Origin of Swing
Born in the Roaring Twenties, swing is a blanket term for fun, energetic dances meant to be performed to jazz music. The most well-known swing dances include the Lindy Hop, the Jitterbug, the Charleston, the West Coast Swing and the Boogie Woogie. A dance with African American roots, swing helped tear down racial barriers by bringing people from all ethnic backgrounds together in dance halls throughout the United States.
Today swing is considered an American Rhythm dance. The East Coast Swing and Jive are the standard Ballroom Swing competition dances. The less formal "jazz swing dance" style evolved in dance halls and includes the Lindy Hop, Balboa, Collegiate Shag and Charleston.
How to Swing
An energetic dance, swing is made for roomy dance floors. While there is no official pattern, many swing dancers move in a diamond or star shape while using fundamental footwork such as walking steps, step touches, and triple steps. More experienced swing dancers often include jumps, throws, and aerial moves.
Learn to Swing Dance
Swing can be learned as a partner or single dance. Many contemporary jazz dance routines feature groups of dancers tapping, swinging and bouncing in sync.
Whether you are interested in learning basic swing moves or becoming a master at more advanced maneuvers, Arthur Murray can teach you how to shine on the dance floor at any level.
Ready to dance? Sign-up for a private dance lesson today!
