Argentine Folklore: Zamba Technique and Creative Choreography

Zamba is one of Argentina’s most expressive folk dances.

Starting out in the north of Argentina, it is characterised by clear rhythmic patterns, circular movements, and the use of a ‘pañuelo’ (handkerchief) as a form of communication with other dancers.

In this workshop, you will start with learning the basic stepping rhythms and essence of the zamba structure when dancing with a partner. The focus of the session will then shift to learning a choreographed routine that will allow you to dance your heart out with the beautiful music and truly feel the spirit of zamba.

No partner is required.

Clothing – anything you feel comfortable moving in

Footwear – bare feet, socks, or flat shoes

Take a look at Maeve dancing the Zamba here.

About the tutor

Maeve McGreevy (co-founder & co-director, The Tango Academy of Ireland) is a professional dancer who specialises in Argentine tango, Argentine folklore and contemporary techniques. She holds a first-class BA (hons) in contemporary dance from London Contemporary Dance School and has developed a name for herself as a tango and folklore teacher and performer both locally and internationally.

She has trained and worked in England, Scotland, Italy, Poland, USA, Argentina and Ireland alongside partners including Tomás Corbalán, Slava Ivanov, Emilio Cornejo and Mariano Laplume. She brings aspects of all of these partnerships to her dance and classes.

As a teacher, Maeve focuses on detailed technique, sensitive musicality and clear communication within the couple, always with the aim of allowing dancers to explore their creativity and enjoy their bodies to their full potential.