Liscio

Liscio or ballo liscio ("smooth" or "smooth dance" respectively in Italian) is a genre of music originating in the 19th century in the northern Italian region of Romagna under the influence of Viennese ballroom dances including the mazurka, waltz, polka, schottische, march.

Nowadays, this universe is home to many different protagonists: it gives employment to a huge number of musicians, singers, dancers, dance halls, record companies and media (TV, radio, local magazines).

They form part of a rich cultural industry, held together by a powerful territorial and traditional binding force which is typical of Romagna's folklore.

This tradition of Romagna, besides being a varied enterprise, is a fundamental tool for the valorisation of the immaterial cultural heritage of the territory.

[4][5] Several bands continue to play ballo liscio repertoire in California, including the bands Zighi Baci & Mazurka Madness which both play regularly at Caffe Trieste in North Beach,[6][7] Caffe Acustico,[8] Paul & Emily,[9] the Hot Frittatas,[10] the Graventsein Mandolin Ensemble,[11] and Gus Garelick.