Good Morning Dancers!
I'm sorry, we have no video recap of last night's class. Captain Pajamas was out sick, and with him, the video camera. We'll try again next week.
BUT, as a quick reminder to those of you who attended, this is what went down: We did some drills in solo movement (walks, groove walks, triple steps, all with and without turns) to focus on balance, pulse, and rhythm. Phil took the beginners out to the lobby for some sweet lovin' I mean Lindy Hop basics. I had the intermediate class do an April Fool's Gender Bender, with ladies leading and gentlemen following. The goal was to give everyone a glimpse of how the dance feels from the other side of the connection.
That's all for this week, except to reiterate my enthusiastic WELCOME to new students Allison, Frank, Barbara, and Eva! (Ava?) Hope to see everyone back next week!
Showing posts with label lesson recap. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lesson recap. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Monday, February 14, 2011
Lesson Recaps
Looks like I haven't gotten much better about recapping weekly. And, EVEN THOUGH WE HAVE A CAMERA NOW, we haven't been posting videos. Feel free to berate me about this in person, it might help move things along.
So ok, let me try to remember the past few weeks. When we left off, it was January 19th, meaning that the following Monday was the 24th. I BELIEVE that Phil and I taught that night, and did what I now think of as a "variety show." We reviewed the basics from a few of our beloved but oft neglected dances (Balboa, Bal-Swing, Collegiate Foxtrot) and talked about our favorite ways to transition into and out of these dances from the more familiar Lindy Hop and Charleston. We talked about using simple steps from different styles of dance to bring variety to your Lindy, and as a tool for musicality.
I believe Evan was out with The Death that night.
The following Monday was January 31st. Evan taught a sequence of moves that built on one and other, and the details are a little fuzzy in my memory. Upon consulting him, I have gleaned the following: Lindy Circle to double hand hold, tuck turn keeping only the lead's right hand, and a reverse turn for lady, while the guy barrel rolls under own arm, then rolls her back to front. Ugh, this is why we need videos.
That brings us to last week, Monday, February 7th. Evan worked with the beginners during the first hour while Phil and I taught an intermediate class on how to relax while dancing. We did several lead/follow drills to focus on making the most of your (and your partner's) momentum and the connection between the two of you. We also talked about putting in the energy needed to do a move and not more. We experimented with different styles of walking during dancing. The idea was that something as simple as walking with your partner can look really good, and be very musical, if you bring some attitude and stay relaxed.
Phew! That gets us caught up to now. With any luck, the pain of having to recall all of this will deter me from putting off a recap of tonight's lesson. Remember, feel free to berate me.
So ok, let me try to remember the past few weeks. When we left off, it was January 19th, meaning that the following Monday was the 24th. I BELIEVE that Phil and I taught that night, and did what I now think of as a "variety show." We reviewed the basics from a few of our beloved but oft neglected dances (Balboa, Bal-Swing, Collegiate Foxtrot) and talked about our favorite ways to transition into and out of these dances from the more familiar Lindy Hop and Charleston. We talked about using simple steps from different styles of dance to bring variety to your Lindy, and as a tool for musicality.
I believe Evan was out with The Death that night.
The following Monday was January 31st. Evan taught a sequence of moves that built on one and other, and the details are a little fuzzy in my memory. Upon consulting him, I have gleaned the following: Lindy Circle to double hand hold, tuck turn keeping only the lead's right hand, and a reverse turn for lady, while the guy barrel rolls under own arm, then rolls her back to front. Ugh, this is why we need videos.
That brings us to last week, Monday, February 7th. Evan worked with the beginners during the first hour while Phil and I taught an intermediate class on how to relax while dancing. We did several lead/follow drills to focus on making the most of your (and your partner's) momentum and the connection between the two of you. We also talked about putting in the energy needed to do a move and not more. We experimented with different styles of walking during dancing. The idea was that something as simple as walking with your partner can look really good, and be very musical, if you bring some attitude and stay relaxed.
Phew! That gets us caught up to now. With any luck, the pain of having to recall all of this will deter me from putting off a recap of tonight's lesson. Remember, feel free to berate me.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Lesson Recaps
I have to apologize for dropping the ball on lesson recaps lately. And I have to apologize some MORE because we actually DO have a camera now, and so I SHOULD be able to post videos for you guys, and yet I'm not. Though to my credit, that is not really my fault. Still I will try to do something about it, and if you guys remind me, I will probably get it done sooner.
Anyway, as you may recall (though it seems like it was a long time ago) we had no class on December 27th. We returned with gusto on January 3rd, or at least I assume that we did, but I don't for the life of me remember what went on that night. Anyone who does is encouraged to remind me in the comments section of this post.
January 10th was a special night because Oscar and Samantha taught the first class, and visiting instructors Davis Thurber and Claudia Laplante taught an aerials class for the competitive team. (BTW, competitive team, did you all remember to PAY THEM?) Here's Davis and Claudia dancing at the 2010 International Lindy Hop Championships:
The aerial we spent most of our time on is the Waterfall, which they do at about 1:31 in that video.
That brings us to this week, which was open floor night! We all got a chance to do some social dancing and work on whatever we wanted to.
All month long, the team has been working on our routine for the Heartland Swing Festival in March. The team is going to be reppin' the 'ta in a serious way at this event, and it would be great if a bunch more Lindy Bombers came to the event with us. Most, if not all of the team members will be doing multiple competitions, and our team ladies have all entered the Miss Heartland Swing contest. By the way, if you somehow HAVEN'T voted for Miss Heartland yet, get it done! I'll leave you with that.
Anyway, as you may recall (though it seems like it was a long time ago) we had no class on December 27th. We returned with gusto on January 3rd, or at least I assume that we did, but I don't for the life of me remember what went on that night. Anyone who does is encouraged to remind me in the comments section of this post.
January 10th was a special night because Oscar and Samantha taught the first class, and visiting instructors Davis Thurber and Claudia Laplante taught an aerials class for the competitive team. (BTW, competitive team, did you all remember to PAY THEM?) Here's Davis and Claudia dancing at the 2010 International Lindy Hop Championships:
The aerial we spent most of our time on is the Waterfall, which they do at about 1:31 in that video.
That brings us to this week, which was open floor night! We all got a chance to do some social dancing and work on whatever we wanted to.
All month long, the team has been working on our routine for the Heartland Swing Festival in March. The team is going to be reppin' the 'ta in a serious way at this event, and it would be great if a bunch more Lindy Bombers came to the event with us. Most, if not all of the team members will be doing multiple competitions, and our team ladies have all entered the Miss Heartland Swing contest. By the way, if you somehow HAVEN'T voted for Miss Heartland yet, get it done! I'll leave you with that.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Lesson Recap 12/20/10
Last night was OPEN FLOOR NIGHT which meant many of us spent some quality time working on new moves or technique weakenesses. Evan also did a review of the solor Charleston routine, a video of which can be found in last week's lesson recap post. Evan was perpared to move on to some new material, but unfortunately we ran short on time. Maybe on the next open floor night!
The team spent a SOLID practice brushing up on our solo movement and partner dancing technique. All this in preparation for our next performance, at the Heartland Swing Festival in Iowa next year. More on that to come. . .
Megan taught an hour of FUN-damentals while team practice was going on, and I spied not one, but TWO new students in her class. Let's hope they keep coming back!
I'm about to post some announcements that pertain to ALL Lindy Bombers, so don't go away!
The team spent a SOLID practice brushing up on our solo movement and partner dancing technique. All this in preparation for our next performance, at the Heartland Swing Festival in Iowa next year. More on that to come. . .
Megan taught an hour of FUN-damentals while team practice was going on, and I spied not one, but TWO new students in her class. Let's hope they keep coming back!
I'm about to post some announcements that pertain to ALL Lindy Bombers, so don't go away!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Lesson Recap 12/6/10
Last night was very technique-focused, which was a change from our recent routine. We started the 7:30 practice with turn drills and bounce drills (YAY BOUNCE DRILLS). Then we worked on some siwngout fundamentals that were new to some and familiar to others. We had the leads keep their left arms short through counts 5&6, already beginning to establish the connection necessary to stretch anywhere from 7-3. We also worked on varying the amount each partner travels in a swingout, from having the lead more or less circle the follow to a normal, shared-momentum swingout. For the ladies, we worked on the "energizer bunny concept" that says you should continue to move in the direction you were last lead until you are stopped by the next lead. We practiced this by having the leads alternate swingouts and 6ct passes in unpredictable patterns.
During team practice, we ran our routine over and over. It's that time; only a couple of weeks left until we perform!
During team practice, we ran our routine over and over. It's that time; only a couple of weeks left until we perform!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Lesson Recap 11/29/2010
Monday's 7:30 lesson was a combined beginner/intermediate tour of moves that start and end in closed position. We started out with Jig Walks, then did some little pop outs that can travel in either direction or become rotational. We did some little hops in closed, which of course made my night, as it involved jumping around. We did a Balboa break that works well from closed position in any swing dance.
We also did a 6-ct inside turn from closed that "landed" us face-to-face, but offset, from our partners. In this sort of ballroom-like position, we can walk around or do the bird or any other manner of silly things. We used a HIP LEAD (capitalized because it is one of my favorite things ever) to get ourselves back into normal closed position.
Hope that jogs your memory, if you were trying to remember what we covered. See you next time!
We also did a 6-ct inside turn from closed that "landed" us face-to-face, but offset, from our partners. In this sort of ballroom-like position, we can walk around or do the bird or any other manner of silly things. We used a HIP LEAD (capitalized because it is one of my favorite things ever) to get ourselves back into normal closed position.
Hope that jogs your memory, if you were trying to remember what we covered. See you next time!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Lesson Recap 11/22
For an exciting change of pace, Oscar and Samantha taught on Monday and worked with the whole group on our slow dancing technique. We focused hard on connection and natural movement, and learned a sequence of moves. I for one LOVE slow dancing (and/or blues, whatever) so I had a great time.
The team worked on our routine for the 19th. . . and that's about it! We have a lot to do between now and then!
The team worked on our routine for the 19th. . . and that's about it! We have a lot to do between now and then!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Lesson Recap 11/8/10
Last night was great, so thank you to everyone who came out!
During the first hour, Evan brought us some fun new Lindy Hop moves. We started out with a swingout that turned into a duck-under for the leads (under their own right arm) ending in either open or closed. We also did 8-ct Lindy footwork with a Bal-Swing shape to it instead of a typical swingout or Lindy circle. In that context, we worked on a free spin and a texas tommy. We also did a new turn from cross hand that had TWO, count them TWO tucks, orchestrated by the cross hand connection and the lead's left hand on the follow's right elbow. Last, but certainly not least, we did a move that starts out like a basket and turns into one of my favorite things: A HIP LEAD! Lead get's his R hand on follow's R hip by count 4, also his L hand on her L shoulder. Changes her direction around count 5 and spins her out 6-8. I really liked that one, if you can't tell!
Team practice was productive last night as we plowed through some new choreography which you will get to SEE on Sunday, Dec. 19th if you come to Harry Reese. It's looking good so far, I can imagine that it will be awesome by then! We worked on aerials too, including, to my great satisfaction, some same-sex aerials we're saving for a rainy day.
See you on the dance floor!
~Chelsea
During the first hour, Evan brought us some fun new Lindy Hop moves. We started out with a swingout that turned into a duck-under for the leads (under their own right arm) ending in either open or closed. We also did 8-ct Lindy footwork with a Bal-Swing shape to it instead of a typical swingout or Lindy circle. In that context, we worked on a free spin and a texas tommy. We also did a new turn from cross hand that had TWO, count them TWO tucks, orchestrated by the cross hand connection and the lead's left hand on the follow's right elbow. Last, but certainly not least, we did a move that starts out like a basket and turns into one of my favorite things: A HIP LEAD! Lead get's his R hand on follow's R hip by count 4, also his L hand on her L shoulder. Changes her direction around count 5 and spins her out 6-8. I really liked that one, if you can't tell!
Team practice was productive last night as we plowed through some new choreography which you will get to SEE on Sunday, Dec. 19th if you come to Harry Reese. It's looking good so far, I can imagine that it will be awesome by then! We worked on aerials too, including, to my great satisfaction, some same-sex aerials we're saving for a rainy day.
See you on the dance floor!
~Chelsea
Saturday, November 6, 2010
WORKSHOP RECAP!
Hello Lindy Hoppers!
We have had two great workshops recently! I attended both of them, and am here to let you know what went down.
Oscar and Ashley taught a total body movement workshop on October 30th. Some of the major focus points of the day included:
- Using your body's natural way of moving when you're dancing. (For example, you never swing your right arm forward as you walk forward on your right foot. No need for that on the dance floor either.)
- Leading/following with your whole body. We may only be connected through our hands or arms, but moving with our whole bodies is what makes that connection work!
There was a LOT of technique to be learned at this workshop, and those of us who went definitely came away with plenty of things to work on!
Evan and Sonya taught an Intro to Lindy Hop workshop this morning. HUGE THANK YOUs to our newcomers Sarah, Tori, and Amanda (Amanda I know you're not REALLY new but thank you just the same!). We had a handful of beginners and a handful of more experienced dancers to help them out, and I think it was a great event. Hopefully these workshops will help grow our community.
We have had two great workshops recently! I attended both of them, and am here to let you know what went down.
Oscar and Ashley taught a total body movement workshop on October 30th. Some of the major focus points of the day included:
- Using your body's natural way of moving when you're dancing. (For example, you never swing your right arm forward as you walk forward on your right foot. No need for that on the dance floor either.)
- Leading/following with your whole body. We may only be connected through our hands or arms, but moving with our whole bodies is what makes that connection work!
There was a LOT of technique to be learned at this workshop, and those of us who went definitely came away with plenty of things to work on!
Evan and Sonya taught an Intro to Lindy Hop workshop this morning. HUGE THANK YOUs to our newcomers Sarah, Tori, and Amanda (Amanda I know you're not REALLY new but thank you just the same!). We had a handful of beginners and a handful of more experienced dancers to help them out, and I think it was a great event. Hopefully these workshops will help grow our community.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Lesson Recap 11/1/10
Hello Lindy Bombers!
Last night's practice was AWESOME! (OK, maybe I just think that because I helped teach. . .)
During the first hour, Phil and I taught one of our favorite dances: BAL-SWING! We focused a lot on connecting to your partner using counter-balance techniques. We reviewed the Bal-swing basic and did some side-walks. (Haha side-walks. Like sidewalks. Get it?) We also did some Maxie Swivels, and I have no idea where that name comes from or if I spelled it right.
The second hour featured none other than the amazing Megan Pfieffer, dancer extraordinaire and front-woman of the Wash Tub Floozies, teaching with Adam. I don't know what they taught, but if she reads this post, maybe she'll comment and let us know.
The team (sans Oscar, Evan, and Ellen) worked on the Big Apple, jam circle choreography, and aerials. I am proud to report that we have had our first successful girl-on-girl aerial. Stay tuned for more!
Last night's practice was AWESOME! (OK, maybe I just think that because I helped teach. . .)
During the first hour, Phil and I taught one of our favorite dances: BAL-SWING! We focused a lot on connecting to your partner using counter-balance techniques. We reviewed the Bal-swing basic and did some side-walks. (Haha side-walks. Like sidewalks. Get it?) We also did some Maxie Swivels, and I have no idea where that name comes from or if I spelled it right.
The second hour featured none other than the amazing Megan Pfieffer, dancer extraordinaire and front-woman of the Wash Tub Floozies, teaching with Adam. I don't know what they taught, but if she reads this post, maybe she'll comment and let us know.
The team (sans Oscar, Evan, and Ellen) worked on the Big Apple, jam circle choreography, and aerials. I am proud to report that we have had our first successful girl-on-girl aerial. Stay tuned for more!
Friday, October 29, 2010
Lesson Recap 10/25
This week we spent the first hour learning some NEW CHARLESTON MOVES! I love Charleston, so I thought it was fantastic. Quick reminder if you forget what we did already: We learned a common way to get from side-by-side into tandem ("the chase") and followed that up with a sequence to get into hand-to-hand Charleston. We experimented with "missed" (either intentional or not) connections in this position and how to keep dancing through them, and also with a subtle down-lead to change the look of the hand-to-hand basic. We also learned an exit that involved the leads kicking twice on the same side, and I could show it to you if I had to, but I can't describe how it's done. VIDEO CAMERA ANYONE?
The Team did their Teamy things. . . and GUESS WHAT! We're performing our next routine in our "home court," the Harry Reese Dance Studio, on December 19th! That's the week after the Christmas party. Don't miss it, I hear it's going to be awesome!
Stay tuned, I'm about to post a video I found on YouTube at work today. . .
The Team did their Teamy things. . . and GUESS WHAT! We're performing our next routine in our "home court," the Harry Reese Dance Studio, on December 19th! That's the week after the Christmas party. Don't miss it, I hear it's going to be awesome!
Stay tuned, I'm about to post a video I found on YouTube at work today. . .
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Lesson Recap 10/4/10
Hello Dancers!
We had a solid technique lesson last night. Beginners and intermediate dancers combined during the first hour for an intense focus on swingouts. Evan slowly increased the speed of the music as we all did our best to maintain decent technique in the face of rising panic and fatigue. It was a panting, sweaty mess by the end of the lesson. And, just to be clear, I think that's awesome! :-) Congrats to everyone who made it through the hour, and special thanks to Amanda and Cassie for showing up for the first time! (Or in Cassie's case maybe just the first time in a long time)
During the 2nd hour, Elaine started working with the group on the Al & Leon Shim Sham.
The Team worked some more on original choreography, aerials, and the Big Apple routine.
In spite of a successful workshop last weekend, the Lindy Bombers didn't quite have the cash to pay their bills (rent and insurance) this month. If you're behind in paying for lessons, please get caught up ASAP. Also, don't forget to PROMOTE this group on Sunday nights. The more people we have, the more stuff we can do!
Until next time, keep dancing!
We had a solid technique lesson last night. Beginners and intermediate dancers combined during the first hour for an intense focus on swingouts. Evan slowly increased the speed of the music as we all did our best to maintain decent technique in the face of rising panic and fatigue. It was a panting, sweaty mess by the end of the lesson. And, just to be clear, I think that's awesome! :-) Congrats to everyone who made it through the hour, and special thanks to Amanda and Cassie for showing up for the first time! (Or in Cassie's case maybe just the first time in a long time)
During the 2nd hour, Elaine started working with the group on the Al & Leon Shim Sham.
The Team worked some more on original choreography, aerials, and the Big Apple routine.
In spite of a successful workshop last weekend, the Lindy Bombers didn't quite have the cash to pay their bills (rent and insurance) this month. If you're behind in paying for lessons, please get caught up ASAP. Also, don't forget to PROMOTE this group on Sunday nights. The more people we have, the more stuff we can do!
Until next time, keep dancing!
Monday, October 4, 2010
Lesson Recap
Hey Dancers!
Sorry for the delay in posting lesson recaps, and sorry another time because I really don't remember what we did two weeks ago.
Let's see. . . it was September 19th, so a lot of us had just gotten back from Omaha for the Cowtown Jamborama. . . Oh yes! I think it was a Balboa/Bal-Swing day! The beginning and intermediate classes combined for the first hour to do some fun moves, brought to us by Evan. We spent some time reviewing the basics for our newcomers, and also worked on some new moves. The only thing I can remember is a move that involved the follow getting wrapped up and then unwound into a stretch. . . you remember what I'm talking about if you were there. . . but the details are lost forever. If only we had that damn video camera we keep meaning to buy, this wouldn't happen!
Last week (the 26th) we worked some cool Charleston footwork variations, not-so-subtly borrowed from Andrew and Karen's Charlestinnovation class at Cowtown. Quick recap: From Tandem, you can lead a "waterfall" into two different ad lib footwork variations. The first one feels like a rock-step cross, rock-step cross and the second one is more like the version of falling off the log that David and Kim taught in their Shag class at Sunflower Swing. Don't remember? Guess you shoulda been there! (Not really. Ask me, Evan, or anyone who looks like they know what they're doing if you have questions).
The Team practiced their usual material during both weeks, with the exciting addition of Aerials Practice Time! This froggy little blogger couldn't be happier about it. We've been working on the Frankie (also known as: The Helicopter, The Lamp Post, The Lindy Flip, and goodness knows what else), The Knickerbocker (both halves - front flip and back), and another one that we all have a name for and that name is something I don't know if we want to be writing in the blog. You can see Austin and Ashley doing it in the routine performance video from last Christmas.
The Taster class was Blues last month, courtesy of the lovely Megan Pfieffer. This month, Elaine Pischnotti (sorry if that's spelled wrong Elaine) will take over to teach a different version of the Shim Sham, so be ready for some fun solo jazz!
Sorry for the delay in posting lesson recaps, and sorry another time because I really don't remember what we did two weeks ago.
Let's see. . . it was September 19th, so a lot of us had just gotten back from Omaha for the Cowtown Jamborama. . . Oh yes! I think it was a Balboa/Bal-Swing day! The beginning and intermediate classes combined for the first hour to do some fun moves, brought to us by Evan. We spent some time reviewing the basics for our newcomers, and also worked on some new moves. The only thing I can remember is a move that involved the follow getting wrapped up and then unwound into a stretch. . . you remember what I'm talking about if you were there. . . but the details are lost forever. If only we had that damn video camera we keep meaning to buy, this wouldn't happen!
Last week (the 26th) we worked some cool Charleston footwork variations, not-so-subtly borrowed from Andrew and Karen's Charlestinnovation class at Cowtown. Quick recap: From Tandem, you can lead a "waterfall" into two different ad lib footwork variations. The first one feels like a rock-step cross, rock-step cross and the second one is more like the version of falling off the log that David and Kim taught in their Shag class at Sunflower Swing. Don't remember? Guess you shoulda been there! (Not really. Ask me, Evan, or anyone who looks like they know what they're doing if you have questions).
The Team practiced their usual material during both weeks, with the exciting addition of Aerials Practice Time! This froggy little blogger couldn't be happier about it. We've been working on the Frankie (also known as: The Helicopter, The Lamp Post, The Lindy Flip, and goodness knows what else), The Knickerbocker (both halves - front flip and back), and another one that we all have a name for and that name is something I don't know if we want to be writing in the blog. You can see Austin and Ashley doing it in the routine performance video from last Christmas.
The Taster class was Blues last month, courtesy of the lovely Megan Pfieffer. This month, Elaine Pischnotti (sorry if that's spelled wrong Elaine) will take over to teach a different version of the Shim Sham, so be ready for some fun solo jazz!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Lesson Recap
Hello Dancers!
We had a great combined beginner/intermediate class last night in Balboa/Bal-Swing, one of my favorite subjects! Highlights included a review of basic technique, a review/introduction of the come-around, and then a shiny new move. The new move, for those of you who are trying to remember details, starts with a come-around that opens into a two-handed open connection, winds around into something like a sweetheart, then spins the follow back out into open. We finished it off with a very common Bal catch that feels similar to a come-around where both partners "swirl" together.
The 2nd class split up into Blues with Megan and Sonya (feel free to comment with recaps, either of you ladies!) and team practice. We worked on aerials in the team practice, so I was one very happy follow!
Stay tuned for details about our upcoming fundraiser and workshop!
We had a great combined beginner/intermediate class last night in Balboa/Bal-Swing, one of my favorite subjects! Highlights included a review of basic technique, a review/introduction of the come-around, and then a shiny new move. The new move, for those of you who are trying to remember details, starts with a come-around that opens into a two-handed open connection, winds around into something like a sweetheart, then spins the follow back out into open. We finished it off with a very common Bal catch that feels similar to a come-around where both partners "swirl" together.
The 2nd class split up into Blues with Megan and Sonya (feel free to comment with recaps, either of you ladies!) and team practice. We worked on aerials in the team practice, so I was one very happy follow!
Stay tuned for details about our upcoming fundraiser and workshop!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Lesson Recaps!
You've been missing out if you haven't been at practice lately; we've been having a great time and the group is growing!
8/30 - Evan taught some cool cross-hand moves in the Intermediate class, but I can't give you details, because I was with the beginners! We did plenty of nutritious foundation technique work and introduced a move called a crash.
In the 2nd class the team worked as usual on technique, the Big Apple, and original choreography.
Megan finished up her solo jazz class during the taster hour, and announced BLUES for September.
9/6 - Thanks to everyone who made it out on the holiday! We combined beginning/intermediate classes to work on technique for a specific kind of swingout. Evan stressed using stretch on count 1 instead of an immediate forward lead. He also spent time explaining how to keep your own movement (as a lead) linear during each swingout, moving forward from 2-5, and back the way you came from 6-1.
Megan started her Blues class during the 2nd class, while the team kept on keepin' on with the same items from the previous week.
Don't forget there are TWO great opportunities to travel this month: The Cowtown Jamborama in Omaha, NE in two weeks and Southern Fried Swing in Arkansas in three. Look forward to local workshops by Evan and Oscar in October, too!
Cheers!
Chelsea
8/30 - Evan taught some cool cross-hand moves in the Intermediate class, but I can't give you details, because I was with the beginners! We did plenty of nutritious foundation technique work and introduced a move called a crash.
In the 2nd class the team worked as usual on technique, the Big Apple, and original choreography.
Megan finished up her solo jazz class during the taster hour, and announced BLUES for September.
9/6 - Thanks to everyone who made it out on the holiday! We combined beginning/intermediate classes to work on technique for a specific kind of swingout. Evan stressed using stretch on count 1 instead of an immediate forward lead. He also spent time explaining how to keep your own movement (as a lead) linear during each swingout, moving forward from 2-5, and back the way you came from 6-1.
Megan started her Blues class during the 2nd class, while the team kept on keepin' on with the same items from the previous week.
Don't forget there are TWO great opportunities to travel this month: The Cowtown Jamborama in Omaha, NE in two weeks and Southern Fried Swing in Arkansas in three. Look forward to local workshops by Evan and Oscar in October, too!
Cheers!
Chelsea
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Lesson Recaps - June 7th and June 14th
June 7th -
The beginner class worked on basics with Sonya while the intermediate class worked on strengthening technique in swingouts and lindy circles.
The Advanced class worked on some Charleston, including a move Evan saw Max and Annie do at The Rhythm is Jumpin'. It was awesome and it's one of my new favorite moves!
June 14th -
Beginners separated out from the intermediate class to work on foundation material. The intermediate class worked on one of my personal favorites, double turns! We all combined at the end for some tread milling.
The Advanced class continued working on some Max and Annie inspired Charleston moves, including getting the follow in a sort of Sweetheart position and doing the men's footwork, moving her either behind or in front of the lead's right arm, and doing Susie Qs or bal-like cross steps from any of those positions.
The beginner class worked on basics with Sonya while the intermediate class worked on strengthening technique in swingouts and lindy circles.
The Advanced class worked on some Charleston, including a move Evan saw Max and Annie do at The Rhythm is Jumpin'. It was awesome and it's one of my new favorite moves!
June 14th -
Beginners separated out from the intermediate class to work on foundation material. The intermediate class worked on one of my personal favorites, double turns! We all combined at the end for some tread milling.
The Advanced class continued working on some Max and Annie inspired Charleston moves, including getting the follow in a sort of Sweetheart position and doing the men's footwork, moving her either behind or in front of the lead's right arm, and doing Susie Qs or bal-like cross steps from any of those positions.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Lesson Recap - May 31
Hello Lindy Hoppers!
Thanks to all of you who came to class last night, even though it was a holiday! (And thanks to Evan and Ellen for sacrificing their holiday evening so Evan could teach!)
BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE - We combined everyone for the first hour and worked on different styles of musicality. It was awesome! Musicality is how you bring your own personality into your dancing and make your dances memorable. We experimented with changing footwork, dancing "big" and dancing "small," and my personal favorite, focusing on communicating with your partner through your dancing. Incorporating any or all of these techniques is an important part of taking your dancing from technically proficient to actually being entertaining to watch.
ADVANCED - We had a show-and-tell day, which I thought was very cool. Each of the 6 dancers in class for the 2nd hour presented a move or footwork variation for the others to learn. It was nice to see what everyone else is working on, and also a good chance to practice teaching, which not all of us do regularly.
It's not too late to register for The Rhythm Is Jumpin', a Lindy Hop event that's happening in Kansas City this weekend! If you've never been to an out-of-town event, I strongly recommend this one for your first. It's a fun size, lots of local dancers will be there, and you'll have a chance to learn form some very talented and recognized instructors.
Next month, the Wichita Swing Dance Society will turn 10 years old! Join the weekend-long celebration by coming to Sunflower Swing, our very own Lindy Hop Event. It's going to be a great time, and it's going to be right here in Wichita!
In other news, the Shadow, our home for free dancing two Tuesdays each month, is closing on June 19th. If you know of any other place where we can take our little heard of dancers, please contact Evan or another WSDS Board Member and let us know!
See you next Monday!
~Chelsea
Thanks to all of you who came to class last night, even though it was a holiday! (And thanks to Evan and Ellen for sacrificing their holiday evening so Evan could teach!)
BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE - We combined everyone for the first hour and worked on different styles of musicality. It was awesome! Musicality is how you bring your own personality into your dancing and make your dances memorable. We experimented with changing footwork, dancing "big" and dancing "small," and my personal favorite, focusing on communicating with your partner through your dancing. Incorporating any or all of these techniques is an important part of taking your dancing from technically proficient to actually being entertaining to watch.
ADVANCED - We had a show-and-tell day, which I thought was very cool. Each of the 6 dancers in class for the 2nd hour presented a move or footwork variation for the others to learn. It was nice to see what everyone else is working on, and also a good chance to practice teaching, which not all of us do regularly.
It's not too late to register for The Rhythm Is Jumpin', a Lindy Hop event that's happening in Kansas City this weekend! If you've never been to an out-of-town event, I strongly recommend this one for your first. It's a fun size, lots of local dancers will be there, and you'll have a chance to learn form some very talented and recognized instructors.
Next month, the Wichita Swing Dance Society will turn 10 years old! Join the weekend-long celebration by coming to Sunflower Swing, our very own Lindy Hop Event. It's going to be a great time, and it's going to be right here in Wichita!
In other news, the Shadow, our home for free dancing two Tuesdays each month, is closing on June 19th. If you know of any other place where we can take our little heard of dancers, please contact Evan or another WSDS Board Member and let us know!
See you next Monday!
~Chelsea
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Lesson Recap - May 24th
Hey Lindy Bombers!
Last night we were just about EVENLY MATCHED leads to follows, and we had a new couple join the group! What could be better?? (Aside from a video recap.)
Both lessons took us back to some fundamental moves, and focused on the fine technique points involved in each one. Evan stressed that having strong techniques for "simple" moves is what gives is better technique in more advanced ones.
BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE: We practiced 6ct tuck turns from closed, and leads worked on varying their technique to get the follow to travel a lot or a little. We also spent some time on a 6ct inside turn from open (aka a 6ct pass) and follows worked on reaching a full stretch connection before "unwinding" through the turn. Finally, we worked on at 8ct outside turn and had everyone practice pulsing down into the ground and generally try to be solidly "based."
ADVANCED: We worked on 6ct sugar pushes, having the leads lead a rock step on counts 1-2 to make the move more Lindy- and speed-friendly. After a lot of discussion about using the stretch/compression connection in this simple move, we went on to a new move that applies the same principles + a "momentum steal" by the lead. Don't worry follows, he gives it back, and you get a "whee" moment!
As always, we had an inspirational video to watch between classes. On a personal note, this is one of my favorites!
*swoon*
See you guys TONIGHT at the Shadow. Also, we WILL be having class on Memorial Monday!
~Chelsea
PS We also selected a mascot for the team. See the sidebar of our homepage for a picture!
Last night we were just about EVENLY MATCHED leads to follows, and we had a new couple join the group! What could be better?? (Aside from a video recap.)
Both lessons took us back to some fundamental moves, and focused on the fine technique points involved in each one. Evan stressed that having strong techniques for "simple" moves is what gives is better technique in more advanced ones.
BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE: We practiced 6ct tuck turns from closed, and leads worked on varying their technique to get the follow to travel a lot or a little. We also spent some time on a 6ct inside turn from open (aka a 6ct pass) and follows worked on reaching a full stretch connection before "unwinding" through the turn. Finally, we worked on at 8ct outside turn and had everyone practice pulsing down into the ground and generally try to be solidly "based."
ADVANCED: We worked on 6ct sugar pushes, having the leads lead a rock step on counts 1-2 to make the move more Lindy- and speed-friendly. After a lot of discussion about using the stretch/compression connection in this simple move, we went on to a new move that applies the same principles + a "momentum steal" by the lead. Don't worry follows, he gives it back, and you get a "whee" moment!
As always, we had an inspirational video to watch between classes. On a personal note, this is one of my favorites!
*swoon*
See you guys TONIGHT at the Shadow. Also, we WILL be having class on Memorial Monday!
~Chelsea
PS We also selected a mascot for the team. See the sidebar of our homepage for a picture!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Lesson Recap - May 3rd
We had a small but enthusiastic group last night. So small, in fact, that there was no need to hold a separate beginner class. For the first hour, we all worked on three variations of the Texas Tommy. In brief, they were:
- Texas Tommy with a turn for the follow on the last triple step
- Texas Tommy where the lead ducks under his own right arm to turn during the last triple
- Texas Tommy again with the lead turning clockwise under his right arm on 6-8, but only to the point where he's facing away from the follow. He then leads a tuck turn that doesn't lend itself to verbal description. Ask one of the leads who was there tonight for a demonstration.
- The fake-out Texas Tommy
The advanced class was follow-focused (YAY) and we worked on a few moves thieved from this video:
The moves we stole happen at about 1:47 (Frida's 6-8 on her first two swingouts), 3:18 (Same person, same timing), 3:44 (Laura's footwork variation) and 3:55 (Naomi's smooth tuck turn).
That's it for recap, BUT WAIT, I HAVE MORE TO SAY!
1. If you STILL haven't paid for April, please do so ASAP. Every month will get us closer to a video camera and, blessedly, the end of my verbal descriptions of moves.
2. THERE WILL BE NO PRACTICE NEXT WEEK! There's a dance at Riverfest that lots of us will be going to instead, so come practice your moves to some live music and we'll get back together the following week.
Toodles!
~Chelsea
- Texas Tommy with a turn for the follow on the last triple step
- Texas Tommy where the lead ducks under his own right arm to turn during the last triple
- Texas Tommy again with the lead turning clockwise under his right arm on 6-8, but only to the point where he's facing away from the follow. He then leads a tuck turn that doesn't lend itself to verbal description. Ask one of the leads who was there tonight for a demonstration.
- The fake-out Texas Tommy
The advanced class was follow-focused (YAY) and we worked on a few moves thieved from this video:
The moves we stole happen at about 1:47 (Frida's 6-8 on her first two swingouts), 3:18 (Same person, same timing), 3:44 (Laura's footwork variation) and 3:55 (Naomi's smooth tuck turn).
That's it for recap, BUT WAIT, I HAVE MORE TO SAY!
1. If you STILL haven't paid for April, please do so ASAP. Every month will get us closer to a video camera and, blessedly, the end of my verbal descriptions of moves.
2. THERE WILL BE NO PRACTICE NEXT WEEK! There's a dance at Riverfest that lots of us will be going to instead, so come practice your moves to some live music and we'll get back together the following week.
Toodles!
~Chelsea
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
April 5th and April 12th Lesson Recaps
Hello Dancers!
Apologies for never posting a lesson recap last week. Still, better late than never!
APRIL 5th:
Beginner/Intermediate: We reviewed three of the basic Lindy Hop Turns (6-count inside, 8-count inside, and 8-count outside). Then we added a jazz step variation onto each:
-6-count inside into the lead doing Susie Q's, leading the follow along beside him as she styles however she wants to
-8-count inside turn into Shorty Georges for both partners
-8-count outside turn into Rusty Dusty's
Advanced: It was the first Monday of the month, and that means one thing: AUDITIONS! Congratulations to Elaine for making it into the Advanced class this month!
April 12th:
Beginner/Intermediate: Evan taught a series of moves with a laid back, smooth theme. When it's done right, this style of dancing is one of my absolute favorites! Here's my best attempt to verbally describe the moves: (Where's that video camera when we need it?)
-Start off in closed and lead an 8-count inside turn. Catch the follow on count 4, "stealing" her momentum to propel yourself through a turn under your own arm during counts 5-8. You should end in open, having passed your follow.
-From open, lead a 6-count "thrust pass" (not as exciting as it sounds). Start your follow moving forward on counts 1 and 2, similar to a swingout or regular 6-count pass. Then, in the neighborhood of count 3, "thrust" with your leading hand as if you're challenging someone to a sword fight, let go of your follow and turn over your own right shoulder. The effect SHOULD be that she turns over her left shoulder in a free spin before you catch in open (follow having passed across the lead) in the neighborhood of counts 5 and 6. Catch her left with your right.
-Still in open, lead a Hollywood Pass. It's just like a vanilla 6-count pass, except you should start perpendicular to your follow, not facing her dead on. You can switch hands as she goes by or not. For our purposes last night, we did not.
-Still in open, lead a circular rock step on 1-2 and bring your follow in, as if for a 6-count free spin on 3. On 4, however, catch her wrist from above with your right hand (it should still be free, we've been leading with our left since the thrust pass). Reverse the direction of her spin with your right hand, and stay with her through counts 5 and 6. End back in closed. Rinse and repeat if desired.
Hopefully that's enough description to get you through the moves if you were IN class to see them.
REMINDERS:
Promote, promote, promote, ESPECIALLY to new follows :-) The more people we have, the more awesome stuff we can do.
Swing on This!!! is coming up in just a couple of weeks! April 24th, for 30$, you can get 4 Lindy Hop classes (choose from beginner or experienced levels) and a night of swing dancing. The fun starts at Old Town Ballroom at high noon. Pay at the door.
Benny Goodman Tribute Concert: Saturday, May 1 at the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center (225 West Douglas Avenue) there will be a tribute to Benny Goodman starting at 8:00 PM. Some of your Lindy Bomber teammates will be there to get the dancing started, and it should be a great time!
Upcoming Road Trips: If you feel like dancing in a new scene, join your fellow Lindy Bombers and Wichita Swing Dance Society members on one of our upcoming road trips! A few of us will be heading to Kansas City to dance at their weekly shindig on May 1, and later this summer we'd like to make trips to Tulsa and Emporia. Getting out of town and representing the 'ta help bring new dancers to our events, and it's a great way to test your social dancing ability!
The Rhythm is Jumpin' Sort of like Kansas City's version of our Sunflower Swing, TRIJ is a yearly event that pulls dancers from all over the Midwest. Wichita has a history of being well represented, and we don't plan on breaking that tradition! If you're interested in going, talk to Oscar Hampton at Swing on This!!!, he might just sell you a pass at the early-bird rate.
Sunflower Swing: It's coming up quicker than you think! Registration has already jumped from 40$ to 50$, so if you've been procrastinating, it's time to get on that.
Are you even still reading? I think this is the longest LB blog post ever! Thanks for being a trooper. See you next week for OPEN FLOOR NIGHT!
~Chelsea
Apologies for never posting a lesson recap last week. Still, better late than never!
APRIL 5th:
Beginner/Intermediate: We reviewed three of the basic Lindy Hop Turns (6-count inside, 8-count inside, and 8-count outside). Then we added a jazz step variation onto each:
-6-count inside into the lead doing Susie Q's, leading the follow along beside him as she styles however she wants to
-8-count inside turn into Shorty Georges for both partners
-8-count outside turn into Rusty Dusty's
Advanced: It was the first Monday of the month, and that means one thing: AUDITIONS! Congratulations to Elaine for making it into the Advanced class this month!
April 12th:
Beginner/Intermediate: Evan taught a series of moves with a laid back, smooth theme. When it's done right, this style of dancing is one of my absolute favorites! Here's my best attempt to verbally describe the moves: (Where's that video camera when we need it?)
-Start off in closed and lead an 8-count inside turn. Catch the follow on count 4, "stealing" her momentum to propel yourself through a turn under your own arm during counts 5-8. You should end in open, having passed your follow.
-From open, lead a 6-count "thrust pass" (not as exciting as it sounds). Start your follow moving forward on counts 1 and 2, similar to a swingout or regular 6-count pass. Then, in the neighborhood of count 3, "thrust" with your leading hand as if you're challenging someone to a sword fight, let go of your follow and turn over your own right shoulder. The effect SHOULD be that she turns over her left shoulder in a free spin before you catch in open (follow having passed across the lead) in the neighborhood of counts 5 and 6. Catch her left with your right.
-Still in open, lead a Hollywood Pass. It's just like a vanilla 6-count pass, except you should start perpendicular to your follow, not facing her dead on. You can switch hands as she goes by or not. For our purposes last night, we did not.
-Still in open, lead a circular rock step on 1-2 and bring your follow in, as if for a 6-count free spin on 3. On 4, however, catch her wrist from above with your right hand (it should still be free, we've been leading with our left since the thrust pass). Reverse the direction of her spin with your right hand, and stay with her through counts 5 and 6. End back in closed. Rinse and repeat if desired.
Hopefully that's enough description to get you through the moves if you were IN class to see them.
REMINDERS:
Promote, promote, promote, ESPECIALLY to new follows :-) The more people we have, the more awesome stuff we can do.
Swing on This!!! is coming up in just a couple of weeks! April 24th, for 30$, you can get 4 Lindy Hop classes (choose from beginner or experienced levels) and a night of swing dancing. The fun starts at Old Town Ballroom at high noon. Pay at the door.
Benny Goodman Tribute Concert: Saturday, May 1 at the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center (225 West Douglas Avenue) there will be a tribute to Benny Goodman starting at 8:00 PM. Some of your Lindy Bomber teammates will be there to get the dancing started, and it should be a great time!
Upcoming Road Trips: If you feel like dancing in a new scene, join your fellow Lindy Bombers and Wichita Swing Dance Society members on one of our upcoming road trips! A few of us will be heading to Kansas City to dance at their weekly shindig on May 1, and later this summer we'd like to make trips to Tulsa and Emporia. Getting out of town and representing the 'ta help bring new dancers to our events, and it's a great way to test your social dancing ability!
The Rhythm is Jumpin' Sort of like Kansas City's version of our Sunflower Swing, TRIJ is a yearly event that pulls dancers from all over the Midwest. Wichita has a history of being well represented, and we don't plan on breaking that tradition! If you're interested in going, talk to Oscar Hampton at Swing on This!!!, he might just sell you a pass at the early-bird rate.
Sunflower Swing: It's coming up quicker than you think! Registration has already jumped from 40$ to 50$, so if you've been procrastinating, it's time to get on that.
Are you even still reading? I think this is the longest LB blog post ever! Thanks for being a trooper. See you next week for OPEN FLOOR NIGHT!
~Chelsea
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