What style of salsa is taught in Edinburgh?

Most weekly salsa classes in Edinburgh teach salsa on1 (LA-style, linear), which is a very common partner style worldwide. You'll also find a strong Cuban salsa (casino) scene taught separately, and the occasional salsa on2 (New York) class. Each class card on bailemo shows the style so you can pick what suits you. Whether you choose on1, on2 or Cuban, you will have an amazing time learning.

I've never danced before. Can I start salsa from scratch?

Yes and it's a fantastic dance to start with. It's quick to grasp, fun and the music is wonderful. Most Edinburgh schools run dedicated beginner salsa courses several times a year, plus weekly drop-in beginner classes you can try without committing. You don't need any experience, a partner or event specialist clothing - just a willingness to have a great time and learn something.

How long does it take to feel comfortable social dancing salsa?

Most people feel ready to try a social after 6 – 10 weeks of regular beginner classes. Going to socials early (even just to watch and try a few dances) hugely speeds up your progress. Plus Edinburgh has so many beginner friendly events and socials on a weekly basis, which we at bailemo mark for you on our event details so that you can be sure to get off on the right foot, so to speak...

What should I wear to a salsa class?

Anything you feel comfortable moving around in. Most people start in jeans and t-shirt or indeed comfortable sport style clothing. It's entirely up to you and there are no hard and fast rules. Wear comfortable shoes too and if they are something that you can turn in without too much friction, that's perfect. Trainers are a great starting point in salsa and you can always upgrade to dance shoes later.

Are Cuban salsa and 'linear' salsa the same thing?

They share roots but feel quite different. Linear salsa (on1 or on2) is danced in a slot, or on a line, with sharper turns and a strong lead/follow frame. Cuban salsa (casino) is danced in a circle, with a more grounded, playful, rueda-friendly feel. Most Edinburgh classes are clearly labelled as one or the other, although many teachers and people can dance more than one style.

Salsa Classes Edinburgh

Sunday

12 Jul

2 classes start

Alma Latina Dance Project

Intermediate/Advanced Salsa

Drop in

7pm–8pmWash Bar, EH1 2LP£7–£12

intermediateSalsa

Alma Latina Dance Project

Salsa Fundamentals

Drop in

8pm–9pmWash Bar, EH1 2LP£7–£12

beginnerSalsa

Monday

13 Jul

2 classes start

Bailarte

Beginners Course (Stage 1)

Drop in

6.30pm–8pmThe Crags Centre, EH8 9RYBlock: £50Drop in: £17

beginnerSalsaBachata

Karen Gallagher

Salsa Movement & Styling

Drop in

7pm–8pmThe Space, Dalry Road EH11 2EBBlock: £26Drop in: £8

improverSalsa

Tuesday

14 Jul

1 class starts

Bailarte

Intermediate Course (Stage 3)

Drop in

7pm–8.30pmThe Crags Centre, EH8 9RYBlock: £60Drop in: £17

intermediateSalsaBachata

Thursday

16 Jul

2 classes start

Bailarte

Beginners Course (Stage 1)

Drop in

7pm–8.30pmThe Crags Centre, EH8 9RYBlock: £50Drop in: £17

beginnerBachataSalsa

Bailarte

Improvers Course (Stage 2)

Drop in

8.30pm–10pmThe Crags Centre, EH8 9RYBlock: £60Drop in: £17

improverSalsaBachata