Merengue

What Is Merengue?

Merengue is the national dance and music of the Dominican Republic. It is a partner dance with a straightforward two-count step pattern that makes it one of the easiest Latin styles for beginners to learn.

The dance is characterised by a characteristic hip sway, marching step and side-to-side movement. While the basic step is simple, merengue allows for complex turns, footwork and partner interactions as dancers become more experienced.

The upbeat, rhythmic music — featuring accordion, tambora drum and güira — gives merengue its joyful, celebratory character.

Learning Merengue in London

Merengue is a regular feature of Latin social dance nights in London, often taught as an entry point into the broader Latin dance scene alongside salsa and bachata.

Its accessibility makes it popular at beginners' classes and mixed-level social events where dancers of different experience levels can enjoy it together.

Merengue is frequently taught as part of Latin dance courses in London, either as a standalone introduction to partner dancing or within a broader salsa and bachata programme.

Most studios integrate merengue into their social dance events, giving students immediate opportunities to practice what they learn in class.