Turn, turn, turn…that pretty much describes the Viennese Waltz. Oh, wait, there’s something else. Turn, turn, turn, fast, fast, fast! In other words, it’s a quick little dance.

Differences between American Style and International Style Viennese Waltz.

Dance Position

The first thing you’ll notice is that the American Viennese Waltz incorporates every dance position in the book. That means the couple uses open movements, where they may briefly separate from close body contact while dancing.

The International Style Viennese Waltz maintains body contact throughout the dance. Therefore, open movements are a no-no.

Tempo

Tempo is the speed of the music, measured in beats per minute (BPM). International VW is danced at a brisk tempo of 168-174 BPM.

The American VW is danced a bit slower at 159-162 BPM. This accommodates the open actions so common in this style.

Thanks to mddancesport.com for this list of dance tempos for American and International Style dances. Click and scroll down to see this handy chart.

The challenge of creating expression while rotating.

The International VW consists of just a few patterns. Even so, you’ll find it’s absolutely mesmerizing to watch. For one thing, the smoothness of the dance seems impossible given how fast the couple moves. It’s both serene and elegant.

On the other hand, American VW seems playful and almost flirty. Moving in and out of closed dance position creates a game-like feel, almost like hide-and-seek.

By the way, it’s become one of the most popular styles for the wedding first dance.

What does it look like?

Here are competing professionals demonstrating American Viennese Waltz at the 2019 Millennium Dancesport competition in Florida. For International Viennese Waltz, we see competitors at the 2019 WDSF World Standard Championship in Vilnius, LTU.

Before rushing to the studio to tell your teacher you want to learn this amazing dance, hold your horses. For safety, I recommend you start with the slow Waltz. You know, better safe than sorry.

For more Waltz love, read the Dance Safari post, “Types of Waltz in Ballroom Dancing“.