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West Coast Swing - Weekly Group Lessons at New Spire Arts

from $17.50

West Coast Swing is the contemporary iteration of swing dancing. Movements in WCS are smooth and moderate tempo, with an emphasis on lyrical musicality. A variety of music can be used including top 40 / pop, hip-hop, r&b, soul/blues and country.

The area around Washington DC is home to world class WCS dance classes, socials, and events. The goal of this class series is to get you prepared to join the larger community. We anticipate that after 3-weeks of practice beginners will be ready to move up to the “Next Level” and after 6-weeks of practice you will be ready to drive to a social dance for the beginner lesson plus 30-60 minutes of real social dancing.

Tuesdays 7pm - Next Level / Returning Dancers

For dancers with exposure to WCS basics. Amanda and Ben will teach one new move per week, placed in a sequence of 4-6 moves you are already familiar with. Any remaining class time will be used for guided social practice and one-on-one feedback. Dancers attending the 7pm class are welcome to stay for the 8pm class for free.

8pm - New Dancers / Beginner Level

We cover the basic 6-count sequences; side passes, pushes, and send-out/starter steps. Inside and outside turns for follows will be introduced for most sequences. Once you complete 3 weeks of practice at this beginner level, you will probably be ready for the Next Level class. Amanda and Ben will be available to discuss your progress if you have questions.

Payment Options:

  • Recommended!!! 3-week Sessions for $45 per dancer

    • Session 1 (Jul 28, Aug 4, Aug 11)

    • Session 2 (Aug 18, Aug 25, Sep1)

    • Session 3 (Oct 13, Oct 20, Oct 27)

  • Drop-In: Join us any week for $17.50 per dancer, Amanda can accept payment (credit, Venmo, cash) at the door. Bring a friend to get the normal $15 per class rate.

  • VIP PACKAGE. Planning to come to most classes? Only $100 if you pay in advance. When you sign up, select your starting level, you will be able to “move up” during the 9-weeks when you’re ready.

Session:
Time/Level:

West Coast Swing is the contemporary iteration of swing dancing. Movements in WCS are smooth and moderate tempo, with an emphasis on lyrical musicality. A variety of music can be used including top 40 / pop, hip-hop, r&b, soul/blues and country.

The area around Washington DC is home to world class WCS dance classes, socials, and events. The goal of this class series is to get you prepared to join the larger community. We anticipate that after 3-weeks of practice beginners will be ready to move up to the “Next Level” and after 6-weeks of practice you will be ready to drive to a social dance for the beginner lesson plus 30-60 minutes of real social dancing.

Tuesdays 7pm - Next Level / Returning Dancers

For dancers with exposure to WCS basics. Amanda and Ben will teach one new move per week, placed in a sequence of 4-6 moves you are already familiar with. Any remaining class time will be used for guided social practice and one-on-one feedback. Dancers attending the 7pm class are welcome to stay for the 8pm class for free.

8pm - New Dancers / Beginner Level

We cover the basic 6-count sequences; side passes, pushes, and send-out/starter steps. Inside and outside turns for follows will be introduced for most sequences. Once you complete 3 weeks of practice at this beginner level, you will probably be ready for the Next Level class. Amanda and Ben will be available to discuss your progress if you have questions.

Payment Options:

  • Recommended!!! 3-week Sessions for $45 per dancer

    • Session 1 (Jul 28, Aug 4, Aug 11)

    • Session 2 (Aug 18, Aug 25, Sep1)

    • Session 3 (Oct 13, Oct 20, Oct 27)

  • Drop-In: Join us any week for $17.50 per dancer, Amanda can accept payment (credit, Venmo, cash) at the door. Bring a friend to get the normal $15 per class rate.

  • VIP PACKAGE. Planning to come to most classes? Only $100 if you pay in advance. When you sign up, select your starting level, you will be able to “move up” during the 9-weeks when you’re ready.

Current Location:

Classes are hosted at New Spire Ars in downtown Frederick

Learn more about New Spire Arts

What to Expect

Classes are suitable for all experience levels but aimed at dancers who are relatively new to partnered swing and/or blues dancing. Students with busy schedules or more experience may want to consider a private practice session for more personal attention.

Every weekly class includes:

  • warm-up & stretching

  • solo exercises to improve balance, cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and musicality while practicing basic footwork.

  • partnered exercises to improve lead/follow connection and communication.

  • instruction and practice in common fundamental moves and patterns from lindy hop, six-count swing, west coast swing, Charleston and/or social blues dancing

  • discussion on social dance psychology, etiquette, and safety - plus learn music and dance history!

Dance Roles

In traditional social dance, men lead, and women follow. Fortunately, in contemporary Swing & Blues Dance there are no gender restrictions on dance roles. Dancers are invited to select whichever role they prefer, regardless of gender expression. See the brief descriptions below to help you decide which position is right for you:

  • Leaders are responsible for initiating momentum and managing floor craft

  • Followers are responsible for executing lead movements and inspiring musicality

  • Switch refers to experienced dancers who intend to practice both roles. Dancers who switch should contact Amanda for private class options that can address the unique challenges of this role.

  • Rotating partners is the best way to learn but dancers will NOT be forced to practice with strangers.

Staying Healthy:

  • Proof of vaccination is not currently required.

  • Dancers are welcome to wear masks, but they are not currently required.

  • Please bring a face mask with you. If someone else is wearing a mask, assume that you need to wear yours when talking and dancing with them.