---
title: 17 The habanera as a 'home base'
description: 
published: true
date: 2026-04-28T07:16:01.792Z
tags: Blues
editor: markdown
dateCreated: 2026-04-28T07:16:01.792Z
---

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## FOCUS 
- This lesson focuses on using the Habanera rhythm as a home base while exploring other musical instruments and rhythms in Latin Blues, encouraging dancers to leave and return to it for variety.
## TIP & TRICKS:
- Think of the Habanera as your basic step or home base during the dance.
- Practice leaving the Habanera rhythm to interact with other instruments like drums or piano.
- Incorporate breaks in the music into your dance movements for excitement.
- Use step touches or walking steps as alternatives to the basic Habanera rhythm.
- Experiment with the slow, quick, quick pattern of the Habanera as a foundation.

##REMEMBER
- The Habanera is not the only rhythm; listen for other instruments to enhance your dance.
- Dancing involves adapting to various musical elements beyond the double bass.
- Use the Habanera as a reference point to return to after exploring other rhythms.
- Avoid doing the basic step continuously; vary your movements with the music.
- Pay attention to melodic instruments and vocals for dynamic expression in dance.
