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The Tumbra

(c. 1955)



Introduction

The Tumbra is a mid-20th century couple dance, invented by Fanny Pechetti and described by Morrie Morrison in 1955.

Like the earlier Moochi, it is an adaptation of Foxtrot to Waltz time.

In this case, SSQQ figures of Foxtrot are danced on the 1, 3, 5, and 6 of the six counts of a waltz.


The Dance

Anything from Magic Step (SSQQ) Foxtrot can be adapted into the Tumbra.

Here are some possibilities:

The Music

I've yet to find a copy of the original music, which was said to have been adapted from a Sudanese tune, but in the meantime, it can be danced to moderate waltz music. For example, try:




Sources


© 2018 Nick Enge


If you or your community is interested in learning the Tumbra, .


For more dance descriptions, see our three books on dancing:
The Book of Mixers: 100 Easy-Teach Dances for Getting Acquainted (2022) by Richard Powers and Nick & Melissa Enge,
Cross-Step Waltz: A Dancer's Guide (2019) by Richard Powers and Nick & Melissa Enge, and
Waltzing: A Manual for Dancing and Living (2013) by Richard Powers and Nick Enge.

For full-length teaching videos, visit: University of Dance.

For help crafting a life you love, visit: Project Quartz.


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