1. Make It Swing
Swing dancing is one of the most popular social dances to learn. Fast paced and fun, swing is easy to learn and turns a few combinations of steps into a lively dance that recalls a bygone era. Swing dance is also popular for dance shows and competitions. It might be easy and freewheeling, but knowing how to select music for swing dancing is the key to having the best experience.
2. East Coast to West Coast
There are two different styles of swing dancing, commonly referred to as East Coast and West Coast. East Coast is usually slower and its steps are smaller but repeated more often. West Coast is faster than East coast; its basic step combination includes larger steps that take up more floor space. Though they're both swing, they have subtle differences that make certain songs more compatible with one style than the other. Consider which "coast" of swing you're dancing when selecting your music; choose slower songs with a steady beat if you're dancing East Coast and pick up the rhythm for West Coast.
3. Speed It Up
Along with the style of swing, consider the speed and timing of the swing you'll be dancing when selecting your music. If you're just learning to swing, pick a slower song so you won't feel rushed or get flustered. Find a song with an easily recognizable swing pattern; this helps you follow the steps and keep up. If you're a more experienced swing dancer, have fun and challenge yourself with a faster song or a double-time swing.
4. In the Air
It's important to consider lifts and turns when selecting music for swing dancing. If you want to incorporate specific lifts or turns into your dance, choose a song with a swing rhythm arrangement that lets you do the extra moves and transition smoothly back into the swing steps. This keeps you in time with the song and let you add a little flair to your swing dance too.
5. Choose Songs Together
Select songs for swing dancing with your swing dance partner. Working together to pick music gives you both a chance to offer an opinion about the speed of the music and whether you want to opt for an old standard or something brand new. Choose songs with your partner so that you'll both be equally represented on the dance floor. Keep in mind that your music doesn't have to be in the swing genre. If you and your partner hear a swing beat in another genre, practice to that music to help you expand your horizons.
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