sergio doesn't make any big deal about switching between closed hold, open hold and L-R only hold but generally prefers New York grip. I used 1,2,3,5,6,7 basic to indicate "pause" between maneuvers.
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic closed hold (New York hold/grip)
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic cross body lead ending with open position
1,2,3 prepare partner ending with R-L high in front of partner’s forehead (note: my finger is already pointing downwards if New York grip is used)
5,6,7 lead partner to a simple 360 clockwise turn
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 this is somewhat like Adios – open break on 1, overtake and moving slightly to left on 2 and move back slightly to left and get to a closed hold result in my R shoulder facing partner’s L shoulder and both turning about 30-45 degrees clockwise at shoulder level on 3, get to a hook position and turning both myself and partner together as much as 180 clockwise on 5, step forward on 6 as L-R is raised to make a gate, step forward again on 7 and turn counterclockwise about 180 on 7/8 and landing as late as next 1 stepping forward [Note: maybe I could use this to improve/modify my Adios con la hermana]
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic
1,2,3 prepare partner ending with R-L at partner’s chin level (rather than higher by her forehead. This was clarified further at the end of the class with a quick Q & A) – also a good idea to show R hand in front to indicate a possible block
5,6,7 twist partner slightly to clockwise direction on 5 and block further movement with R hand catching partner’s L hand at chest level and lead partner back to a counterclockwise turn instead on 6,7 with L-R high
1,2,3 keep L-R high and go forward on 1, pivot turn on 2, and get to cross body lead start position on 3 keeping L-R fairly high throughout
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and 6 and lead partner to a reverse turn (clockwise turn) 180 on 7
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic
I'm not sure why this is the case but the term for Sergio will only last 4 weeks this term. Strange...
Sergio doesn't make any big deal about switching between closed hold, open hold and L-R only hold but generally prefers New York grip. I used 1,2,3,5,6,7 basic to indicate "pause" between maneuvers.
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic closed hold (New York hold/grip)
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic cross body lead ending with open position
1,2,3 prepare partner ending with R-L high in front of partner’s forehead (note: my finger is already pointing downwards if New York grip is used)
5,6,7 lead partner to a simple 360 clockwise turn
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 this is somewhat like Adios – open break on 1, overtake and moving slightly to left on 2 and move back slightly to left and get to a closed hold result in my R shoulder facing partner’s L shoulder and both turning about 30-45 degrees clockwise at shoulder level on 3, get to a hook position and turning both myself and partner together as much as 180 clockwise on 5, step forward on 6 as L-R is raised to make a gate, step forward again on 7 and turn counterclockwise about 180 on 7/8 and landing as late as next 1 stepping forward [Note: maybe I could use this to improve/modify my Adios con la hermana]
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic
1,2,3 prepare partner ending with R-L at partner’s chin level (rather than higher by her forehead. This was clarified further at the end of the class with a quick Q & A) – also a good idea to show R hand in front to indicate a possible block
5,6,7 twist partner slightly to clockwise direction on 5 and block further movement with R hand catching partner’s L hand at chest level and lead partner back to a counterclockwise turn instead on 6,7 with L-R high
1,2,3 keep L-R high and go forward on 1, pivot turn on 2, and get to cross body lead start position on 3 keeping L-R fairly high throughout
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and 6 and lead partner to a reverse turn (clockwise turn) 180 on 7
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic
I'm not sure why this is the case but the term for Sergio will only last 4 weeks this term. Strange...
Casino Rueda with Helen & Rhona - Beginners #6
April 28, 2005
Rosate
1,2,3 spin counterclockwise 360 as I wrap myself around L-R hold
5,6,7 Guapea 5,6,7 with myself wrapped (L hand by my R waist with L arm in front)
1,2,3 spin clockwise two turns to wrap myself the other way
5,6,7 Guapea 5,6,7 with myself wrapped (L hand by my R waist with L arm behind)
1,2,3 duck underneath L-R to my right
5,6,7 Guapea 5,6,7
Babosa
1,2,3 like Enchufe but with R-L connection at waist level intact resulting in wrapping partner
5,6,7 release L-R and unwrap partner (clockwise turn) out so that partner’s R hand is reaching out towards the next leader (as the follower downwards R hand reaches out to you, who will become your new partner and whose R hand which you catch with your L hand on 8 as you release your old partner)
1,2,3 Enchufe with new partner
5,6,7 "accomodating steps" more or less in place
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Dame y no le llegues
1,2,3 Go towards your new partner on your right
5,6,7 turn around and go back to old partner approaching from outside the circle
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
(note if this were Dame dos y no le llegues, you would go to second partner then turn around to the follower just to the left of your normal Dame dos partner. This is the same follower you’d have taken if this were normal Dame. I think no le llegues can be used after Enchufe, Adios, etc. I added le to "no le llegues" on June 18 after seeing the complete spelling of the move elsewhere on the web. Blame the original mistake on an omission on a list of moves handed out on week 2 or 3.)
PaseaPasate? (after Dame, Enchufe, Adios, etc involving partner change)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no with new partner switch to R-R hold behind your back on 7/8
1,2,3 lead partner to your right behind you to the start of Dile que no position and switch to R-L hold in front on 3/4
5,6,7 end of Dile que no ending with L-R hold
PaseaPasate? arriba?
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no with new partner switch to R-R hold behind your back on 7/8
1,2,3 lead partner to your right behind you to the start of Dile que no position and R-R goes high
5,6,7 lead partner across to your left ending with same position as 1
1,2,3 lead partner to your right behind you to the start of Dile que no position and switch to R-L hold in front on 3/4
5,6,7 end of Dile que no ending with L-R hold
ending of Ocho
5,6,7 scoop partner (she should be facing you when you return) and turn together 180 to get to Dile que no start position
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Mochila
has change of partner at the end
Montana
does not have change of partner at the end
Rosate
1,2,3 spin counterclockwise 360 as I wrap myself around L-R hold
5,6,7 Guapea 5,6,7 with myself wrapped (L hand by my R waist with L arm in front)
1,2,3 spin clockwise two turns to wrap myself the other way
5,6,7 Guapea 5,6,7 with myself wrapped (L hand by my R waist with L arm behind)
1,2,3 duck underneath L-R to my right
5,6,7 Guapea 5,6,7
Babosa
1,2,3 like Enchufe but with R-L connection at waist level intact resulting in wrapping partner
5,6,7 release L-R and unwrap partner (clockwise turn) out so that partner’s R hand is reaching out towards the next leader (as the follower downwards R hand reaches out to you, who will become your new partner and whose R hand which you catch with your L hand on 8 as you release your old partner)
1,2,3 Enchufe with new partner
5,6,7 "accomodating steps" more or less in place
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Dame y no le llegues
1,2,3 Go towards your new partner on your right
5,6,7 turn around and go back to old partner approaching from outside the circle
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
(note if this were Dame dos y no le llegues, you would go to second partner then turn around to the follower just to the left of your normal Dame dos partner. This is the same follower you’d have taken if this were normal Dame. I think no le llegues can be used after Enchufe, Adios, etc. I added le to "no le llegues" on June 18 after seeing the complete spelling of the move elsewhere on the web. Blame the original mistake on an omission on a list of moves handed out on week 2 or 3.)
Pasea
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no with new partner switch to R-R hold behind your back on 7/8
1,2,3 lead partner to your right behind you to the start of Dile que no position and switch to R-L hold in front on 3/4
5,6,7 end of Dile que no ending with L-R hold
Pasea
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no with new partner switch to R-R hold behind your back on 7/8
1,2,3 lead partner to your right behind you to the start of Dile que no position and R-R goes high
5,6,7 lead partner across to your left ending with same position as 1
1,2,3 lead partner to your right behind you to the start of Dile que no position and switch to R-L hold in front on 3/4
5,6,7 end of Dile que no ending with L-R hold
ending of Ocho
5,6,7 scoop partner (she should be facing you when you return) and turn together 180 to get to Dile que no start position
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Mochila
has change of partner at the end
Montana
does not have change of partner at the end
Mind numbing improvers with Cristian, Dee and Co.
April 27, 2005
closed body basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead ending with switching hands to R-R only
1,2,3 prepare partner (side to side)
5,6,7 lead partner to a pivot turn as I turn counterclockwise (Sergio might call this left hand turn)
1,2,3 give partner a quick hat and return to position while initiating cross body lead
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and lead partner to a 360 counterclockwise turn that is interrupted with my L hand being placed on partner's L shoulder - I am positioned to the right of my partner and slightly behind
1,2,3 twist partner (continuing counterclockwise motion) on 1 and back in place on 2,3
5,6,7 lead partner to a 1 1/2 clockwise turn to face me with R high
1,2,3 pivot and turn 180 clockwise
5,6,7 back accommodating step as crossed hand hold with L high is established
1,2,3 initiate cross body lead
5,6,7 end like Titanic (both arms outstretched)
1,2,3,5,6,7 another twist and back on 1,2,3 and another 1 1/2 clockwise turn for partner on 5,6,7 with R hand high and L-L released (normal finish for Titanic)
1,2,3 another pivot while placing partner's R hand on my L neck on 1/2
5,6,7 duck head underneath partner's hand as back basic is completed
I was losing my mind from boredom. Practice is always good but it's not as useful dancing with worse dancers as it is dancing with better people. I can't believe I'm becoming a snob although I'm not that good.
closed body basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead ending with switching hands to R-R only
1,2,3 prepare partner (side to side)
5,6,7 lead partner to a pivot turn as I turn counterclockwise (Sergio might call this left hand turn)
1,2,3 give partner a quick hat and return to position while initiating cross body lead
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and lead partner to a 360 counterclockwise turn that is interrupted with my L hand being placed on partner's L shoulder - I am positioned to the right of my partner and slightly behind
1,2,3 twist partner (continuing counterclockwise motion) on 1 and back in place on 2,3
5,6,7 lead partner to a 1 1/2 clockwise turn to face me with R high
1,2,3 pivot and turn 180 clockwise
5,6,7 back accommodating step as crossed hand hold with L high is established
1,2,3 initiate cross body lead
5,6,7 end like Titanic (both arms outstretched)
1,2,3,5,6,7 another twist and back on 1,2,3 and another 1 1/2 clockwise turn for partner on 5,6,7 with R hand high and L-L released (normal finish for Titanic)
1,2,3 another pivot while placing partner's R hand on my L neck on 1/2
5,6,7 duck head underneath partner's hand as back basic is completed
I was losing my mind from boredom. Practice is always good but it's not as useful dancing with worse dancers as it is dancing with better people. I can't believe I'm becoming a snob although I'm not that good.
Final Intermediate with Cristian & Dee for near future
April 27, 2005
closed hold basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead ending with open hold
1,2,3 prepare follower for a double turn
5,6,7 lead partner to a clockwise double turn with L hand high and R hand low (R goes to the left side and leave partner's L hand behind by her R waist) - let go with R hand during the second turn and reconnect on 7/8
1,2,3 open break on 1 (no need to go back though), overtake on 2 with L hand high and R low, cross over to R on 3 (begin to lower L hand) - you and your partner is positioned back-to-back on 4
5,6,7 continue to R on 5 with R hand high (look at partner), turn 90 to 180 counterclockwise and return to open hold by turning partner clockwise
1,2,3 wrap partner L high and R low (180 counterclockwise for partner) - keep L somewhat high and stiff
5,6,7 push partner back and underneath both arms on 5 as hook turn (180) is initiated and end with arms crossed in front around my neck (L hand by my R side neck and R hand by my L side neck) - I am positioned in front of my partner on 8 and partner's hands are dropped to my waist - switch hands to L-L and R-R
1,2,3 push back on 1, pull and position partner to my left side with L arm somewhat outstretched and R hand by my R waist to keep partner close
5,6,7 lead partner to a free clockwise turn while placing partner's L hand behind her waist - meanwhile do a hook turn and get hold of partner's L hand behind by her R waist with my R hand
1,2,3 cross body lead start keeping partner's L hand behind by her R waist
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and lead partner to a turn (counterclockwise) with L hand high first and release then with R hand high on 6,7 and preventing partner from completing the turn by catching her on the shoulder with L hand on 7
1,2,3 continue twisting partner counterclockwise on 1 and return on 2,3 (both facing same direction with partner in front)
5,6,7 lead partner to a 1 1/2 clockwise turn with R hand high
1,2,3 initiate cross body lead while placing R-L on partner's L shoulder on 1
5,6,7 complete cross body lead simple
I lost my concentration towards the end thus making this a bit of a fiasco.
closed hold basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead ending with open hold
1,2,3 prepare follower for a double turn
5,6,7 lead partner to a clockwise double turn with L hand high and R hand low (R goes to the left side and leave partner's L hand behind by her R waist) - let go with R hand during the second turn and reconnect on 7/8
1,2,3 open break on 1 (no need to go back though), overtake on 2 with L hand high and R low, cross over to R on 3 (begin to lower L hand) - you and your partner is positioned back-to-back on 4
5,6,7 continue to R on 5 with R hand high (look at partner), turn 90 to 180 counterclockwise and return to open hold by turning partner clockwise
1,2,3 wrap partner L high and R low (180 counterclockwise for partner) - keep L somewhat high and stiff
5,6,7 push partner back and underneath both arms on 5 as hook turn (180) is initiated and end with arms crossed in front around my neck (L hand by my R side neck and R hand by my L side neck) - I am positioned in front of my partner on 8 and partner's hands are dropped to my waist - switch hands to L-L and R-R
1,2,3 push back on 1, pull and position partner to my left side with L arm somewhat outstretched and R hand by my R waist to keep partner close
5,6,7 lead partner to a free clockwise turn while placing partner's L hand behind her waist - meanwhile do a hook turn and get hold of partner's L hand behind by her R waist with my R hand
1,2,3 cross body lead start keeping partner's L hand behind by her R waist
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and lead partner to a turn (counterclockwise) with L hand high first and release then with R hand high on 6,7 and preventing partner from completing the turn by catching her on the shoulder with L hand on 7
1,2,3 continue twisting partner counterclockwise on 1 and return on 2,3 (both facing same direction with partner in front)
5,6,7 lead partner to a 1 1/2 clockwise turn with R hand high
1,2,3 initiate cross body lead while placing R-L on partner's L shoulder on 1
5,6,7 complete cross body lead simple
I lost my concentration towards the end thus making this a bit of a fiasco.
Mezcla and Havana with Peter & Cinzia
April 25, 2005
Enchufe doble
1,2,3 enchufe start and stop partner from finishing by placing hand on partner's shoulder on 3
5,6,7 back to original position
1,2,3 enchufe start - finish as normal
5,6,7 accomodating (no change of partner unlike enchufe in Helen & Rhona's Rueda version)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no (finish with R-R hold and possibly L-L underneath optional)
Sombrero
1,2,3 pimienta like start, crossed hand hold with R-R on top (R-R is more important, L-L connection can be made during latter part of 1,2,3
5,6,7 lead partner to ~ 1 3/4 clockwise turn with both hands (R goes up before L) and finish in normal sombrero position then release on 8 (partner's L arm swings out and is placed on my shoulder to make it more comfortable)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Mezcla – Mix
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 accomodating (try back and in place to give partner a swinging motion) as hold is changed to R-R
1,2,3 push forward on 1 (this is my own) pull on 2 to wrap partner at shoulder level (partner turns counterclockwise 180)
5,6,7 unwrap partner and lead partner to an additional turn (about 1 1/2 clockwise) and finish by giving partner a hat
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Havana
1,2,3 sientala like start
5,6,7 unwrap
1,2,3 another sientala like start
5,6,7 unwrap
1,2,3 two-handed enchufe
5,6,7 hook turn with two hands high
1,2,3 sacala-like except R-L hold is kept connected like Setenta (and ending up wrapping partner like Setenta)
5,6,7 unwrap and walk around partner in clockwise direction
1,2,3 continue to walk around in clockwise direction to get to proper position for Dile que no and finish with arm lock for Dile que no
5,6,7 lead partner across to finish Dile que no
Enchufe doble
1,2,3 enchufe start and stop partner from finishing by placing hand on partner's shoulder on 3
5,6,7 back to original position
1,2,3 enchufe start - finish as normal
5,6,7 accomodating (no change of partner unlike enchufe in Helen & Rhona's Rueda version)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no (finish with R-R hold and possibly L-L underneath optional)
Sombrero
1,2,3 pimienta like start, crossed hand hold with R-R on top (R-R is more important, L-L connection can be made during latter part of 1,2,3
5,6,7 lead partner to ~ 1 3/4 clockwise turn with both hands (R goes up before L) and finish in normal sombrero position then release on 8 (partner's L arm swings out and is placed on my shoulder to make it more comfortable)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Mezcla – Mix
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 accomodating (try back and in place to give partner a swinging motion) as hold is changed to R-R
1,2,3 push forward on 1 (this is my own) pull on 2 to wrap partner at shoulder level (partner turns counterclockwise 180)
5,6,7 unwrap partner and lead partner to an additional turn (about 1 1/2 clockwise) and finish by giving partner a hat
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Havana
1,2,3 sientala like start
5,6,7 unwrap
1,2,3 another sientala like start
5,6,7 unwrap
1,2,3 two-handed enchufe
5,6,7 hook turn with two hands high
1,2,3 sacala-like except R-L hold is kept connected like Setenta (and ending up wrapping partner like Setenta)
5,6,7 unwrap and walk around partner in clockwise direction
1,2,3 continue to walk around in clockwise direction to get to proper position for Dile que no and finish with arm lock for Dile que no
5,6,7 lead partner across to finish Dile que no
Montana and Mochila with Peter
April 18, 2005
Enchufe (no partner change)
1,2,3 exchange places with partner with L hand above partner’s forehead and turning clockwise 180 on 3 (partner turns counterclockwise)
5,6,7 accomodating (back and in place works pretty well while pushing (hardly) on 5 and pulling slightly on 6,7 worked well for me)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Vacilara
1,2,3 Pimienta like steps with L-R hold and lead partner across on 2,3 to slightly overtake me
5,6,7 lead partner to a free clockwise 1 1/2 turn and use R hand to prevent partner from straying too much
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Montana (mountain)
1,2,3 Pimienta like steps with crossed hold with R-R on top
5,6,7 lead partner to a ~1 1/2 clockwise turn with R going over first and ending with another crossed hold (as opposed to Sombrero-hold, etc)
1,2,3 two-handed enchufe start
5,6,7 hook turn
1,2,3 two-handed enchufe start
5,6,7 continue walking clockwise to get to proper Dile que no start position and give self and partner hat simultaneously
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Sientala los dos (both seat down)
1,2,3 wrap partner (open hold start, L hand high R hand low and partner turns counterclockwise 180)
5,6,7 a quick sit down on 5 and unwrap on 6,7
1,2,3 wrap self (open hold, R hand high L hand low and turn self counterclockwise 180)
5,6,7 a quick sit down on 5 and unwrap on 6,7
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 accomodating steps
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Mochila (rucksack)
1,2,3 Pimienta like steps with crossed hold with R-R on top
5,6,7 lead partner to a ~1 1/2 clockwise turn with R going over first and ending with another crossed hold (as opposed to Sombrero-hold, etc)
1,2,3 R hand up and lead partner to a 180 counterclockwise turn and ending in “sweetheart” position with both hands just above partner’s shoulders
5,6,7 to other side of sweetheart (moving to right) with both hands still above partner’s shoulders
1,2,3 moving to left and ending with R hand lowered to partner’s waist (L hand still at shoulder level)
5,6,7 moving to right and ending with both hands lowered to partner’s waist
1,2,3 R hand over partner’s head as moving to left
5,6,7 accomodating-like step and give partner and self hat simultaneously
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Excellent. After a dearth of interesting new moves recently, Montana and Mochila goes into my repertoire more or less instantly with minor changes to the starting point (similar treatment done as Sombrero).
Enchufe (no partner change)
1,2,3 exchange places with partner with L hand above partner’s forehead and turning clockwise 180 on 3 (partner turns counterclockwise)
5,6,7 accomodating (back and in place works pretty well while pushing (hardly) on 5 and pulling slightly on 6,7 worked well for me)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Vacilara
1,2,3 Pimienta like steps with L-R hold and lead partner across on 2,3 to slightly overtake me
5,6,7 lead partner to a free clockwise 1 1/2 turn and use R hand to prevent partner from straying too much
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Montana (mountain)
1,2,3 Pimienta like steps with crossed hold with R-R on top
5,6,7 lead partner to a ~1 1/2 clockwise turn with R going over first and ending with another crossed hold (as opposed to Sombrero-hold, etc)
1,2,3 two-handed enchufe start
5,6,7 hook turn
1,2,3 two-handed enchufe start
5,6,7 continue walking clockwise to get to proper Dile que no start position and give self and partner hat simultaneously
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Sientala los dos (both seat down)
1,2,3 wrap partner (open hold start, L hand high R hand low and partner turns counterclockwise 180)
5,6,7 a quick sit down on 5 and unwrap on 6,7
1,2,3 wrap self (open hold, R hand high L hand low and turn self counterclockwise 180)
5,6,7 a quick sit down on 5 and unwrap on 6,7
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 accomodating steps
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Mochila (rucksack)
1,2,3 Pimienta like steps with crossed hold with R-R on top
5,6,7 lead partner to a ~1 1/2 clockwise turn with R going over first and ending with another crossed hold (as opposed to Sombrero-hold, etc)
1,2,3 R hand up and lead partner to a 180 counterclockwise turn and ending in “sweetheart” position with both hands just above partner’s shoulders
5,6,7 to other side of sweetheart (moving to right) with both hands still above partner’s shoulders
1,2,3 moving to left and ending with R hand lowered to partner’s waist (L hand still at shoulder level)
5,6,7 moving to right and ending with both hands lowered to partner’s waist
1,2,3 R hand over partner’s head as moving to left
5,6,7 accomodating-like step and give partner and self hat simultaneously
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
Excellent. After a dearth of interesting new moves recently, Montana and Mochila goes into my repertoire more or less instantly with minor changes to the starting point (similar treatment done as Sombrero).
Ivan & Sally substituting for Johnny & Serap
April 15, 2005
I don't think the point of this class was about learning new routines. Instead the focus was on LA stylizations and being more smooth (using deceleration rather than being robotic), etc. Routine done was not linear but added things in the beginning and modified the middle section, etc. Also experimentation was highly encouraged (easier said than done).
Anyhow, the completed routine as finished (with variations and stylizations) is as follows,
1,2,3 pivot turn for leader (Double turn could be done too, but I don't think anyone was up for it)
5,6,7 hook turn for leader
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead (starting with somewhat closed and ending with open)
1,2,3 cross body lead start with leader's stylization (L arm hook over partner's R arm and ending again with open L-R hold) - this might have been for the prev. cross body
5,6,7 end of cross body lead with follower's stylization (followers style: L arm straight forward on 5 as walking forward, turn as usual on 6,7 with L hand doing her hair) - change hands to crossed with R over L
1,2,3 basic and lift R arm up and in front of follower's forehead on 3 (no later than 4) and keep L low and ready to break
5,6,7 lead partner to pivot (clockwise 360) turn keeping R high and L low (break) ending with partner's L arm behind her back - R-R can be used to give partner a hat slowly starting on 8
1,2,3 finish giving partner a hat but keeping connection with R hand as I go into cross body lead start
5,6,7 finish cross body lead with clockwise (reverse!) turn for partner to get back into open - ending with another crossed hold but with L-L on top (note: there is also a one handed variation explained below)
1,2,3,5,6,7 another cross body lead, leading partner forward presumably with R hand on 5 and turning partner counterclockwise to get to a Titanic position but without staying in Titanic position for a whole beat... instead, keep both outstretched hands fairly low and gradually lower it starting on 8 - a sharper move could signal a more complex maneuver on next 1)
(variation with one-hand hold R-R)
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead as above except using R-R only. L hand can be placed on partner's shoulder starting at 1 to guide the turn for the follower. Otherwise, it's same as above (and familiar) except there's an optional follower's stylization on 8 (chest up)
1,2,3 forward and to left on 1 as hand(s) are gradually lowered and then R hand is back up on 3 in front of follower's forehead - note: for two-handed version, there is also a leader's stylization where both hands are lowered and move over and around partner's hands on 8,1
5,6,7 lead partner to clockwise turn with R hand - ending with crossed hold with R-R above L-L
1,2,3 pivot turn for leader with R high and L low ending with ~wrap
5,6,7 variation 1 - release R and use it (going around in counterclockwise circular motion in front) to break L-L with upper R arm and toss partner's L hand up (follower's stylization here) -- could lead to another crossed hold or open hold
5,6,7 variation 2 - lower neck and go under L-L hold
[note added in June: There was a case of mistaken identity. Ivan's teaching partner today was Zina, not Sally.]
I don't think the point of this class was about learning new routines. Instead the focus was on LA stylizations and being more smooth (using deceleration rather than being robotic), etc. Routine done was not linear but added things in the beginning and modified the middle section, etc. Also experimentation was highly encouraged (easier said than done).
Anyhow, the completed routine as finished (with variations and stylizations) is as follows,
1,2,3 pivot turn for leader (Double turn could be done too, but I don't think anyone was up for it)
5,6,7 hook turn for leader
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead (starting with somewhat closed and ending with open)
1,2,3 cross body lead start with leader's stylization (L arm hook over partner's R arm and ending again with open L-R hold) - this might have been for the prev. cross body
5,6,7 end of cross body lead with follower's stylization (followers style: L arm straight forward on 5 as walking forward, turn as usual on 6,7 with L hand doing her hair) - change hands to crossed with R over L
1,2,3 basic and lift R arm up and in front of follower's forehead on 3 (no later than 4) and keep L low and ready to break
5,6,7 lead partner to pivot (clockwise 360) turn keeping R high and L low (break) ending with partner's L arm behind her back - R-R can be used to give partner a hat slowly starting on 8
1,2,3 finish giving partner a hat but keeping connection with R hand as I go into cross body lead start
5,6,7 finish cross body lead with clockwise (reverse!) turn for partner to get back into open - ending with another crossed hold but with L-L on top (note: there is also a one handed variation explained below)
1,2,3,5,6,7 another cross body lead, leading partner forward presumably with R hand on 5 and turning partner counterclockwise to get to a Titanic position but without staying in Titanic position for a whole beat... instead, keep both outstretched hands fairly low and gradually lower it starting on 8 - a sharper move could signal a more complex maneuver on next 1)
(variation with one-hand hold R-R)
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead as above except using R-R only. L hand can be placed on partner's shoulder starting at 1 to guide the turn for the follower. Otherwise, it's same as above (and familiar) except there's an optional follower's stylization on 8 (chest up)
1,2,3 forward and to left on 1 as hand(s) are gradually lowered and then R hand is back up on 3 in front of follower's forehead - note: for two-handed version, there is also a leader's stylization where both hands are lowered and move over and around partner's hands on 8,1
5,6,7 lead partner to clockwise turn with R hand - ending with crossed hold with R-R above L-L
1,2,3 pivot turn for leader with R high and L low ending with ~wrap
5,6,7 variation 1 - release R and use it (going around in counterclockwise circular motion in front) to break L-L with upper R arm and toss partner's L hand up (follower's stylization here) -- could lead to another crossed hold or open hold
5,6,7 variation 2 - lower neck and go under L-L hold
[note added in June: There was a case of mistaken identity. Ivan's teaching partner today was Zina, not Sally.]
Casino Rueda with Helen & Rhona - Beginners #5
April 14, 2005
Ocho
1,2,3 Enchufe start
5,6,7,1,2,3 walk around your partner (on your right) then circle around another follower counterclockwise and come back toward original partner
5,6,7 Turn original partner around (details?)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
See Week 9 notes for better description of Ocho with addendum made on Week 8.
Ida
1,2,3 Enchufe start
5,6,7 Get to second next partner (like Dame dos)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no with new partner
Fly
1,2,3 Step away from partner like Pimienta and clap with hands high on 1 and back in place on 3 then finish 5,6,7 like Guapea
Media
1,2,3 Step away from partner like Pimienta and clap with hands low on 1 and back in place on 3 then finish 5,6,7 like Guapea
Ping Pong
1,2,3 Guapea start
5,6,7 like Guapea on 5 but straight back on 6 then jump backwards on 7
1,2,3 Bend forward and make hip-hip contact with the follower behind on 1 back in place by 3
5,6,7 Guapea finish
Sientala los dos
1,2,3 Swing to left on 1, turn partner counterclockwise 180 with L hand moving and R hand in place on 2,3 and wrap partner with both hands ending low and both facing same direction by 4
5,6,7 Seat partner on 5, unwrap (clockwise 180 turn) partner on 6,7
1,2,3 Turn self counterclockwise 180 with R hand moving and L hand steady to wrap myself with both hands low
5,6,7 Take a seat on 5, unwrap (clockwise) self on 6,7
1,2,3 Enchufe
5,6,7 Move to next partner on right
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no with new partner
Enchufe pa’ arriba
1,2,3 Enchufe start as usual
5,6,7 as usual on 5,6 then on 7 step hard to center and turn around
1,2,3 Go instead to partner on left
5,6,7 end of Dile que no
similar can be done with Adios pa’ arriba or Dame pa’ arriba (although Dame pa’ arriba could be different depending on whether it’s Dame pa’ arriba (go immediately to new partner on left) or Dame … pa’ arriba (do Dame with partner on right, then go to new partner on left)
Pasan las manos
I’m not sure how we got into this but this is called while everyone join hands in circle with men going in and out of the center on 1,2,3 and women going in and out of the center on 5,6,7
1,2,3 walk in and out of the center – let go of the follower on left on 4
5,6,7 lead/pull partner on right across to my left side
1,2,3 walk in and out as connection is made with new follower on left – let go of the follower on left on 4 again and repeat indefinitely
Bacala?Bajala – generally during Abajo
1,2,3 Go forward on 1, in place on 2, back in place on 3 while partner’s hand is tossed to my neck
5,6,7 Twist (counterclockwise) dip – probably with left hand protecting partner’s head
1,2,3,5,6,7 back to Abajo
Tarrito then something - During Abajo (or Arriba)
1,2,3 raise L hand and start off as if moving to next partner above
5,6,7 turn around and go back to original partner
(presumably during Arriba, it's the followers who fake the change)
Some new basic step
Side to side basic starting with stepping to left (and center) on 1 and R foot sliding to left on 3, and stepping to right (outside of circle) on 5 and L foot sliding to right on 7
Ocho
1,2,3 Enchufe start
5,6,7,1,2,3 walk around your partner (on your right) then circle around another follower counterclockwise and come back toward original partner
5,6,7 Turn original partner around (details?)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no
See Week 9 notes for better description of Ocho with addendum made on Week 8.
Ida
1,2,3 Enchufe start
5,6,7 Get to second next partner (like Dame dos)
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no with new partner
Fly
1,2,3 Step away from partner like Pimienta and clap with hands high on 1 and back in place on 3 then finish 5,6,7 like Guapea
Media
1,2,3 Step away from partner like Pimienta and clap with hands low on 1 and back in place on 3 then finish 5,6,7 like Guapea
Ping Pong
1,2,3 Guapea start
5,6,7 like Guapea on 5 but straight back on 6 then jump backwards on 7
1,2,3 Bend forward and make hip-hip contact with the follower behind on 1 back in place by 3
5,6,7 Guapea finish
Sientala los dos
1,2,3 Swing to left on 1, turn partner counterclockwise 180 with L hand moving and R hand in place on 2,3 and wrap partner with both hands ending low and both facing same direction by 4
5,6,7 Seat partner on 5, unwrap (clockwise 180 turn) partner on 6,7
1,2,3 Turn self counterclockwise 180 with R hand moving and L hand steady to wrap myself with both hands low
5,6,7 Take a seat on 5, unwrap (clockwise) self on 6,7
1,2,3 Enchufe
5,6,7 Move to next partner on right
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no with new partner
Enchufe pa’ arriba
1,2,3 Enchufe start as usual
5,6,7 as usual on 5,6 then on 7 step hard to center and turn around
1,2,3 Go instead to partner on left
5,6,7 end of Dile que no
similar can be done with Adios pa’ arriba or Dame pa’ arriba (although Dame pa’ arriba could be different depending on whether it’s Dame pa’ arriba (go immediately to new partner on left) or Dame … pa’ arriba (do Dame with partner on right, then go to new partner on left)
Pasan las manos
I’m not sure how we got into this but this is called while everyone join hands in circle with men going in and out of the center on 1,2,3 and women going in and out of the center on 5,6,7
1,2,3 walk in and out of the center – let go of the follower on left on 4
5,6,7 lead/pull partner on right across to my left side
1,2,3 walk in and out as connection is made with new follower on left – let go of the follower on left on 4 again and repeat indefinitely
1,2,3 Go forward on 1, in place on 2, back in place on 3 while partner’s hand is tossed to my neck
5,6,7 Twist (counterclockwise) dip – probably with left hand protecting partner’s head
1,2,3,5,6,7 back to Abajo
Tarrito then something - During Abajo (or Arriba)
1,2,3 raise L hand and start off as if moving to next partner above
5,6,7 turn around and go back to original partner
(presumably during Arriba, it's the followers who fake the change)
Some new basic step
Side to side basic starting with stepping to left (and center) on 1 and R foot sliding to left on 3, and stepping to right (outside of circle) on 5 and L foot sliding to right on 7
Titanic swaps - Cristian & Dee Intermediate
April 13, 2005
1,2,3,5,6,7 Closed hold basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 Cross body lead ending with open position
1,2,3 Prepare partner for a double turn clockwise (both hands swing to left on 1 as L foot goes to left on 1, back in place on 2,3 and R hand goes up in front of partner’s forehead on 3
5,6,7 Lead partner to a clockwise double turn – give partner a hat with R-L but keeping the connection starting as early as 8
1,2,3 Get into cross body position with R hand behind partner’s neck (hat)
5,6,7 Lead partner across on 5, and turn partner clockwise 180 with both hands kept connected – end facing each other
1,2,3 Swing arms to left on 1 and turn partner counterclockwise 180 so that both partner and I are facing the same direction on 4 with me in front – switch hands as early as 4
5,6,7 Turn myself 180 clockwise and end with both arms stretched out and connected (like Titanic but with me in front)
1,2,3 Lower both hands on 1 (if anything pushing partner back on 1 and pulling on 2) and L hand goes high and around to R side by 3
5,6,7 Pull partner forward with both hands around on my right side and end with Titanic position - This involves turning partner 360 counterclockwise
1,2,3 Lower both hands on 1 and bring both up on 2,3 above partner’s head
5,6,7 Lead partner to a clockwise double-turn (after the first turn, release briefly the L-R connection and catch it underneath again – basic idea is to end with L-R above R-L at then end of the turn)
1,2,3 Give partner a hat with R-L and give myself a hat with L-R at the same time and go into cross body lead position
5,6,7 Finish cross body lead ending with open position
1,2,3,5,6,7 Guapeando (mirror image basic with both going back on 1 and forward on 5) indefinitely
Dee pretty much insisted again that I should do Improvers class as well. Considering their change in schedule next week (Intermediate class before Beginners/Improvers), it would be silly not to do as suggested.
1,2,3,5,6,7 Closed hold basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 Cross body lead ending with open position
1,2,3 Prepare partner for a double turn clockwise (both hands swing to left on 1 as L foot goes to left on 1, back in place on 2,3 and R hand goes up in front of partner’s forehead on 3
5,6,7 Lead partner to a clockwise double turn – give partner a hat with R-L but keeping the connection starting as early as 8
1,2,3 Get into cross body position with R hand behind partner’s neck (hat)
5,6,7 Lead partner across on 5, and turn partner clockwise 180 with both hands kept connected – end facing each other
1,2,3 Swing arms to left on 1 and turn partner counterclockwise 180 so that both partner and I are facing the same direction on 4 with me in front – switch hands as early as 4
5,6,7 Turn myself 180 clockwise and end with both arms stretched out and connected (like Titanic but with me in front)
1,2,3 Lower both hands on 1 (if anything pushing partner back on 1 and pulling on 2) and L hand goes high and around to R side by 3
5,6,7 Pull partner forward with both hands around on my right side and end with Titanic position - This involves turning partner 360 counterclockwise
1,2,3 Lower both hands on 1 and bring both up on 2,3 above partner’s head
5,6,7 Lead partner to a clockwise double-turn (after the first turn, release briefly the L-R connection and catch it underneath again – basic idea is to end with L-R above R-L at then end of the turn)
1,2,3 Give partner a hat with R-L and give myself a hat with L-R at the same time and go into cross body lead position
5,6,7 Finish cross body lead ending with open position
1,2,3,5,6,7 Guapeando (mirror image basic with both going back on 1 and forward on 5) indefinitely
Dee pretty much insisted again that I should do Improvers class as well. Considering their change in schedule next week (Intermediate class before Beginners/Improvers), it would be silly not to do as suggested.
Cinzia’s special - Peter
April 11, 2005
Enchufe doble (1,2,3,5,6,7,1,2,3,5,6,7) no change of partner – Dile que no (1,2,3,5,6,7)
Peter and Cinzia’s made-up sequence (would work nicely as partner dance with minimal change) – given a long joke name essentially meaning Cinzia’s special
1,2,3 like Enchufe but with R-L connection as well kept low for a wrap
5,6,7 release L-R connection, pull with R hand to unwrap partner clockwise(!?) 360 but reconnect L-R to prevent further turn on 8
1,2,3 walk forward and slightly to left with R hand high and give myself a wrap around my neck (and turn around)
5,6,7 lift both hands up and get myself out of neck wrap and lower hands
1,2,3 another enchufe except with both hands high (can change so that L hand is hold both of partner’s hands)
5,6,7 accomodating steps as I give myself a hat of sort (both of partner’s arms around my neck) – this can be finished during next 1,2,3 also
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no ending with R-R hold
1,2,3 Pimienta start and get ready for Sombrero by also getting L-L hold underneath R-R
5,6,7 Turn partner clockwise ~1 3/4 with R hand going over followed by L hand – R hand goes into the usual sombrero position resting on partner’s R shoulder but L hand stays above my R shoulder instead of my L shoulder as in standard sombrero
1,2,3 Release R-R hold and re-establish R-R hold next to partner’s L waist/chest as cross body lead start is done
5,6,7 turn partner counterclockwise ~1 3/4 with R going over first (should end with crossed hand hold with R-R underneath L-L)
1,2,3 another cross body lead start
5,6,7 turn partner 1 1/2 and end in hands-outstretched “Titanic” position
1,2,3 side step and back in place (lower both hands and then back up)
5,6,7 turn partner 1 1/2 (starting from beat 1) clockwise
1,2,3 give partner a hat first (possibly as early as previous beat 8) as cross body lead is initiated and try to give myself a hat as well if possible
5,6,7 complete cross body lead
Enchufe doble (1,2,3,5,6,7,1,2,3,5,6,7) no change of partner – Dile que no (1,2,3,5,6,7)
Peter and Cinzia’s made-up sequence (would work nicely as partner dance with minimal change) – given a long joke name essentially meaning Cinzia’s special
1,2,3 like Enchufe but with R-L connection as well kept low for a wrap
5,6,7 release L-R connection, pull with R hand to unwrap partner clockwise(!?) 360 but reconnect L-R to prevent further turn on 8
1,2,3 walk forward and slightly to left with R hand high and give myself a wrap around my neck (and turn around)
5,6,7 lift both hands up and get myself out of neck wrap and lower hands
1,2,3 another enchufe except with both hands high (can change so that L hand is hold both of partner’s hands)
5,6,7 accomodating steps as I give myself a hat of sort (both of partner’s arms around my neck) – this can be finished during next 1,2,3 also
1,2,3,5,6,7 Dile que no ending with R-R hold
1,2,3 Pimienta start and get ready for Sombrero by also getting L-L hold underneath R-R
5,6,7 Turn partner clockwise ~1 3/4 with R hand going over followed by L hand – R hand goes into the usual sombrero position resting on partner’s R shoulder but L hand stays above my R shoulder instead of my L shoulder as in standard sombrero
1,2,3 Release R-R hold and re-establish R-R hold next to partner’s L waist/chest as cross body lead start is done
5,6,7 turn partner counterclockwise ~1 3/4 with R going over first (should end with crossed hand hold with R-R underneath L-L)
1,2,3 another cross body lead start
5,6,7 turn partner 1 1/2 and end in hands-outstretched “Titanic” position
1,2,3 side step and back in place (lower both hands and then back up)
5,6,7 turn partner 1 1/2 (starting from beat 1) clockwise
1,2,3 give partner a hat first (possibly as early as previous beat 8) as cross body lead is initiated and try to give myself a hat as well if possible
5,6,7 complete cross body lead
Difficult and ending with follower's shine - Johnny & Serap Advanced
April 8, 2005
Johnny really made this one very tough and fast-paced (for me at least). Then again, this is supposed to be harder than intermediate class, which was solidly intermediate and came off quite nicely, so he probably felt good about uping the ante for this class. I trust my note-taking a bit less than usual.
open hold
1,2,3 cross body lead start
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and then lead a two-handed 1 1/2 turn counterclockwise (it might be possible to end up hold both partner’s hand with my R hand on 8, but it might be easier to keep them with both hands together at this point, especially for those with small hands)
1,2,3 get into another cross body lead start (two-handed or one hand holding both of partner’s hands) [note: In class, leaders and followers were facing the same direction (to which the followers will walk forward on 5) on 3 with followers behind and to right of leaders rather than at normal 90 angle as in standard cross body lead.]
5,6,7 by no later than 5, I really ought to have both partner’s hands in my R hand, as partner is lead forward, and lead partner to a 360 counterclockwise turn that is stopped by my L hand on top of partner’s left shoulder
1,2,3 prep partner (twist partner slightly towards left/counterclockwise on 1 then back to original position by 3)
5,6,7 lead partner to a single or a double clockwise turn depending on ability of partner
Structure of next sequence is as follows - open break to get into cross body start, followed by two consecutive blocking the follower to finish cross body lead in both directions, followed by completing second part of cross body lead with a turn, and finishing with another cross body lead with a minor stylization and to end with a chance for the followers to do a shine.
1,2,3 open break on 1, pull partner back on 2, cross body position on 3 ending with L hand in front of R hand and at higher elevation (or more to my left)
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 (small step back for me), pull partner back on 5, and turn partner 180 counterclockwise facing the other way on 7 (R hand in front or more to my right) (this is like mirror image of cross body on beat 4)
1,2,3 lead partner to right on 1 (as my L foot step to right and slightly forward) now with only L hand hold (release R hand), and pull partner back on 2, and turn partner 180 again clockwise with L hand pointing left (and R hand on partner’s back/shoulder)
5,6,7 lead partner forward (to my left) on 5 and lead partner to a 1 1/2 counterclockwise turn with L hand high on 6,7
1,2,3 get into another cross body lead start and give myself a hat (L hand over my head and ending behind my neck - then release)
5,6,7 finish cross body lead and allow partner to do some shine
follower’s shine
1,2,3,5,6,7 Suzy Q
1,2,3 basic
5,6,7 body swerve
let leaders know they’re done by pull partner back on 1,2,3
leaders can finish with cross body lead finish on 5,6,7
Johnny really made this one very tough and fast-paced (for me at least). Then again, this is supposed to be harder than intermediate class, which was solidly intermediate and came off quite nicely, so he probably felt good about uping the ante for this class. I trust my note-taking a bit less than usual.
open hold
1,2,3 cross body lead start
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and then lead a two-handed 1 1/2 turn counterclockwise (it might be possible to end up hold both partner’s hand with my R hand on 8, but it might be easier to keep them with both hands together at this point, especially for those with small hands)
1,2,3 get into another cross body lead start (two-handed or one hand holding both of partner’s hands) [note: In class, leaders and followers were facing the same direction (to which the followers will walk forward on 5) on 3 with followers behind and to right of leaders rather than at normal 90 angle as in standard cross body lead.]
5,6,7 by no later than 5, I really ought to have both partner’s hands in my R hand, as partner is lead forward, and lead partner to a 360 counterclockwise turn that is stopped by my L hand on top of partner’s left shoulder
1,2,3 prep partner (twist partner slightly towards left/counterclockwise on 1 then back to original position by 3)
5,6,7 lead partner to a single or a double clockwise turn depending on ability of partner
Structure of next sequence is as follows - open break to get into cross body start, followed by two consecutive blocking the follower to finish cross body lead in both directions, followed by completing second part of cross body lead with a turn, and finishing with another cross body lead with a minor stylization and to end with a chance for the followers to do a shine.
1,2,3 open break on 1, pull partner back on 2, cross body position on 3 ending with L hand in front of R hand and at higher elevation (or more to my left)
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 (small step back for me), pull partner back on 5, and turn partner 180 counterclockwise facing the other way on 7 (R hand in front or more to my right) (this is like mirror image of cross body on beat 4)
1,2,3 lead partner to right on 1 (as my L foot step to right and slightly forward) now with only L hand hold (release R hand), and pull partner back on 2, and turn partner 180 again clockwise with L hand pointing left (and R hand on partner’s back/shoulder)
5,6,7 lead partner forward (to my left) on 5 and lead partner to a 1 1/2 counterclockwise turn with L hand high on 6,7
1,2,3 get into another cross body lead start and give myself a hat (L hand over my head and ending behind my neck - then release)
5,6,7 finish cross body lead and allow partner to do some shine
follower’s shine
1,2,3,5,6,7 Suzy Q
1,2,3 basic
5,6,7 body swerve
let leaders know they’re done by pull partner back on 1,2,3
leaders can finish with cross body lead finish on 5,6,7
Cuban wheel step incorporated - Johnny & Serap Intermediate
April 8, 2005
This was a bona fide intermediate level class and was superb!
open hold
1,2,3 basic and raise L hand and keep R hand low on 3 (Setenta-like start)
5,6,7 allow partner to do a pivot turn (clockwise) 180 keeping L high R low [correction: this has to be a full 360 turn]
1,2,3 push partner back on 1 (open break – tiny step back), turn partner counterclockwise as I move around the partner on my left (and turning as much as 180 to reduce the amount of turn for partner)
5,6,7 push partner back on 5 (another open break! – tiny step back) and move forward and to left on with L hand high and R hand released on 6 and turn ~180 (while partner also turns 180) counterclockwise to face partner
open hold
1,2,3 Enchufe start and keep L hand high through 3,4 (and through 5,6,7 and following 1-7)
5,6,7 slightly back on 5, in place on 6, and step forward under L-R hand arch (fairly large step) past partner on 7 and place R hand on partner’s back/shoulder (I think I can do this with back of my R hand)
1,2,3 Cuban wheel step (L foot over R foot on 1) and back and back on 2,3 with L hand still held high all while partner is lead to a clockwise walk (leading with my R hand also) – my suggestion: it may be useful to turn slightly counterclockwise on 3/4 to face the partner because they may not make it back to proper place
5,6,7 make sure there’s enough room then use the momentum to help partner turn clockwise
L-L hold
1,2,3 pivot turn for myself 180 clockwise ending with my L arm behind my back and R arm in normal front position
5,6,7 basic as R hand scoops up partner’s L arm up then toss it (high) back to my L hand (partner can stylize the landing of her L hand back to my L hand)
Note: These three sequences can be easily joined together with couple of simple stylizations (switching hands, etc.) made during pivot turns for partner and/or cross body lead
This was a bona fide intermediate level class and was superb!
open hold
1,2,3 basic and raise L hand and keep R hand low on 3 (Setenta-like start)
5,6,7 allow partner to do a pivot turn (clockwise) 180 keeping L high R low [correction: this has to be a full 360 turn]
1,2,3 push partner back on 1 (open break – tiny step back), turn partner counterclockwise as I move around the partner on my left (and turning as much as 180 to reduce the amount of turn for partner)
5,6,7 push partner back on 5 (another open break! – tiny step back) and move forward and to left on with L hand high and R hand released on 6 and turn ~180 (while partner also turns 180) counterclockwise to face partner
open hold
1,2,3 Enchufe start and keep L hand high through 3,4 (and through 5,6,7 and following 1-7)
5,6,7 slightly back on 5, in place on 6, and step forward under L-R hand arch (fairly large step) past partner on 7 and place R hand on partner’s back/shoulder (I think I can do this with back of my R hand)
1,2,3 Cuban wheel step (L foot over R foot on 1) and back and back on 2,3 with L hand still held high all while partner is lead to a clockwise walk (leading with my R hand also) – my suggestion: it may be useful to turn slightly counterclockwise on 3/4 to face the partner because they may not make it back to proper place
5,6,7 make sure there’s enough room then use the momentum to help partner turn clockwise
L-L hold
1,2,3 pivot turn for myself 180 clockwise ending with my L arm behind my back and R arm in normal front position
5,6,7 basic as R hand scoops up partner’s L arm up then toss it (high) back to my L hand (partner can stylize the landing of her L hand back to my L hand)
Note: These three sequences can be easily joined together with couple of simple stylizations (switching hands, etc.) made during pivot turns for partner and/or cross body lead
Casino Rueda with Rhona & Helen – Beginners #4 (leftovers)
April 7, 2005
Otro (another)
repeat whatever was called last
Enchufe y casate (re-visited from week 2)
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 starting with L-R hold at 4, step forward on 5 and switch to R-R hold, turn counterclockwise ~180 as R is placed behind my back and switch to L-R hold again by the end of 6 and be next to partner (on my left facing the same direction) at 7 and going back to R-R hold to aid in achieving L-R arm-in-arm “marriage” position by 8
1,2,3,5,6,7 start walking forward (in circles) for a wedding march
continuation from Enchufe y casate include:
Se fue – turn around and go in other direction (maintain arm-in-arm except with the other arms)
Arriba – switch to closed hold and walk forward (backwards for partner) in circles
starting position is that partner is on my right
1,2,3 turn partner 180 counterclockwise to in front of me and assume closed hold
5,6,7 start walking forward
Abajo
1,2,3 walk forward on 1 and back in place on 2,3
5,6,7 start walking backwards (indefinitely)
Exibela
1,2,3 walk forward on 1 and back in place on 2,3 – raise L arm on 3
5,6,7 pivot turn (or turn into the center) for partner
continue walking forwards or backwards (depending on whether we were doing Arriba or Abajo previously)
Tarrito
-if during Arriba
walk over to next partner in front and then continue with walking forwards or backwards
-if during Abajo
wait for next partner (coming from front) approaches and then continue with walking forwards or backwards
While doing Pa’l medio (walking into the center and back) after Enchufe al medio, Dame al medio, etc.
Tranca
Similar to Rosa/Flor in the beginning…
1,2,3 walk into the center and make a rose/flower and stay there with arms up and wait for followers to walk into the center
5,6,7 when followers go into the leader’s circle, lower arm and at 7/8 everyone is shoulder to shoulder and walking in circles (clockwise?)
end when Dile que no is called and executed
Otro (another)
repeat whatever was called last
Enchufe y casate (re-visited from week 2)
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 starting with L-R hold at 4, step forward on 5 and switch to R-R hold, turn counterclockwise ~180 as R is placed behind my back and switch to L-R hold again by the end of 6 and be next to partner (on my left facing the same direction) at 7 and going back to R-R hold to aid in achieving L-R arm-in-arm “marriage” position by 8
1,2,3,5,6,7 start walking forward (in circles) for a wedding march
continuation from Enchufe y casate include:
Se fue – turn around and go in other direction (maintain arm-in-arm except with the other arms)
Arriba – switch to closed hold and walk forward (backwards for partner) in circles
starting position is that partner is on my right
1,2,3 turn partner 180 counterclockwise to in front of me and assume closed hold
5,6,7 start walking forward
Abajo
1,2,3 walk forward on 1 and back in place on 2,3
5,6,7 start walking backwards (indefinitely)
Exibela
1,2,3 walk forward on 1 and back in place on 2,3 – raise L arm on 3
5,6,7 pivot turn (or turn into the center) for partner
continue walking forwards or backwards (depending on whether we were doing Arriba or Abajo previously)
Tarrito
-if during Arriba
walk over to next partner in front and then continue with walking forwards or backwards
-if during Abajo
wait for next partner (coming from front) approaches and then continue with walking forwards or backwards
While doing Pa’l medio (walking into the center and back) after Enchufe al medio, Dame al medio, etc.
Tranca
Similar to Rosa/Flor in the beginning…
1,2,3 walk into the center and make a rose/flower and stay there with arms up and wait for followers to walk into the center
5,6,7 when followers go into the leader’s circle, lower arm and at 7/8 everyone is shoulder to shoulder and walking in circles (clockwise?)
end when Dile que no is called and executed
Most technical to date - Cristian & Dee Intermediate
April 6, 2005
1,2,3,5,6,7 closed hold and basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead simple with open hold end
1,2,3 open break and end with L-R high and partner in front and facing same direction at 90 angle from the start (clockwise)
5,6,7 turn partner counterclockwise (2 turns from count 1) and walk along with partner to right
1,2,3 continue to right on 1 and change to R-R hold and back on 2,3
5,6,7 lead partner to a free clockwise turn (1 1/2) and do a hook turn myself to face my partner at the end
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead simple with open hold end
1,2,3 cross body lead start ending with R hand high and L hand low
5,6,7 lead partner across to a 1 1/2 clockwise turn… break L hand low and let go and re-establish L-R hold behind/around partners back waist on 7/8
1,2,3 prep partner (backwards (or sideways to left?) then in place) – let go of L-R hold at the end?
5,6,7 push R hand low forward on 1, then bring it back and wrap partner counterclockwise 360 (from beat 5) with partner’s L hand behind her waist (get ready to catch partner’s L hand at chest level)
1,2,3 cross body lead start and re-establish L-R hold (while keeping R-L hold wrapped around partner with connection behind her waist)
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and unwrap partner to a 1 1/2 counterclockwise turn (remember to keep L hand low at 5 to prevent premature turning)
1,2,3 pivot turn for self with L hand high during the turn and end up wrapping myself on my waist
5,6,7 let go (side to side step) and establish L-L and R-R hold at their respective side on my waist
1,2,3 forward on 1 (while pushing partner back) and to right (on 2) and together (on 3) as partner is pulled to my L side (my L arm outstretched to left)
5,6,7 pull partner to my right on 1 and lead her to a free 1 1/2 clockwise turn on 5,6
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic is okay
1,2,3,5,6,7 closed hold and basic
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead simple with open hold end
1,2,3 open break and end with L-R high and partner in front and facing same direction at 90 angle from the start (clockwise)
5,6,7 turn partner counterclockwise (2 turns from count 1) and walk along with partner to right
1,2,3 continue to right on 1 and change to R-R hold and back on 2,3
5,6,7 lead partner to a free clockwise turn (1 1/2) and do a hook turn myself to face my partner at the end
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead simple with open hold end
1,2,3 cross body lead start ending with R hand high and L hand low
5,6,7 lead partner across to a 1 1/2 clockwise turn… break L hand low and let go and re-establish L-R hold behind/around partners back waist on 7/8
1,2,3 prep partner (backwards (or sideways to left?) then in place) – let go of L-R hold at the end?
5,6,7 push R hand low forward on 1, then bring it back and wrap partner counterclockwise 360 (from beat 5) with partner’s L hand behind her waist (get ready to catch partner’s L hand at chest level)
1,2,3 cross body lead start and re-establish L-R hold (while keeping R-L hold wrapped around partner with connection behind her waist)
5,6,7 lead partner forward on 5 and unwrap partner to a 1 1/2 counterclockwise turn (remember to keep L hand low at 5 to prevent premature turning)
1,2,3 pivot turn for self with L hand high during the turn and end up wrapping myself on my waist
5,6,7 let go (side to side step) and establish L-L and R-R hold at their respective side on my waist
1,2,3 forward on 1 (while pushing partner back) and to right (on 2) and together (on 3) as partner is pulled to my L side (my L arm outstretched to left)
5,6,7 pull partner to my right on 1 and lead her to a free 1 1/2 clockwise turn on 5,6
1,2,3,5,6,7 basic is okay
Adios con la hermana sentada & ajo y perejil - Peter
April 4, 2005
Enchufe (no change) - dile que no [note. I'm using this terminology to replace enchufe-dame (no change of partner)]
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 "accomodating" steps
1,2,3 cross body lead start
5,6,7 lead partner across back to start position
Adios con la hermana sedanta
1,2,3 adios start (way Peter's class does it is to for both to move forward on 1 and be shoulder-to-shoulder. on 2,3, turn/walk partner and self around in (tight) closed hold clockwise 180)
5,6,7 lift L arm and walk underneath the arch on 5,6 - on 7 turn 90 counterclockwise to face the outside the circle
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 accomodating steps while turning both clockwise 90
1,2,3 cross body lead start except on 1, kneel (this is the sedanta part!)
5,6,7 finish leading partner across back to start position (change hands to R-R for next sequence)
Ajo y perejil - garlic and parsley
1,2,3 Pimienta start (away and back from partner as partner is pulled across back in three small steps to slightly overtake self)
5,6,7 turn partner 1 1/2 clockwise with R hand high
1,2,3 Sacala start = walk into center and back and raise R hand high and over partner's head on 3 (no later than 4)
5,6,7 lead partner into center and back with 180 pivot turn (clockwise) to finish sacala (partner's L hand should be placed on her R shoulder at the end)
1,2,3 two-handed coca cola = take partner's L hand with my L hand, get ready to raise L hand high on 3 while keeping R hand low (and ready to "break" it behind her back) ... cross body lead start for footwork
5,6,7 walk backwards/counterclockwise and lead partner to a counterclockwise turn (L high, R low and wrapped behind partner's back waist at the end) ... walk backwards/counterclockwise should be well over 180 and close to 270 while partner's turn could be about 360
1,2,3 release all hands- cross body lead (except this will involve walking backwards for all 3 steps to get back into proper position)
5,6,7 lead partner across back to start position (finish with L-R hold)
1,2,3 Pimienta start
5,6,7 turn partner 1 1/2 clockwise with L hand high
1,2,3 cross body lead start
5,6,7 lead partner across back to start position
Enchufe (no change) - dile que no [note. I'm using this terminology to replace enchufe-dame (no change of partner)]
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 "accomodating" steps
1,2,3 cross body lead start
5,6,7 lead partner across back to start position
Adios con la hermana sedanta
1,2,3 adios start (way Peter's class does it is to for both to move forward on 1 and be shoulder-to-shoulder. on 2,3, turn/walk partner and self around in (tight) closed hold clockwise 180)
5,6,7 lift L arm and walk underneath the arch on 5,6 - on 7 turn 90 counterclockwise to face the outside the circle
1,2,3 enchufe start
5,6,7 accomodating steps while turning both clockwise 90
1,2,3 cross body lead start except on 1, kneel (this is the sedanta part!)
5,6,7 finish leading partner across back to start position (change hands to R-R for next sequence)
Ajo y perejil - garlic and parsley
1,2,3 Pimienta start (away and back from partner as partner is pulled across back in three small steps to slightly overtake self)
5,6,7 turn partner 1 1/2 clockwise with R hand high
1,2,3 Sacala start = walk into center and back and raise R hand high and over partner's head on 3 (no later than 4)
5,6,7 lead partner into center and back with 180 pivot turn (clockwise) to finish sacala (partner's L hand should be placed on her R shoulder at the end)
1,2,3 two-handed coca cola = take partner's L hand with my L hand, get ready to raise L hand high on 3 while keeping R hand low (and ready to "break" it behind her back) ... cross body lead start for footwork
5,6,7 walk backwards/counterclockwise and lead partner to a counterclockwise turn (L high, R low and wrapped behind partner's back waist at the end) ... walk backwards/counterclockwise should be well over 180 and close to 270 while partner's turn could be about 360
1,2,3 release all hands- cross body lead (except this will involve walking backwards for all 3 steps to get back into proper position)
5,6,7 lead partner across back to start position (finish with L-R hold)
1,2,3 Pimienta start
5,6,7 turn partner 1 1/2 clockwise with L hand high
1,2,3 cross body lead start
5,6,7 lead partner across back to start position
Followed by a smaller class with few followers - Johnny & Serap Advanced
April 1, 2005
The partner dancing routine was unusually short yet still difficult. I'm having easier time remembering shines so I'm going to continue recording them.
closed hold (open is okay too)
1,2,3,5,6,7,1,2,3,5,6,7 basic (allowing partner time to stylize or practice their shine)
1,2,3 get into cross body lead
5,6,7 finish cross body lead while I turn clockwise 180 while changing to R-R hold
1,2,3 push partner back on 1, pull partner forward on 2, turn clockwise 180 as R hand catches partner's waist and L hand catches partner's L hand high (latter by 3/4) and turn partner to face the direction where she came from
5,6,7 turn partner 360 (or slightly more) counterclockwise moving back to where she came from on step 1
1,2,3 (Coca cola-like) give myself a hat on 1 as L foot steps forward and to left, R foot step forward and to right (so partner's legs are essentially sandwiched between my two legs) and R hand goes to partner's back to get to tight closed hold on 2, turn pivoting on R foot up to 270 counterclockwise while at the same time scooping/bringing partner along with you for this turn on 3 - this is very difficult!
5,6,7 finish as if this were the end of cross body lead thus continuing counterclockwise motion/momentum (somewhat irregular)
shine of the day (footwork only - not used in long routine - this one felt a bit fluffy at least the way I was doing it)
1 L foot over in front on R
2 R foot step back
3 L foot slide long to L
5 R foot to hook position
6 L foot slightly move over to R
7 R foot slide long to R
1 L foot toe (no weight on it) the ground slightly to left of and behind R foot
2 L foot toe the ground again at a point slightly more to R
3 L foot slide long to L
5 R foot toe the ground slightly to right of and behind L foot
6 R foot toe the ground again at a point slightly more to L
7 R foot slide long to R
7 R foot slide long to R
1 L foot toe the ground slightly to left of and behind R foot
2 L foot toe the ground again at a point slightly more to R
3 R foot jump (slightly) forward while L foot slide to left
5 R foot somewhat long to left (over and in front of L foot)
6 L foot over and behind R foot toeing the ground
7 R foot jump (slightly) to where L foot was (more or less) while L foot slide to L
1 back to basic
Male to female ratio has been even worse for Weds Intermediate classes with Cristian and Dee for past two weeks. It's not all bad especially in smaller classes because this meant I got to dance more with Serap, who gives excellent feedback.
[Edited partner routine on April 28, 2005 for clarification - still not ideal]
Hmm… These notes are not very useful as is. I think the lesson for the partner routine must have been like this -
1,2,3,5,6,7,1,2,3,5,6,7 basic for leader, follower has some footwork styling
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead with leader turning 3/4 clockwise on 6,7 to get back to open hold position with hold switched to R-R
1,2,3,5,6,7 Standard Copa - switching to L-L and R hand landing on follower's waist on 3/4 followed by leading follower to a 1 1/2 traveling counterclockwise turn
1,2,3,5,6,7 This was called Coca cola-like that night. I'm not sure if follower's legs need to be sandwiched - it might be a different variation of a similar technique. Similar effect can be achieved with R foot behind follower on 2 (with tight hold) and turning as a couple in a counterclockwise rotation on 3, followed by normal cross body ending
[new edition added January 30, 2006]
The partner dancing routine was unusually short yet still difficult. I'm having easier time remembering shines so I'm going to continue recording them.
closed hold (open is okay too)
1,2,3,5,6,7,1,2,3,5,6,7 basic (allowing partner time to stylize or practice their shine)
1,2,3 get into cross body lead
5,6,7 finish cross body lead while I turn clockwise 180 while changing to R-R hold
1,2,3 push partner back on 1, pull partner forward on 2, turn clockwise 180 as R hand catches partner's waist and L hand catches partner's L hand high (latter by 3/4) and turn partner to face the direction where she came from
5,6,7 turn partner 360 (or slightly more) counterclockwise moving back to where she came from on step 1
1,2,3 (Coca cola-like) give myself a hat on 1 as L foot steps forward and to left, R foot step forward and to right (so partner's legs are essentially sandwiched between my two legs) and R hand goes to partner's back to get to tight closed hold on 2, turn pivoting on R foot up to 270 counterclockwise while at the same time scooping/bringing partner along with you for this turn on 3 - this is very difficult!
5,6,7 finish as if this were the end of cross body lead thus continuing counterclockwise motion/momentum (somewhat irregular)
shine of the day (footwork only - not used in long routine - this one felt a bit fluffy at least the way I was doing it)
1 L foot over in front on R
2 R foot step back
3 L foot slide long to L
5 R foot to hook position
6 L foot slightly move over to R
7 R foot slide long to R
1 L foot toe (no weight on it) the ground slightly to left of and behind R foot
2 L foot toe the ground again at a point slightly more to R
3 L foot slide long to L
5 R foot toe the ground slightly to right of and behind L foot
6 R foot toe the ground again at a point slightly more to L
7 R foot slide long to R
7 R foot slide long to R
1 L foot toe the ground slightly to left of and behind R foot
2 L foot toe the ground again at a point slightly more to R
3 R foot jump (slightly) forward while L foot slide to left
5 R foot somewhat long to left (over and in front of L foot)
6 L foot over and behind R foot toeing the ground
7 R foot jump (slightly) to where L foot was (more or less) while L foot slide to L
1 back to basic
Male to female ratio has been even worse for Weds Intermediate classes with Cristian and Dee for past two weeks. It's not all bad especially in smaller classes because this meant I got to dance more with Serap, who gives excellent feedback.
[Edited partner routine on April 28, 2005 for clarification - still not ideal]
Hmm… These notes are not very useful as is. I think the lesson for the partner routine must have been like this -
1,2,3,5,6,7,1,2,3,5,6,7 basic for leader, follower has some footwork styling
1,2,3,5,6,7 cross body lead with leader turning 3/4 clockwise on 6,7 to get back to open hold position with hold switched to R-R
1,2,3,5,6,7 Standard Copa - switching to L-L and R hand landing on follower's waist on 3/4 followed by leading follower to a 1 1/2 traveling counterclockwise turn
1,2,3,5,6,7 This was called Coca cola-like that night. I'm not sure if follower's legs need to be sandwiched - it might be a different variation of a similar technique. Similar effect can be achieved with R foot behind follower on 2 (with tight hold) and turning as a couple in a counterclockwise rotation on 3, followed by normal cross body ending
[new edition added January 30, 2006]
A very large class - Johnny & Serap Intermediate
April 1, 2005
This class was seemingly dumbed down a little bit compared to last week (see routine 3) because there were very large number of new people.
routine 1
1,2,3 leader make a pivot turn (clockwise 360) (L hand up)
5,6,7 keep L hand up to lead follower to make a pivot turn (clockwise 360)
routine 2
open hold
1,2,3 basic - raise L hand on 3 and no later than 4 while R hand is kept low
5,6,7 partner reads this lead as a pivot turn for follower (360 clockwise)
1,2,3 push partner away for open break on 1, step to left and forward on 2 as partner is unwrapped counterclockwise (as little as 180 but probably more like 270 depending on how far I go) on 2,3 and I step together on 3
5,6,7 step in place (or slightly to side and return or slightly back and return if any) as L arm goes over partner's arm (~arm lock) - as soon as this is complete, L hand should go to partner's lower shoulder to get ready for closed hold
1,2,3 get into cross body lead position
5,6,7 finish cross body lead
routine 3
tried to to a cross body lead with 1 1/2 turn for the follower (counterclockwise) but this did not work out very well because this was too difficult for most followers and Johnny quickly abandoned this.
routine 4 - spins exclusively for leader (followers are free to stylize)
1,2,3 pivot turn for leader - switch hold to R-L
5,6,7 hook turn for leader - hold switches to L-L then again to R-L
repeat (but I found this very difficult for more than once and pretty much beyond my ability past twice in a row without a break)
This class was seemingly dumbed down a little bit compared to last week (see routine 3) because there were very large number of new people.
routine 1
1,2,3 leader make a pivot turn (clockwise 360) (L hand up)
5,6,7 keep L hand up to lead follower to make a pivot turn (clockwise 360)
routine 2
open hold
1,2,3 basic - raise L hand on 3 and no later than 4 while R hand is kept low
5,6,7 partner reads this lead as a pivot turn for follower (360 clockwise)
1,2,3 push partner away for open break on 1, step to left and forward on 2 as partner is unwrapped counterclockwise (as little as 180 but probably more like 270 depending on how far I go) on 2,3 and I step together on 3
5,6,7 step in place (or slightly to side and return or slightly back and return if any) as L arm goes over partner's arm (~arm lock) - as soon as this is complete, L hand should go to partner's lower shoulder to get ready for closed hold
1,2,3 get into cross body lead position
5,6,7 finish cross body lead
routine 3
tried to to a cross body lead with 1 1/2 turn for the follower (counterclockwise) but this did not work out very well because this was too difficult for most followers and Johnny quickly abandoned this.
routine 4 - spins exclusively for leader (followers are free to stylize)
1,2,3 pivot turn for leader - switch hold to R-L
5,6,7 hook turn for leader - hold switches to L-L then again to R-L
repeat (but I found this very difficult for more than once and pretty much beyond my ability past twice in a row without a break)
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