Classes

What to Expect

Welcome to . This page outlines what to expect at one of our classes. We hope it's of help to you and we hope you enjoy the evening!

Important

The main emphasis of our classes is to have fun. It doesn't matter if you make mistakes or fail to master the footwork first time… or second… or third! Everybody at Mad About Swing is in the process of experimenting with new steps and developing their dancing. Enjoy the journey… that's what it's all about!

Keeping Safe

Your safety is of upmost importance. Please do not attend our classes or events if you are unwell. Hand gels are provided and please use these and wash your hands thoroughly and frequently throughout the evening.

The culture at Mad About Swing has been that attendees typically swap partners throughout the class. This is not only more fun and sociable but also facilitates the learning process. However, it is uncertain how the pandemic will affect this dynamic and, as a result, our classes may function in a different manner. You are, as always, welcome to attend as a fixed couple.

Social Dancing/Practice Time

We have designated slots before and after our classes for social dancing. This is a chance to practise the moves you've just learnt and to do your thing on the dance floor (this is, after all, why you're learning to dance, right?) During this practice session please ask the teachers any questions you might have regarding the class. Lindy Hop is a social dance so go and grab a partner and get out on to the floor!

Clothing

We recommend that you wear comfortable casual clothing and flat shoes. High-heeled shoes are not a practical choice.

Drinks

Tap water is provided (bring your own water bottle!). You may also bring your own drinks if you would prefer, including alcohol.

Class Levels and Progression

Please view our classes page for an explanation of each level. The beginner classes have been designed to arm students with the foundations that a Lindy Hopper needs to dance simple figures and step out on the social dance floor. Lead and follow are essential elements; learning the figures as a choreographed routine is not the end goal. It's not just about learning the steps: leaders need to be able to communicate their intentions clearly to their partners whilst followers need to be able to respond effectively and move efficiently.

In the fundamentals class, you’ll hone the intricacies of triple steps, learn Lindy Charleston footwork and dance these patterns in well-known figures with a partner. For those that seek it, there is an infinite world of Lindy Hop figures, variations and techniques to glean but they are unobtainable without a solid understanding and command of the basics. There’s no need to rush and you shouldn’t advance to the next level until you are ready. How long will this take? Good question. That really depends on a number of variables. Practice is vital. You needn't practise outside of our Tuesday sessions but those who do, invariably expedite their progress. Some pick up steps much quicker because they already move adeptly (a footballer equipped with deft footwork, for instance, will have a head start on someone who hasn't participated in agility-based exercise since the playground at school). If you're keen to progress, try to attend classes regularly, definitely pluck up the courage to dance (not just watch) during the social dancing aspect after each class (there's lots to be learnt there), listen to what the instructors are trying to communicate and ask questions to clarify your understanding. Lastly, learning to dance isn't a race; there's no finishing line as no matter how good you get, there's always more to learn if you want to. Enjoy the journey and have fun; that's what it's all about.

We hope you have a great evening at .