Since Samba is not a competitional dance in American style, we do dance Samba in many social settings is the U.S. From many observations, I found most of dancers (as a man) doing Samba with left foot start. That is, for example, to dance a basic bounce movement starting with LF forward as slow-a-slow. Then follow by RF back for another Slow-a-slow. And this is true in many studio instructions as well.

While I watched Corky and Shirley's Samba tapes, the basic bounce was taught as RF forward (slow-a-slow) followed by LF back for another slow-a-slow. This RF start teaching carried out through progressive basic movement, Outside basic movement, Whisks and Samba walks in promenade position.

I trust Corky and Shirley's teachings are 100%correct. Why are there many of us (me included) doing the LF forward start? Say, if I dared to start with my RF forward, I am pretty sure I would/might be standing on some lady's toes.

Regards,

Keh Gough

Well, as a lady dancer I would personally be praying that you start with your left foot as I am going to step back on my right foot. I was taught that it was the same principle as the rumba and waltz....same footing. So, if you dance with me...please go on the left
hope that helps you...

Christina

"Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but she did it backwards and in high heels."

The rule, I believe for men, we always start with LF. If we want to start with RF forward, we must 'tell' our ladies. For Samba, many people stick with LF forward and then RF back and never go beyond that. I was taught that you can start with LF forward followed by a RF forward, then LF back. So the LF forward RF back is like reverse turn and we should do exactly that: making gradual left turns. On the other hand, RF forward LF back is like Natual turn and turning right gradually. After a "Natual Basic", do a RF back to swith to "Reverse Basic".

I agree, Corky and Shirley's tapes are the best in International Latin.

Dave

The Int'l syllabus has both a Natural and a Reverse basic step, meaning that you can start with either foot. Of course Corky and Shirley weren't "wrong" (Would I ever dare contradict them?) -- they simply chose one of two options, their own preference.

I haven't seen a Natural basic in any of the American style syllabi that I've worked with (AM, FA, Terpsichore), so I would generally expect to start with my left foot in American or social style here in the U.S... unless I was dancing with a lady who was trained primarily or exclusively in Int'l style, and then it would depend on the preference of her coach or teacher.

That being said, let me make things really easy on you with a quick tip: If you find yourself in a situation where there is some question as to which foot she's accustomed to starting with, you can always ask. Or you can begin standing on one foot with the other foot pointing sideways. She'll usually notice and position herself likewise. If not, do a weight shift or two to give her the message. Movement to the side will synchronize just about anybody.

Sincerely,
Jonathan Atkinson