Burns Latin Tek Rumba by Donnie Burns

A Technical Study of International Latin Rumba

Written by Donnie Burns MBE, 14-time World Professional Latin Champion, and Heidi Burns, Burns Latin Tek – Rumba provides a structured examination of the movement principles, musical interpretation, and syllabus figures that define modern International Latin Rumba.

The book combines technical theory, movement mechanics, body coordination, partner communication, and figure analysis to help dancers develop greater control, balance, timing, and movement quality.

Rather than simply presenting figure descriptions, Burns Latin Tek explains how movement is generated and how technical principles influence the execution of Rumba at both syllabus and competitive levels.

Contents of the Book

Musical Theory & Rumba Rhythm

The opening chapters introduce the musical structure of Rumba and explain timing concepts that influence movement quality, rhythm interpretation, and body action.

Fundamental Rumba Actions

Core syllabus figures include:

• Close Hold Forward Basic Movement
• Close Hold Backward Basic Movement
• El Abanico
• Hockey Stick
• Cuban Rocks
• Check from Open CPP
• Check from Open Position

Turns & Open Work

Detailed analysis covers:

• Spot Turn to Left
• Spot Turn to Right
• Underarm Turn to Left
• Underarm Turn to Right
• Hand to Hand

Hip Twist Family

The book explores several important Hip Twist variations:

• Close Hold Hip Twist
• Open Hold Hip Twist
• Syncopated Open Hold Hip Twist
• Opening Outs

Alemana & Top Actions

Major syllabus figures include:

• Alemana
• Alemana from Open Position
• Alemana Checked to Open CPP
• Runaway Alemana
• Natural Top (La Vuelta Derecha)
• Reverse Top (La Vuelta Izquierda)

Spiral & Advanced Figures

Additional chapters include:

• Curl
• Spiral
• Spiral Turned to Fan Position
• Spiral Turned to Open CPP
• Fallaway
• Rope Spinning
• Sliding Doors
• Three Alemanas

Advanced Rumba Movement

The final sections cover:

• Advanced Opening Out Movement
• Continuous Hip Twist
• Continuous Circular Hip Twist
• Switch-Back

The book also includes technical references, movement charts, and analytical breakdowns designed to help dancers understand how figures function mechanically within modern Rumba technique.

Burns Latin Tek Methodology

Throughout the ebook, Donnie and Heidi Burns explain the principles behind effective Rumba movement, including:

• Timing and beat value interpretation
• Weight transfer mechanics
• Cuban motion
• Rotation and body organization
• Balance and coordination
• Partner connection
• Lead and follow concepts
• Movement efficiency

Technical charts and figure analyses provide a detailed framework for studying both individual actions and partnership dynamics.

Who Should Study This Book?

This ebook is suitable for:

• Latin dance teachers
• Competitive dancers
• Coaches
• Medal test candidates
• Professional examination candidates
• Serious students of International Latin dancing

Whether preparing for examinations, coaching competitive couples, or improving technical understanding, readers gain a structured reference for studying Rumba.

Why Study Burns Latin Tek – Rumba?

The Burns Latin Tek series focuses on understanding movement principles rather than simply memorizing figures. By studying the mechanics behind timing, body action, balance, and partnership coordination, dancers can build stronger technical foundations and improve movement consistency.

The book can be used as:

• A technical reference
• A teaching resource
• A competition study guide
• An examination preparation tool
• A supplementary syllabus workbook