American Style Rhythm – Fundamentals of Timing is a technique-focused instructional video by Chris Morris that teaches one of the most important skills in dancing—understanding musical timing. Rather than focusing on individual dance figures, this program explains how to hear the beat, recognize musical counts, and develop consistent rhythm that can be applied across all American Rhythm dances.

Designed for dancers of every level, the course helps students improve musical awareness before learning more advanced technique or choreography. Chris Morris demonstrates practical methods for identifying beats and staying on time, making it easier to dance with confidence and accuracy.

Each training section follows a clear teaching format:

• Dancing together with counted timing
• Man’s part demonstrated from multiple angles
• Lady’s part demonstrated from multiple angles
• Dancing together with music
• Detailed explanation of difficult sections
• Final demonstration danced with music

This progressive structure allows dancers to first understand the rhythm, then practice individual roles, and finally apply timing naturally while dancing to music.

Topics Covered

• Understanding musical timing
• Listening for the beat
• Counting music correctly
• Developing rhythm and musical awareness
• Partner timing
• Dancing accurately with music

Suitable For

• Beginning dancers
• American Rhythm students
• Ballroom teachers
• Social dancers
• Competition dancers
• Anyone wishing to improve musical timing

Strong timing is one of the foundations of good dancing. This video provides practical exercises that help dancers hear the music more clearly and develop better rhythm across all American Rhythm dances.