Looking for swing dance lessons that bring serious energy and fun?? This is your guide to the vibrant world of swing dance, a joyful and dynamic dance form deeply rooted in American jazz history. Whether you’re drawn to the high-flying acrobatics of the Lindy Hop, the smooth versatility of East Coast Swing, the cool connection of West Coast Swing, or the intricate footwork of Balboa, prepare to discover the unique styles that make up this beloved dance. And if you’re in the Princeton, NJ area, get ready to find out how you can join the fun and learn to swing with Arthur Murray Dance Studio!
The history of swing dancing is a vibrant reflection of American culture in the early 20th century. Emerging in the 1920s and 1930s, it was deeply rooted in the African American jazz music scene. Dances like the Charleston and the Lindy Hop, originating in Harlem, New York, captured the energy and improvisation of the era’s music. These early forms of swing dance were characterized by their energetic movements, breakaway steps allowing for individual expression, and a playful partnership between dancers. As swing music gained mainstream popularity, so did the dance, evolving and spreading across the United States and eventually the world.
The evolution of swing dancing continued through the mid-20th century, giving rise to various regional styles and variations. The jitterbug, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, and Balboa are just a few examples of how the fundamental elements of swing were adapted and refined in different communities and to different tempos of swing music. The post-World War II era saw some shifts in popularity, but swing dancing never truly disappeared.
Each variation puts a unique spin on the swing with different elements and tempos, but the heart of the dance remains the same. Most types of swing dancing involve a series of spins, kicks, jumps and hand positions. Unlike ballroom, couples do not dance in hold, but rather they might hold hands, spin each other around and perform dips and tricks.
The Lindy Hop, often considered the quintessential swing dance, emerged from the African American communities of Harlem in the late 1920s and early 1930s. It is a vibrant and athletic dance characterized by its dynamic energy, improvisational nature, and the inclusion of “breakaways,” where partners separate to perform individual steps and styling. Rooted in the Charleston and other jazz dances, the Lindy Hop embraces both grounded, rhythmic movements and soaring aerials or “air steps” as it evolved. Its infectious joy and boundless creativity made it the cornerstone of the swing era and continues to inspire dancers in lindy dance lessons and social dance floors around the globe.
East Coast Swing includes a broad spectrum of swing dance styles and is often called Triple Swing, Jitterbug or American Swing. It emerged out of Lindy as a more standardized and structured form, particularly gaining popularity in the 1940s. Danced to medium-tempo music, the East Coast Swing is perfect to dance to Rock and Roll as well as Rhythm and Blues. This rhythm provides a versatile framework that allows for a wide range of turns, patterns, and variations. Its relatively simple structure makes it an accessible entry point for beginners, while still offering the opportunity for flash and flare in more advanced dancers. The enduring appeal of East Coast Swing lies in its adaptability to music of any generation.
West Coast Swing, in contrast to its East Coast counterpart, developed its own distinct character, evolving primarily on the West Coast of the United States. Danced in a linear slot and using an elastic connection between partners, it is often danced to a wide range of music, including blues, R&B, and contemporary pop. The dance emphasizes smooth, grounded movements, partner connection, and improvisational styling, allowing for intricate variations and musical interpretation. While it shares roots with other swing dances, its unique rhythm and emphasis on a “stretch and release” dynamic creates a sophisticated and versatile dance form enjoyed in dance west coast swing dance classes and social dance scenes worldwide.
Balboa, a swing dance that originated in Southern California during the 1930s and 1940s, is characterized by its close embrace and subtle footwork. Danced primarily to faster swing tempos, Balboa emphasizes intricate rhythms and a strong connection between partners, often within a small amount of floor space. The lead and follow are communicated through nuanced shifts in weight and frame, creating a dance that appears deceptively simple yet offers a rich landscape for musicality and improvisation. While it might not feature the large, flashy movements of other swing styles, the elegance and precision of Balboa make it a captivating and challenging dance form, often explored by those looking to refine their connection and footwork.
No matter which style you learn, you can trust that you’re in good hands with the instructors at Arthur Murray Dance Studio. In fact, Arthur Murray instructors played an integral role in the evolution of East Coast Swing back in the ‘40s. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, cruise or party or just want to explore something new, sign up for dance lessons today.
Ready to have fun with swing dance lessons? Thanks to the unique teaching style at Arthur Murray and the relaxed atmosphere, you can learn the basics, meet new people and become a practiced swing dancer before you know it. The high-energy dance moves are also a great way to express yourself, relieve tension after a long day at work and even help you stay in shape.
Now you can practice this beloved American dance with swing dance classes for adults at Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Princeton, NJ. We offer various options, including couples’ swing dance lessons as well as individual swing dance lessons (no partner needed). Sign up for a swing dance class today and feel the energy! Take advantage of our new student offer of a complimentary private first lesson which can be taken with a partner or individually.
Want to learn more about swing dance? Here’s a short and sweet history of swing.