By Alina Litvak
January 8, 2026
4 min read

Not sure which style? Every dance class in Montreal explained

Not sure which dance style to try? Here's an honest breakdown of every major style offered in Montreal's dancing classes.

Quick answer

Which dance style should I try? For social dancing, start with salsa or bachata. For elegance and weddings, try waltz or foxtrot. For a workout, try samba or jive. For self-expression, try contemporary or jazz. Still torn? Pick the music you'd love to hear every week, because that's what keeps beginners coming back.

Montreal has plenty of dancing classes to choose from. That variety can be paralysing when you're new. Salsa, bachata, waltz, tango, cha-cha, hip-hop, contemporary, where do you even begin? Each style has its own music, culture, and personality, and what appeals to one person might bore another. Our guide to dance classes in Montreal covers schedules and levels.

Rather than ranking them, I'll describe what each style actually feels like, so you can match a dance to your personality and goals. If you want more help, try our guide to choosing your first dance style, or read how Latin and ballroom dancing compare.

Latin dances

Latin dances dominate Montreal's social dance scene. They're generally the most popular, the most social, and the easiest to find practice opportunities for.

Salsa is energetic, social, and rhythmically infectious. It's danced to fast, percussive music with Caribbean roots. The vibe is joyful and communal, salsa socials are a friendly place to try what you learn. Best for: people who want a social hobby, enjoy upbeat music, and like meeting new people.

Bachata is slower, more sensual, and deeply romantic. The music is guitar-driven Dominican pop with emotional melodies. It's the easiest partner dance to learn, it's a gentle place to start. Best for: romantics, people who prefer slower music, and couples looking for something intimate.

Cha-cha is playful and flirtatious. The syncopated rhythm (1-2-3-cha-cha) is catchy and fun. It's a great foundational dance because the technique transfers to many other Latin styles. Best for: people who like pop music, enjoy precision, and want a versatile foundation.

Rumba is often called the "dance of love." It's the slowest of the Latin dances, with expressive hip movement and intense partner connection. Best for: people who value emotional expression, aren't in a rush, and enjoy telling a story through movement.

Samba is pure Brazilian carnival energy. The bouncing action and fast tempo make it one of the most physically demanding dances. Best for: people who want a serious workout, love Brazilian music, and enjoy high-energy movement.

Ballroom dances

Ballroom dances tend to be more formal, more structured, and more technically demanding than Latin dances. They're particularly popular among couples preparing for events.

Waltz is timeless elegance. The slow, sweeping movements and rise-and-fall action make you feel like you're floating. It's a classic first dance for weddings. Best for: couples, romantics, and anyone who loves classical music.

Tango is dramatic and intense. Every movement is sharp, deliberate, and emotionally charged. Argentine tango emphasises improvisation and deep connection; ballroom tango is more choreographed and theatrical. Best for: people who like intensity, dramatic music, and controlled movement.

Foxtrot is smooth and sophisticated. Think Frank Sinatra, vintage jazz clubs, effortless gliding. It's technically rewarding and looks incredible when done well. Best for: people who appreciate classic style and smooth, continuous movement.

Street and contemporary styles

Hip-hop is expressive, athletic, and deeply connected to urban music culture. Best for: people who love current music, want creative freedom, and enjoy solo expression.

Contemporary blends ballet technique with emotional storytelling. It's more expressive and less rigid than classical ballet. Best for: artistic people who want to explore emotion through movement.

How to choose your first style

Ask yourself these questions:

Do you want to dance with a partner or solo? Partner: salsa, bachata, waltz, tango. Solo: hip-hop, contemporary.
Do you want a social scene? Salsa and bachata have the most active social scenes in Montreal, with events most nights.
Is there a specific event? Wedding: waltz or foxtrot. Latin party: salsa. Competition: any Latin or ballroom style.
What music moves you? Listen to a few songs from each genre. The dance you're drawn to will usually match the music that gives you chills.

Best Latin styles to learn first

For a first Latin dance, start with bachata or salsa. Both are partner dances with active social scenes in Montreal, so there is always somewhere to use what you learn. Read why bachata is the easiest first dance or follow the salsa beginner's guide. Prefer a slower, more romantic start? Rumba is the slowest of the Latin dances.

Explore our dancing classes in Montreal and find the style that speaks to you. Classes available in English, French, and Russian.