The History Behind the Quickstep
Quickstep originated in the 1920s in the United States, evolving from a fusion of dance styles like foxtrot, Charleston, and swing. As jazz music gained popularity, dancers sought a style that matched its faster tempo and lively character. The Quickstep soon made its way into the ballroom scene in England, where it was standardized and developed into the high-energy, elegant dance we know today. Now a staple of the International Standard ballroom category, Quickstep is admired for its speed, precision, and joyful style.
Quickstep Music
Quickstep music is upbeat and lively, typically set in 4/4 time with a tempo ranging from 48 to 52 measures per minute. It features swing-style rhythms, syncopation, and a bright, energetic feel. The music often includes big band, jazz, or swing orchestration, making it perfect for the fast, buoyant movements that define the dance.
Characteristics of Quickstep
Quickstep is one of the fastest and most dynamic ballroom dances, known for its light, bouncing movements and joyful presentation. Dancers glide and hop across the floor with long strides, quick footwork, and graceful rise and fall. The dance incorporates syncopated steps, hops, runs, and turns, all performed with elegance and control. Despite its speed, Quickstep emphasizes fluidity, frame, and posture, making it both challenging and exhilarating.
Teaching Elements & Basics of Quickstep
- Basic timing: slow–quick–quick rhythm with variations (e.g., slow–slow–quick–quick)
- Emphasis on posture, strong frame, and partner connection
- Light, fast footwork with rise and fall similar to Waltz
- Learning foundational figures like Quarter Turn, Progressive Chassé, and Lock Step
- Introduction to musical phrasing and movement across the floor
- Coordination of body flight and bounce for natural momentum
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Quickstep songs and artists include:
- Sing, Sing, Sing – Benny Goodman
- It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing) – Duke Ellington
- Cheek to Cheek – Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong
- Putting on the Ritz – Fred Astaire
