Level requirement
This is an all levels workshop with a caveat: to participate, you should know the basics of Balboa, meaning you should have taken a couple of months of Balboa lessons before registering. This is to ensure that you do not find yourself overwhelmed and that other attendees can focus on what is being taught.
Look at the list of balboa concepts below and if you do not have the basics required yet, please consider taking regular classes in your local dance scene instead.
- Bal swing
- Pure bal
- Lollys
- Paddle turns
- Toss-out
- Come around
- Swivel
- Up-hold
- Down-hold
- Out and in
Tracks
At MTL BAL JAM, both tracks are designed to cater to different learning styles and preferences rather than levels of experience. There isn’t a track that is more advanced than the other—each offers a unique approach to exploring Balboa. Whether you prefer to dive deep into a few topics or to explore a variety of concepts, the goal is to ensure that everyone can grow and learn at their own pace in a way that resonates with them. Choose the track that best matches your personal learning style and interests!
Tapas
The Tapas Track is perfect for dancers who crave variety and want to sample a little bit of everything. Inspired by the diverse and lively world of Spanish tapas, this track offers a wide range of topics to keep you energized and curious. You’ll experience a medley of concepts and techniques, all designed to expand your Balboa palate. Ideal for those who enjoy exploring many flavors without staying on one dish for too long!
Paella
The Paella Track is designed for dancers who want to savor the richness and depth of Balboa. Much like the iconic Spanish dish it's named after, this track focuses on a select few topics, allowing participants to explore them in detail. You'll have the opportunity to refine your technique, deepen your understanding, and truly immerse yourself in the nuances of the dance. Perfect for those who enjoy focusing on the intricate flavors of Balboa and prefer a steady, enriching pace.
Class descriptions
Tapas
1. Lucía & Javi - Balboa swivels with mediterranean flair
We will dive into the fundamentals of this essential balboa movement, then spice things up with juicy variations that add texture and rhythm (just like onions do in a good tortilla, yes we are on team with onions!).
2. Neus & Albert - Pure Bal Dice
Let's play with the geometrics of Pure Bal.
3. Lucía & Javi - Old Timers Inspiration
We will take a journey to the roots of balboa. The aim of this class is not only to learn a classic movement or a figure. The attractive part of the class will be to study or favourite old timers in order to develop new movements or figures within the Balboa.
4. Neus & Albert - Welcoming the unexpected
Let's see how we embrace the uncertainity while dancing Balswing
Paella
1. Neus & Albert - Lasagna Pure Bal
Let's dig into the layers of Pure Bal
2. Lucía & Javi - Bal Swing with flavor
We will explore rhythm and connection with a Spanish twist (blending dance technique with the culinary art of making paella). Just like each ingredient in paella adds its own essence to the dish, every Balboa step contributes precision and flavor to the dance.
3. Neus & Albert - Cooking with what there is in the fridge
Let's explore how we can adapt to the dance of the other and cook the best dance together (balswing)
4. Lucía & Javi - Pure Bal & Musicality
We will focus on footwork technique and new rhythm variation. Learning new rhythms facilitates the understanding of the music and at the same time aloow us to enjoy other aspects of the dance. Lucía & Javi will teach you the rhythms they use and how to put them into the dance as a couple to enjoy every beat ;)