International Latin
Samba (Ballroom)
Ballroom Samba is one of the five International Latin dances — a fast, energetic style derived from Brazilian carnival samba and adapted for competitive partner dancing.
Ballroom Samba is one of the five International Latin dances — a fast, energetic style derived from Brazilian carnival samba and adapted for competitive partner dancing.
Ballroom Samba is the International Latin competitive version of Brazilian samba, characterised by a rapid bouncing action, hip movement and a characteristic "samba bounce" in 2/4 time. While inspired by Brazilian carnival culture, it has been formalised into a structured competitive style with specific technique requirements.
The International Samba is distinct from Brazilian Samba Brasileiro (carnival style) and Samba de Gafieira, each of which has its own movement vocabulary and cultural context.
Ballroom Samba is taught at all ballroom studios in London as part of the International Latin curriculum. It is one of the physically demanding Latin dances, requiring significant hip mobility and rhythmic precision.
Competitive dancers in London train in ballroom samba alongside the other four Latin dances as part of their examination and competition preparation.
Ballroom samba classes in London are part of standard Latin ballroom programmes. Beginners learn the basic bounce, the characteristic timing and simple figures before building to the full range of competitive content.
The energetic, joyful nature of samba makes it one of the most popular Latin dances at all levels.
The following dance studios and academies in London offer Samba (Ballroom) classes.
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