(Bachata) Intro tools that carry connection into musicality - Carlos 'Connection Masterclass' by PangPangyo (Nick)

“At a social, when the song starts and everybody goes "woo!" and just dives in — it makes me a little sad.”

CONTEXTOpening by pointing out the mistake people commonly make in a social dance intro

“I don't want to come at her like "I'm coming for you." When you turn toward your partner, a little eye contact is plenty.”

On eye contact and attitude as the leader approaches the follower

“The first thing I do is connect with the body. The arms wrap after that.”

Explaining the order of physical connection in the intro

“I want to stay comfortable. Down here in this low position, super relaxed. I don't want her to feel like she has to be all in from the very first second.”

Explaining why he shifts his weight and keeps a relaxed posture in the intro

“I always try to keep a little contact with her. That way she knows she can keep stepping, or she can just pause for a moment.”

How body contact in the intro signals the options for what comes next

“I want to create a safe space for her. I want her to feel that I'm going to take good care of her.”

On the attitude behind building a psychological connection with your partner in the intro

“I don't want it to feel like "welcome to my show" — I want it to feel like "okay, let's do this together."”

Contrasting two very different attitudes a leader can bring to a partner

“The intro is so important. You can throw in fancy combos after that, but if you get the intro right, she'll remember you.”

Explaining how to connect with your partner once the song starts, stressing the importance of the intro

“I think most followers are open to connecting once they feel safe.”

Closing thought on what you get out of a well-made intro