How to Dance Tejano Style
- 1). Listen to the music. Tejano style dance is heavily influenced by Tejano style music. The music started with North Mexican folk artists and incorporated Anglo, African and other influences from the late 1800s on, as the Tejano region grew and diversified with immigration. Much like salsa and country line dancing, which combine to account for most traditional Tejano dance movements, Tejano dance is performed in rhythm with each musical note.
- 2). Follow a good example. "Tejano Night" at your local country and western bar or one of several shows featured in Las Vaegas or Broadway featuring Tejano style music and dance are great ways to establish an image of what you wish to accomplish. You can speed up the learning process by immitating experienced dancers or otherwise finding inspiration from them. Look closely at posture and how individual movements correspond with musical notes.
- 3). Find a partner. If you do not wish to attend regular dance classes, try to find a partner at the same skill level as you with a similar passion to learn Tejano style dance. The two of you can practice together at a mutually ideal pace that will be both fun and educational. A class may be better if you can't find a partner or don't have resources to set up an environment in which to practice.
- 4). Practice makes perfect. As long as you're enjoying it and still trying to learn, the more Tejano style dance you do the better you'll get. Try dancing with new partners as much as possible to force yourself to adjust to subtle and greater differences they present. Look for constructive criticism and spend time on your own to refine movements that don't involve a partner.
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