MASTER BALLROOM DANCE TECHNIQUE

The Cura Method

Most newcomers to ballroom dance struggle because there is so much to learn. And the teaching model, where everything is thrown at you all at once, does not do anything to help mitigate the difficulties. This makes learning dance a seemingly monolithic task, too big a mountain to climb.

But when the dance method is broken down into its component parts, it becomes far easier to focus on mastering one thing at a time. That is what MBDT brings. The CURA Method, a result of many years of development and experimentation, breaks down ballroom dance technique into three areas: 

First, learn how to move by yourself, correctly. You can dance better with your partner if you know your part first. 

Second, learn how to move with different partners. You need to adjust your technique to match your dance partner's physique, stature, and movement. Rarely will you get the ideal partner who matches you in these areas.

And third, when the previous two techniques have been mastered, embark on the road to mastery. Dive into the realm of expression, musicality, and profluent dancing.

 

TECHNIQUE IN THREE PARTS

Master Ballroom Dance Technique Cover

How can this series of books help? 

It matches the three tasks you have to do, in order to improve. This is where the Cura Method of learning ballroom dance really shines.

The first volume, Individual Technique, teaches the newcomer all the foundational concepts of movement. 

The next volume, Partner Technique, discusses the three components of partner technique: how to combine and adjust a couple’s individual frames; how to move the combined frames dynamically, adjusting for accuracy and precision; and last, how to dance harmoniously together.

The last volume, Artistic technique, examines the nature of expression in dance. It applies the concepts previously examined the the first two volumes and shows the dancer how to apply this knowledge to create beautiful movement.

MAGNUM OPUS

A CLASSICAL FOUNDATION

Master Ballroom Dance Technique is the first full compendium of ballroom techniques for students who want to learn ballroom dancing. It incorporates the CURA METHOD of studying ballroom dance.

The three-volume MBDT provides a classical foundation for the serious beginner. Additionally, for those wishing to learn the current trends in modern technique, the book also extrapolates the modern style of dancing from the classical technique. 

The keen dancer will discover how the so-called advanced style seen in many world competitions is really rooted in classical ballroom dance movement. Learn the classical foundation and the sensibility commonly danced at the top levels becomes very clear. This is where Master Ballroom Dance Technique Shines: it discusses everything from how to take a step, how to adjust and move with a partner, and up to how to create artistic expression.

THE THREE VOLUMES

Comprehensive in its scope, the author had to divide the book into three volumes to address three key areas in ballroom dancing: Individual, Partner, and Artistic technique. 

Each volume of MBDT focuses on one area of study. 

Volume One, Individual Technique, examines the technique that is specific to the individual. These are foundational skills that you should know as a competent dance partner.

Volume One is complete and ready for general publication. We have a limited number of Advance Reader Copies (ARCs) available on request. More details in the sections below.

Volume Two, Partner Technique, formally introduces how to implement the CURA METHOD of approaching ballroom dance training. The three general areas it covers are: how to build the Silhouette with your partner, how to move with your partner, and how to dance cohesively and harmoniously together. 

Volume Two is currently in the final stages of manuscript editing and revision. The author expects to release the book late this year. 

Volume Three, Artistic Technique, a discourse on evolving classical technique into competition and artistic levels, is planned for release sometime next year. It is in the manuscript stage at this time.

Ballroom Geekery, Volume One

Nerd Candy of the Highest Order

Ballroom competition picture of woman in a green dress

Volume One is Ballroom Nerd candy of the highest order. This is ballroom geekery in 20 Chapters. Replete with over 400 Pages of technique upon technique upon technique. 100 Illustrations, Diagrams, and Pictures. Beautiful Dance-themed Paintings. Well-illustrated and informative. Descriptive Table of Contents, and a very detailed index to help you find information quickly.

The density of information in this first volume cannot be overstated. If you are a Standard or Smooth dancer—beginner, social dancer, competitor, or professional—this book will quickly become your go-to reference.

Volume One, Individual Technique

Master Ballroom Dance Technique

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced dancer, a student, a competitor, or a professional dancer, you will find that this book will benefit your dancing greatly. If you are serious about dancing in International Standard or American Smooth, this set of books is a must-have.

Physical Characteristics

Weight3 Pounds
Size10-1/4 x 8-1/4 x 1-5/16 Inches (approx.)
Cover ColorOrange
FormatHardcover only. 

Contents

Chapters20
Illustrations and Art100+
Total Pages (Inclusive of Preface, TOC, etc)400+
Index (Detailed)Yes

 

Publication Details/Availability

Advanced Reader Copies (ARC) are available on request and on a limited basis. [Click here for info]
We are working to create an online shopping cart to make ARCs available shortly.
The first edition of Volume One will be released together with Volume Two. The first edition is currently being reviewed by a number of teachers, including a former World Standard Champion. So stay tuned!
We are tentatively scheduling the Release Date later this year in time for the holidays.