How to Perform the Brazilian Samba

The samba is an energetic, rhythmical dance that is performed to samba music. Brazilian locals have danced the samba since its inception in the late 19th century. There are many versions of the samba, but the steps are typically done in triple time, which means that three steps are taken in the two beats offered in the music's 2/4 time. This is a popular dance for couples, but it is also performed alone on the streets of Rio de Janeiro during the world-famous Carnavale. Learn the steps to perform the samba at your next Carnavale celebration.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Samba music
• Samba costume

Take the Lead Role

1. Take a step forward with your left foot. This is on the count of "one."

2. Close the gap by bringing your right foot to your left foot. This will be on the upbeat signified by "and."

3. Keep your left foot in place and transfer your weight to it. This is on the count of "two."

4. Take a step back with your right foot. This is again on the count of "one."

5. Bring your left foot to your right foot. This is on the upbeat of "and."

6. Keep your right foot in place and transfer your weight to it. This finishes out the steps on the count of "two."

Take the Follower's Role

7. Take a step back with your right foot. This occurs on the count of "one."

8. Bring your left foot to your right foot. This happens on the upbeat of "and."

9. Keep your right foot in place and transfer your weight to it for the count of "two."

10. Take a step forward with your left foot. This occurs again on the count of "one."

11. Close the gap by bringing your right foot to your left foot. This occurs on the upbeat of "and."

12. Keep your left foot in place and transfer your weight to it for the final count of "two."

Tips & Warnings

• Samba music is in 2/4 time, which means there are two counts per bar of four beats of music. Each count is two beats long. It is important to learn the proper count in order to maintain an accurate tempo when dancing. Say the count in your head and your feet will follow. Think "one and two, one and two."
• Visit The Big Bands Database for a diagram of the samba steps, music to practice with and a link to a video of a samba performance (see Resources below).
• Dress according to traditional samba attire when you perform the dance. Samba costumes are known to be bright, colorful and extravagant. View the Samba Collection for images of costumes and information on renting or purchasing performance attire (see Resources below).

Resources

• Bid Bands Database for a diagram of samba steps, practice songs and a video of a Brazilian samba performance.
• Samba Collection for costume photos and information on obtaining samba attire for use when you perform.