Swing dance

What is Swing dance?

Swing dance is a collection of partner and solo dances that grew with swing jazz music in the United States, especially from the 1920s to the 1940s. It includes energetic styles like Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa, and Shag. Dancers often improvise, with lively footwork, spins, and lifts. The atmosphere is social and welcoming, with people of all ages and backgrounds taking part at dance halls, clubs, and festivals. Music is usually upbeat jazz, blues, or rock and roll, and the dancing can be fast or moderate, depending on the style and song.

Where does Swing dance come from?

Swing dance began in African-American communities, especially in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s and 1930s. It developed alongside swing jazz music, drawing on earlier dances and evolving as new music and social trends appeared. The Lindy Hop, Charleston, and Balboa are among the earliest forms. The term 'swing dance' itself became common only in the second half of the 20th century. As swing music spread, so did the dances, with new styles emerging in different regions of the United States and later in other countries.

How is Swing dance danced?

Swing dances are usually done with a partner, though some forms can be danced solo or in groups. Movements range from close embrace steps, as in Balboa, to open, bouncing, and acrobatic moves in Lindy Hop and Charleston. Dancers use a mix of basic steps, spins, kicks, and improvisation. Some styles, like Balboa, keep the movement subtle and below the knees, while others, like Lindy Hop, include dramatic lifts and breaks. The connection between partners can be close or open, and dancers often switch between these during a song.

The music of Swing dance

Swing dance is set to swing jazz, blues, and later rock and roll. The tempo can be very fast, especially for Balboa and Shag, or moderate for other styles. Bands usually feature brass, piano, drums, and sometimes vocals. The rhythm is lively and syncopated, matching the energetic steps and improvisation of the dance. In Europe, boogie-woogie and rock and roll bands are also common for swing dancing.

Costume and what is carried

There is no strict costume for swing dance, but comfortable clothing that allows free movement is typical. In social and competition settings, dancers might wear vintage-inspired outfits from the 1930s to 1950s, such as dresses, skirts, trousers, and shirts. Shoes with smooth soles are preferred for easy turning and sliding. Some styles, like Balboa, may see dancers in more formal attire, reflecting the original dance halls.

When and where Swing dance is danced

Swing dance is enjoyed at social gatherings, festivals, and competitions. It is taught in classes and passed on at community events, dance halls, and clubs. Some regions have strong local traditions, such as Carolina Shag along the southeastern coast of the United States. Swing is also performed on stage and in shows, and it remains a popular way to meet people and celebrate music and movement.

Styles of Swing dance

Swing dance includes many styles, each with its own steps and feel. Lindy Hop is known for its swingout move and improvisation. Charleston can be danced solo or with a partner, with kicks and swinging arms. Balboa is danced close together, with quick footwork. Shag has several regional forms, like Collegiate and St. Louis Shag. Later styles include West Coast Swing, Jive, Boogie-woogie, and Modern Jive, each adapting swing to new music and tastes.

What Swing dance means

Swing dance is a symbol of social connection, creativity, and joy. It reflects the history of jazz and African-American culture, and has influenced dance scenes worldwide. Swing has seen revivals, especially from the 1980s onwards, with new generations learning and adapting the dances. It is featured in films, festivals, and competitions, and continues to bring people together across backgrounds and ages.

Questions people ask about Swing dance

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle

• Swing (dance) on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos and video on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Swing dance on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo