Lindy Jazz

Adapting in Social Dance: The Best Way to Support Beginners in Class

March 2, 2025 by Joo-Lee

If you’ve been dancing for a while, you’ve probably been in a class where a new beginner is struggling with the steps. Your instinct might be to step in and offer some guidance—to explain the move differently, correct their footwork, or give them extra tips. After all, you just want to help, right?

I completely understand your good intentions, but here’s something to consider: when an experienced dancer starts ‘teaching’ a beginner in class, it can actually have the opposite effect. Instead of feeling supported, the beginner often feels overwhelmed, confused, or even discouraged. They might worry they’re doing everything wrong, feel pressured to get it ‘right’ immediately, or even dread coming back.

Focus on Your Own Learning Instead

Instead of focusing on the new person’s learning, shift your focus to your own. How well can you adapt to your new partner? Social dancing isn’t about perfecting steps or performing—it’s about adapting. Adapting to different partners, different energy levels, different interpretations of the music.

Each time you dance with someone new, challenge yourself to adjust your movement to connect with them. Can you match their timing? Can you sense their comfort level and create a dance that feels good for both of you? Instead of trying to ‘fix’ their dancing, see how well you can adapt to the moment.

Why ‘Helping’ Can Be Counterproductive

When you correct or explain things in your own way, you’re introducing a different perspective than what the teacher is presenting. This can contradict the lesson, disrupt the flow of the class, and leave the beginner unsure of who to listen to. It also takes them out of the natural learning process—making mistakes, experimenting, and gradually improving at their own pace.

The Best Support You Can Give

Instead of instructing, correcting, or ‘helping’ during class, try these instead:

✅ Smile warmly and encouragingly – Let them know it’s okay to stumble. Every dancer has been there!

✅ Allow mistakes to happen – It’s all part of the learning process. Trust that they will improve with time, just like you did.

✅ Be a friendly presence – If you want to support a beginner, the best time to do so is before or after class. A simple chat, a kind word, or a shared laugh about the learning journey can make them feel truly welcome.

Dancing is All About Adapting

At the heart of social dancing is the ability to adapt—not just to different music, but to different partners and even to your own energy levels, which may change from week to week. The best dancers aren’t the ones who execute perfect moves; they’re the ones who can adjust, connect, and make every dance enjoyable for themselves and their partner.

So next time you dance with a beginner, resist the urge to teach—simply enjoy the dance, offer a warm smile, and let them discover their own way. Your patience, encouragement, and ability to adapt will do far more to support their learning than any technical tip ever could. 💛

Category Beginners, Courses & Classes, Dance, Improvers, Lindy Hop | Tags: | No Comments
Train Your Feet, Train Your Mind – Dance for Joy!

February 19, 2025 by Joo-Lee

Dancing isn’t just about learning steps—it’s about letting go and enjoying the moment. But sometimes, our minds get in the way. We compare ourselves to others, worry about making mistakes, or feel embarrassed when things don’t go as planned.

Here’s the truth: embarrassment is self-inflicted. Your mind creates fear where there is no real danger. No one is judging you, and no one remembers if you fumble a step. But if you let that fear take over, you’ll miss out on the joy of dancing.

Your mind loves problem-solving. So, instead of letting it convince you that you are the problem, give it something useful to focus on—like a dance move, the rhythm, or simply having fun. Or better yet, shift the focus away from yourself entirely. Look around—see someone sitting out who looks like they’d love to dance? Take a moment to invite them onto the dance floor. Getting past your own fears to help someone else can be just the thing to remind you that dancing is about connection, not perfection.

Often, our fears come from linking dancing with performing. But at Lindy Jazz, we are not performing—we are social dancing. There is no audience, no pressure to impress, just a shared love for swing music and good company. That’s what we mean when we say we dance for fun.

Let’s put this into practice on 12 April at our Swing Dance Night with the Bright Street Big Band and DJ Andy. Step onto the dance floor, focus on the music, and remind yourself—there’s nothing to fear, only fun to be had!

Category Courses & Classes, Dance, Lindy Hop | Tags: | No Comments
Why Lindy Jazz Courses Are Different

February 18, 2025 by Joo-Lee

Many dance classes let you drop in and out, but that often means forgetting what you’ve learned or picking up bad habits. At Lindy Jazz, we do things differently! Our structured courses give you the support, consistency, and guidance you need to build confidence and dance with ease.

Here’s What You Get:

✅ Swing Dance Fundamentals (19:30 – 20:15) – Perfect for all levels, covering essential moves and technique.
✅ Extra Class (20:15 – 21:00) – For experienced dancers who want to refine their skills and add flair.
✅ Online lesson videos – Recap moves anytime, so you never feel lost.
✅ Private Whatsapp group – Ask questions, share progress, and stay connected.
✅ Optional video feedback – Get personalised tips to improve your dancing.

Lindy Jazz is More Than Just an Evening Class!

🙌 Everything is explained step by step—no stress, just fun.
🙌 Join on your own, with a partner, or with friends—everyone is welcome!
🙌 If you miss a class, catch up easily with our online videos.

Ready to dance? Secure your spot now! Book Here

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Seize the Dance Floor: A Holiday Lesson in Swing Dancing

January 5, 2025 by Joo-Lee

Imagine this: you’re on holiday, and every evening, you see a couple swing dancing to a live jazz band. Their energy and connection are captivating. What would you do?

Would you head to the bar for a bit of courage before asking them to dance? Watch in admiration but decide not to interrupt because they’re a couple? Or maybe, after a few nights, you’d finally muster the bravery to give it a try—if others were already on the floor.

Now add this twist: there are six nights of live music left, you know a few swing moves, and the dance floor is empty. No one is watching too closely—you’ll likely never see these people again. Would you take the chance?

Our Swing Dance Holiday Experience

We danced every night on our recent trip without a care in the world, soaking up the joy of live music. By the sixth evening, a lovely young woman, brimming with enthusiasm, approached us. She asked if we’d dance with her and even sought my permission to ask Andy for a dance—a sweet and thoughtful gesture.

When a lively tune started, I invited her to join me for some solo jazz. Although she had never tried it before, she jumped in, copying my moves with a radiant smile. Afterwards, she asked Andy for a Lindy Hop, explaining how rare it was to swing dance back home. Her joy was infectious, and the three of us shared a wonderful moment of connection through dance.

She later told us about her holiday with her family, where this brief escape into swing dancing had been a highlight. It was a reminder of how much joy simple, shared moments can bring, even among strangers.

What We’ve Learned from Dancing on Cruises

Over the years, we’ve discovered a few truths about dancing on holidays:

1️⃣ The perfect moment might not last. A band might play incredible music one night and shift styles entirely the next. Or, as we experienced, a lead singer could fall ill, changing the group’s vibe entirely.

2️⃣ You might not see that couple again. Ships are big, and people’s schedules rarely align.

3️⃣ No one is judging your dancing. Most people are simply impressed you’re dancing at all!

4️⃣ Opportunities are fleeting. That perfect mix of music, mood, and moment might never come around again.

Our Blissful Moment

On this cruise, we stumbled upon the best jazz band we’ve ever encountered on a ship. For one magical 45-minute set, we danced to every song they played, fully immersed in the music and the moment. It turned out to be their last performance of those songs.

That experience reminded us of an essential lesson: seize the moment when it comes. Whether it’s dancing, trying something new, or simply stepping out of your comfort zone, don’t wait.

So next time you see a dance floor calling your name, even if it’s empty and the band is playing just for you, take that first step. Who knows? You might inspire someone else to join in—or create a memory that will last a lifetime. 💃🕺

What about you?
If you were on holiday and saw a couple swing dancing, or you’re thinking of asking someone for a dance at a swing dance social, what would you do? Share your thoughts!

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Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone: Learning to Ride a Bicycle

July 25, 2024 by Joo-Lee

How did you feel as a beginner? What advice can you give me? For the past 12 weeks, I’ve been gearing up to learn to ride a bicycle. With just one week left before I push myself even further by cycling with others in Bordeaux, I’m feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. It’s one thing to practice on a spacious, empty running track, but the thought of navigating real-world scenarios makes my heart race and my mind conduct a constant risk assessment.

Learning to ride a bike as an older adult has been both challenging and enlightening. It’s made me reflect on what it feels like to be a beginner again, and how our fears can sometimes be exaggerated. This experience has also reminded me of when I first started dancing. Many of us felt awkward and self-conscious, worrying about making mistakes or looking silly.

However, just like with dance, each wobble on the bike is a step towards gaining confidence. It’s all about persistence and allowing ourselves the grace to be imperfect. Our fears often stem from the unknown and the pressure we put on ourselves to get it right the first time. But remember, it’s okay to make mistakes – that’s how we learn and grow.

In dance, as in cycling, it’s important to focus on the joy of the activity rather than the fear of failure. When we let go of our fears, we open ourselves up to new experiences and the chance to build wonderful memories. So, whether you’re learning to ride a bike, starting a new dance routine, or trying something completely different, embrace the journey and the lessons it brings.

I’d love to hear your experiences and any tips you might have! What advice can you share about overcoming the fear of being a beginner? Let’s support each other in stepping out of our comfort zones and discovering the joys that lie beyond.

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Embrace the Full Experience: The Value of Committing to a 6-Week Lindy Jazz Course

July 7, 2024 by Joo-Lee
We’re all excited about our upcoming cruise this summer! Just as this holiday promises an all-inclusive experience where everything is taken care of, our 6-week Lindy Jazz courses offer a complete and rewarding learning journey. Here’s why committing to our courses can be just as wonderful as our all-inclusive holiday!

The All-Inclusive Holiday Experience

Think about the cruise where your room, food, drinks, activities, and excursions are all included. You can choose to enjoy as much or as little as you like. Some might eat and drink more, while others might join in more activities. The best part is having the freedom to balance your experience, making sure it’s enjoyable and not overwhelming.

Remember, you don’t need to eat and drink everything on holiday or attend every class in the course or learn every move. You have choices!

Our 6-week Lindy Jazz courses are similar. When you commit to the full course, you get:
- Consistent Learning and Skill Building: Just as you wouldn’t want to miss any part of an all-inclusive holiday, the continuity of a 6-week course ensures you don’t miss important learning moments. Each week builds on the previous one, allowing you to improve steadily.
- Dedicated Community: Being part of a group that commits together enhances the learning experience. You grow and improve alongside your peers, creating a supportive and motivating environment.
- Comprehensive Resources: Our courses are not just about attending weekly classes. You get access to online videos to recap moves, a private Facebook Messenger group for any questions, and optional online feedback on your practice videos. This complete approach ensures you have everything you need to succeed.
The Drawbacks of Dropping In and Out

In the past, we offered drop-in classes where dancers could come and go as they pleased. While this might seem flexible, it didn’t provide the same level of improvement that our 6-week courses do. Dropping in and out disrupted the flow of learning, making it harder to build a strong foundation and progress consistently.

The Power of Commitment

Those who have committed to our 6-week courses have seen big improvements in their dance skills. Here’s why:
- Structured Learning Path: Each class is part of a well-planned curriculum that ensures you learn the basics and build on them week by week.
- Reinforcement and Practice: With access to online materials, you can practise between classes, reinforcing what you’ve learned and coming back stronger each week.
- Personalised Feedback: Our private Facebook Messenger group and optional video feedback provide chances for personalised guidance, helping you refine your technique and overcome challenges.
What You Get in Our 6-Week Courses

To remind you of the fantastic value included in our 6-week courses, here’s a breakdown of what you receive:
- ✅ For all levels: 19:30 – 20:15 Swing Dance Fundamentals
- ✅ For Experienced Dancers: 20:15 – 21:00 Extra Class
- ✅ Access to online videos to help you recap the moves between classes or catch up in case you couldn’t attend
- ✅ Access to a private Facebook Messenger group so you can ask about anything!
- ✅ Optional online feedback on your practice videos
Final Thoughts

Just like the cruise, our 6-week courses are designed to be an all-inclusive experience where you get the most out of your time and effort. Committing to the full duration allows you to truly immerse yourself in the learning process, ensuring you walk away with significant improvements and a deeper understanding of Lindy Jazz.

We encourage each of you to embrace this commitment. Whether you can attend every class or master every move, the journey itself will bring about amazing results.

Click here to see the details of the next Lindy Jazz course.
Category Beginners, Courses & Classes, Dance, Improvers, Lindy Hop | Tags: | No Comments
6 or 8 Count?

July 1, 2024 by Joo-Lee

Are you a fan of ‘6-count’ patterns, ‘8-count’ patterns, or do you love to mix it up a bit? Remember, you always have options, especially if you’re leading the dance. If you’re following, we encourage you to let go and enjoy the flow. Forget about thinking ahead and just bounce in sync with your partner, feeling the rhythm and movement. My motto for following is simple: “Feel more and think less.”

For those leading the dance, ‘6-count’ and ‘8-count’ patterns are great for practice, but remember that Lindy Hop is based on a 2-beat count.

If you wish to be in 6 or 8 count for the entire dance, that’s perfectly fine. If you have no idea whether you are dancing in phrases of 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 beats when social dancing, that’s fantastic as it doesn’t matter!

In class, just count along or scat with your teachers and fellow dancers. Don’t overanalyse as too much thinking can be distracting.

A crucial tip: resist the urge to assess your own dancing skills (and that of your partner’s 😉). Self-assessment and being assessed can be incredibly distracting. The best way to improve is to simply show up, enjoy the classes, and immerse yourself in the dance.

If you have musical skills from other genres, try not to overthink how jazz phrasing fits with the 6 or 8-count practice patterns. And if you’re more familiar with melodies than rhythms, focus on tuning into the rhythm.

Above all, keep moving, keep counting, and keep smiling. Enjoy every moment on the dance floor and remember to think less and feel more!

Happy dancing!

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Dancing is like Speaking

March 26, 2024 by Joo-Lee

One thing I’ve found when people are learning to partner dance is they want to do everything amazingly well straight away. They’ve seen the performances on ‘Strictly’ and the brilliant dancers on YouTube who make it look so effortless, and they want to fast forward to dancing like that.

Everyone thinks about the process of learning to dance very differently. For me, I think of the learning of dance as being exactly the same as learning language and communication skills. When you’re little, you don’t go from not being able to talk to suddenly having clever conversations. You start with the basics and then you advance over time; first you have to master the alphabet, then you form words, then basic sentences, and eventually, you master the clever conversations.

Start with the building blocks-learn the alphabet

So for example when a brand new beginner comes to learn to partner dance, we would normally teach them the alphabet; those basic moves and steps like the rock step, walking, or swinging your arms. Just like when learning to talk, before we put words or sentences together and learn higher level skills, we need to learn the basic foundations.

Don’t expect to run (or dance) before you can walk-form the words

When our dancers are right at the beginning of their dance journey, we encourage them to manage their expectations. It’s important that they don’t expect to be able to lead and follow or display those higher level skills just yet. Using the learning to talk analogy, when we learn the alphabet, it doesn’t teach us how to have a coherent conversation or join words together. We need to practise the alphabet then eventually form words. So when learning to partner dance, you need to practise the basics on your own, whenever you get the chance. Repetition and patience is the key.

Forget the clever conversations-begin with short sentences

If you’re doing a 6-week Lindy Jazz course, by week 3 you might be at the point where a few moves are coming together. But we will always encourage you not to stray from getting the basics right and expecting to master higher level skills too soon. This is the same as expecting to go from learning a few words here and there to having a clever conversation. This puts far too much pressure on you way too soon and it can take the fun out of learning to dance. Be patient; the clever conversations will come. Focus on mastering the basics, repetition, and having fun. The clever bits will come in time.

Dance is not performance, it’s communication

That’s why we run the 6-week courses. Sometimes when people drop into a single class as a one-off, they expect to be able to master things straight away. Others may see dance as merely a performance, like an actor learning a new language so they can perform in a French play. This is because we see so much dance on social media and television, it’s easy to think that learning to dance is a means to an end. The end goal being a performance.

Here at Lindy Jazz, we think of dance as learning a skill and using that skill to communicate. We don’t teach our dancers to memorise choreography, we teach them the alphabet, the words, the sentences, and the structure so they have the freedom to express themselves and communicate with those who are on the same wavelength and speak the same language.

Learn to speak the language of dance-the right way

You can’t learn a language by reading a book or watching videos. You have to speak it and be immersed in it. That’s why we create a friendly and relaxing environment for everyone to learn a few dance steps, stumble, feel uncoordinated, and make mistakes along the way. Just like when you’re learning a language. It takes time to be fluent, and mistakes and feedback are all part of the learning process.

So book a place on our next 6-week course and learn the language of dance the right way. Join us for fun, relaxing, and enjoyable experience that will help you build some solid foundations for the next steps on your dance journey.

Category Beginners, Courses & Classes, Dance, Lindy Hop | Tags: | 2 Comments
FREE Private Lindy Hop Lessons with Lindy Jazz

November 28, 2023 by Joo-Lee

I wanted to share with you an incredible opportunity that Andy and I discovered as a game-changer in our dance journey—private lessons. While attending classes worldwide and subscribing to dance videos was amazing, the true magic happened when we sought feedback.

We invested in private sessions with instructors from different corners of the globe. Their insights opened our eyes to things we couldn’t see on our own, accelerating our learning in ways we never imagined.

Learning independently is fantastic, but sometimes, there are blind spots we’re unaware of. That’s why seeking feedback is an essential part of your Lindy Jazz course. That’s why we’re offering FREE Online Private Lessons!

Even if you’re unable to attend all six weeks of the next course, worry not! You’ll receive online feedback as part of your Lindy Jazz course.

Here’s a fantastic example: I’ve obtained permission from Terry to share a video that immensely benefits everyone. If you’re comfortable sharing your videos with the group, feel free to post them. However, if you prefer a more personalized approach, I’m offering exclusive private online feedback sessions. Just send your video to me privately via messenger.

This special offer aims to take your skills and provide tailored guidance to refine your dance techniques.

Keep dancing, learning, and don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity!

Remember, getting feedback is the best way to improve and refine your skills. Keep dancing and learning!

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How Do The Lindy Jazz Courses Work?

September 30, 2023 by Joo-Lee

We’d like to thank Vivienne, one our Lindy Jazz members for her views on how it all works!

Is everyone in the class really good already?
When I was a beginner, my main goal was simply to learn to swing dance to fabulous music. I wasn’t concerned about whether others were better dancers than me—I just wanted to gather the courage to go on my own. It was a personal achievement I aimed for, and thanks to Joo-Lee, Andy, and my fellow dancers, I felt incredibly welcome.

Will I be the oldest or the slowest in the class?
Personally, I didn’t worry about the age of my fellow dancers. When I first attended, the class had a diverse range of ages, so I never felt uncomfortable.

How long does it take to be able to dance?
There isn’t an exact timeframe for this. We learn foundational steps that serve as building blocks for more complex routines and moves. Personal attitude plays a role too—learning to relax, not being too critical of yourself if things don’t go perfectly, and embracing the freedom to express your own personality through dance. With Joo-Lee and Andy, there’s no pressure to get it right immediately. Dancing is an exciting, ongoing journey.

Are the Lindy Jazz courses suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Lindy Jazz courses are specifically designed for beginners. The learning pace is relaxed, breaking down everything from basic steps to counting beats, rhythm, and the unique style of Lindy Jazz. Supportive videos recap the steps, and Joo-Lee and Andy are excellent, approachable teachers who are always happy to help with any dance-related questions.

What is the Extra Class?
Extra classes are suitable for anyone with extra time, extra energy ,extra dance experience, extra patience and want extra moves. At Lindy Jazz, there are no assessments, that’s why you won’t hear us talking about ‘levels’. It’s all about the amount of time, energy and patience you have on a Wednesday evening!

If I can’t attend every class in the course, will I fall behind or miss out?
Not at all! We provide recap videos via an online link that you automatically gain access to when you start the course. Additionally, there’s a Messenger group where you can watch videos or share supportive messages with other dancers. You’ll also receive emails about upcoming workshops and social events, ensuring you stay connected even if you miss a class.

What is a Jazz Social?
It’s your chance to: 🎷 Enjoy DJ Andy’s amazing swing playlist
🕺 Relax, dance, practise or just soak up the atmosphere
🌙 Every Wednesday in the summer courses 21:00-22:00
Just £4 on the door or free if you’re a course member.

Sign up here to receive occasional emails from Lindy Jazz with updates and upcoming courses.

Category Beginners, Courses & Classes, Dance, Lindy Hop | Tags: , Lindy Hop, Lindy Hop beginners, Swing Dance Durham | No Comments