Near the end of the 50s, when the Cha-Cha-Cha was exhausted, the rhythm of Pachanga arose in Cuba as a blend of son montuno and merengue. It was taken to the US by Cuban immigrants where it grew in popularity during the 1960s. The Pachanga rhythm branched from Charanga music and is characterized specifically by flutes and violins, rather than the more typical brass instruments common to Latin music. It’s a very upbeat rhythm; Pachanga actually meaning “lively party”; and so too is the dance that matches it. It comprises of intricate, fast and syncopated rhythms which the dancers try to match movements to, using the feet and the hips in a twisting motion. Newer variations often include a fair amount of “Fred Astaire style” jumping combinations. It’s always a fun new dance to try with lovely uplifting music which makes you wish you were sipping on a piña colada overlooking the Caribbean Ocean.

We develop the understanding of the Pachanga rhythm and work on a shines combo suitable to each level offered. Beginner level focuses on understanding the Pachanga groove and basic steps whilst the more advanced level is an open jam where we mix our Pachanga with our mambo shines in a very energetic and upbeat class.

We have different levels offered at our “Pachanga workshops” which you can explore in more detail below, deciding what is best for you.