Swing Dancing

The opening of the Savoy Ballroom on March 26, 1926 was a main part of the birth of Swing. The block long dance floor and double band stand attracted many in sight of a night life. Some of the best dancers came to show off their dance moves. Music at the Savoy Ballroom was swinging jazz which had been stimulated by these crowds.

Dancers took the Lindy Hop and the Jitterbug to contemporary Jazz and Swing. Evolving at the same time, dancers incorporated tap and jazz steps creating the Swing evolution. Many took this form in expressing the music and shared it with dancing partners as well. This was talking movement for dancers.

As the music changed from the 1920's to the 1990's, Swing evolved throughout the U.S. in regional areas. There are many types of swing styles: Savoy Swing, The Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, Whip, East Coast Swing, Country-Western Swing, Cajun Swing, and many more. The Savoy Swing is very fast, jumpy, a casual style. The Lindy Hop is a smoother way of the Savoy Swing. The West Coast Swing emphasizes nimble feet. The Whip consists of swinging of the partner and was popular in Houston, Texas. The East Coast Swing is a six count style of the Lindy Hop. Country Style Swing is a style of the Jitterbug that was danced to country music. The Cajun Swing is a Louisiana Bayou style of the Lindy Hop danced to Cajun music. There are several types that each state and city developed through Swing.

Many found it difficult to learn this dance but were in desperate need. From the mid 1940's, Swing was modified by dance instructors in order to adapt the teaching of less nimble-footed students that paid for these lessons. Soon the difference between the East and West Coast was born.

This dance was banned in the Late 40's from several dance halls due to many injuries. Dancers weren't too careful with their kicks and jumps at these events. Arthur Murray is credited for the birth of West Coast