JiveSwing Class Levels
Which course or class level to book:
We’ve provided a simple glossary below, to assist you when choosing which course/class/workshop level to book for our classes or international events, such as WGC Swing Festival or Savoy Jazz Jam. If you’re still unsure, please email us or ask your teacher who would be more than happy to assist you.
L1 – Absolute Beginners – Beginners:
These are aimed at a beginners level suitable for anyone who has never danced before or experienced dancers who want a refresher after a long break or those looking to brush up on a new role they have never danced in before. The class will go from absolute scratch building up to accommodate everyone in the class. There may be options for improvers in this class too.
L2 – Improvers:
This level will be suitable for those who have already taken a few beginner courses and wish to progress to the next level, increasing technique and repertoire or experienced dancers who want a refresher after a long break. Students will be expected to know basic 8 count, 6 count and Charleston steps, including Swing Out, Lindy Turn, Lindy Circle, Side by Side Charleston, Travelling Charleston, Tuck Turn, Cross Kicks, Hand to Hand Charleston,
L3 – Intermediate:
At this level you already know key basic 8 Count, 6 Count and Lindy Charleston series of moves to dance a whole song. You can do the JiveSwing Stroll or other basic jazz steps and have ideally attended a social dance night or two. Here you’ll start to ground your basics, integrate basic jazz to support your social dancing.
L4 – Intermediate Plus (Intermediate – Int/Advanced):
At this level, you’ll be attending Harlem nights and/or other socials regularly. You be able to dance Jazz routines such as the Shim Sham, JiveSwing Stroll, Tranky etc. You should be able to competently swing out to any song, have a good repertoire of moves be able to integrate a bit of jazz to your repertoire.
L5 – Intermediate Advanced:
You social dance on a regular basis and take regular workshops to improve your skill set, having a good swing dance move repertoire. Your Jazz repertoire may include Trickeration, Tranky Doo, Big Apple, JiveSwing Stroll, Stew etc. You can comfortably add Jazz to your social dancing. At this level classes will focus not only on more complex moves, balance and spinning drills, but a deeper level of lead/follow technique, musicality and a bit historic styling.
L6 – Intermediate Advanced – Advanced:
You can social dance with musicality, a good connection at slow to medium/fast tempos and improvise with jazz, spins and turning movements confidently, surpassing all the requirements above. You’re likely to know many of the key jazz routines/line dances.
L7 – Advanced:
At this level everyone in the class knows who you are and why you are there. You probably travel to dance events around the world, surpassing all the requirements above and comfortable taking a class working on only one move with lots of technical drills, one key concept or historical content to elevate your dancing to a deeper level. You’re not afraid of personal feedback, in fact you value and seek it.
NB: All classes are aimed at having a great fun time.