Best described, Bolero uses:
- Slow, Rumba-like Music
- Mambo and West Coast Swing Type Patterns
- Waltz Styling
The dance is characterized by slow drawn out movements, accentuation of steps that create body lines, and a gentle use of rise and fall. The dancers must exhibit strong balance and muscle control to produce this styling.
Like the Rumba, Bolero music contains a constant tapping or clave rhythm. However, the music is much slower.