Timing DVD Timing CD Timing Training Set
	Timing, rhythm & music interpretation in Salsa	Timing Training Set$40

---

Distinguishing the "1" from the "5"

As we explained before, in salsa each bar of music is made of 4 beats and salsa music phrases cover blocks of 2 bars, which means 8 beats. It thus becomes important to understand when the first bar of the 2 bar sequence starts. In other words how to distinguish the 1 from the 5. Salseros who like to dance 'On 1' or on the 'clave 2' normally are not too concerned about this difference, but dancers on the NY2 can be very picky about this! We give three hints on how to distinguish between the 1 and the 5, of decreasing levels of sophistication.

1) If you have developed your musical skills, you can recognize whether the song is on the 2-3 clave or on the 3-2 clave, and the job is done! In our rhythm CD you can find the difference between 2-3 and 3-2 clave clearly explained.

2) In a slightly simpler approach, you may recognize that most salsa music is based on a 'call' and 'response' structure, which also originates from African traditions. The first bar of music makes the call, and the second one responds. In our timing DVD we show a typical example in African music, and an example in salsa.. The clave itself can be interpreted as a call and response between the 2 and the 3 hits. We also show an example of a simple 2 bar piano phrase. The first bar of music sounds 'unresolved', 'unfinished', as if you have to hold your breath for the second bar which resolves it. if you learn to pay attention to this, you will find it in most popular salsas.

3) Finally, the simplest, but also least accurate method.. most vocal parts start on the first bar.. so pay attention to where the lead singer or the choir starts and in most cases that gives you the first bar.. but be careful, this is a rough approach and it does not always work. music is too creative for such a simple rule to always apply.

Why is all this so important? The magic of dancing 'in' the music Music Timing, Salsa Basic Steps Salsa Instruments Clave Conga Piano Bass Guiro Cowbell (campana) Distinguishing the "1" from the "5" Common timing mistake The 'right' way… being on time Decorations, marking the break and accents, spontaneity..… Decorations inherited from rumba How to improve your timing