Friendly Lindy Hop and swing dance classes in Durham and the North East
Lindy Jazz began in 2007 with a simple vision: to create a warm, welcoming swing dance community in the North East where people could learn to dance, enjoy great music, meet new friends and feel completely at ease.
My husband Andy and I wanted to build something that felt friendly from the moment people walked through the door. Not intimidating. Not cliquey. Not rushed. Just clear teaching, joyful music and a room full of people learning together.
Since then, Lindy Jazz has grown from a single dance class in Durham into a thriving swing dance community. With the support of Andy, our teachers and a wonderful group of dancers and supporters, we have created classes, workshops, social dances and special events where adults of all ages and backgrounds can discover the joy of Lindy Hop.
Helping Beginners Feel Confident
At the heart of Lindy Jazz is a love of helping beginners.
Many of our dancers arrive saying, “I’ve never danced before,” or “I have two left feet,” or “I’m not sure I’ll be able to do this.” We understand that starting something new can feel daunting, which is why our classes are designed to be clear, friendly and easy to follow.
You do not need a partner. You do not need previous dance experience. You do not need to be naturally confident.
You just need to be willing to give it a go.
Our teaching focuses on helping you build confidence step by step. We explain things clearly, give you time to practise and help you understand how the dance works, rather than overwhelming you with too many moves at once.
Our Teaching Style
Lindy Hop is full of energy, rhythm and joy, but good teaching makes all the difference.
Our classes are lively and fun, but they are also carefully structured. We focus on good technique, musicality, connection and social dance skills in a way that feels accessible, relaxed and enjoyable.
The aim is not just to teach you steps. The aim is to help you feel comfortable dancing with other people, remembering what you have learnt and enjoying yourself on the social dancefloor.
Whether you are brand new to swing dancing or returning after a break, we want you to feel supported, included and encouraged.
A Swing Dance Community
Lindy Jazz has always been about more than dance steps.
It is about music, friendship, confidence and community. Over the years, our classes and events have brought together people from many different walks of life. Some come for the music. Some come for the movement. Some come because they want to try something new. Many stay because they find friendship and a sense of belonging.
We are proud to have helped build a friendly swing dance scene in Durham and the wider North East, with opportunities to learn, practise, socialise and enjoy the wonderful world of jazz and swing.
Meet Your Teachers
Lindy Jazz is led by Joo-Lee and Andy.
Joo-Lee has been dancing Lindy Hop since 1993 and has been teaching swing dance since 2006. She is also an experienced music teacher, which shapes the way she teaches dance: with clarity, rhythm, patience and a deep understanding of how people learn.
Andy brings warmth, humour and years of social dancing experience to the classes. Together, we aim to make every class welcoming, clear and enjoyable.
We love helping adults discover that they really can dance, even if they never thought of themselves as dancers before.
Come and Dance With Us
If you are looking for beginner swing dance classes in Durham or friendly Lindy Hop classes in the North East, we would love to welcome you.
Whether you want to learn a new skill, meet people, enjoy swing music, build confidence or simply have more fun in your week, Lindy Jazz is a friendly place to begin.
Come and join us on the dancefloor.