Thank you Brian B. from West Coast Swing Online for writing this. Good Stuff ! 

 There are a lot of things that separate good dancers from poor dancers and great dancers from good dancers. Background, physical talents and years in the game are all factors that come into play. As a teacher I live in a world  where I’m consumed by getting the most out of what I have without making excuses. That being said here are 10 things that you can and should be doing if you want to take your West Coast Swing dancing to the next level.

West coast swing is generally regarded as one of the most challenging social dances to learn. The purpose of this post is to explore some of the reasons why WCS can be challenging in order to help dancers understand why learning WCS can be difficult. Obviously, I believe that west coast is well worth the challenge, but it’s also worth acknowledging that this is a demanding dance, and that it’s natural to have moments of frustration.

 

What is West Coast Swing? 

 

West coast swing, or WCS, is a popular form of swing dancing that has spread from the US across the world. Part of the appeal of WCS is that it is an adaptable dance; it can be danced to a variety of musical styles and tempos, from 1940s big band swing and 60s soul to contemporary/top 40, hiphop, and of course the blues. In addition, the dance itself creates room for improvisation and interaction between the partners. Combine these elements with theethos

As defined by the NASDE (National Association of Swing Dance Events)

 

 

 

I am often asked what do I need to do or know to do well  in a Jack and Jill or Strictly Swing ? 

 

Another loaded question !

 

First it depends on the level in which you are trying to compete.

Second is what part of the country or world or where are you going to be dancing or competing.

 

Requirements to do well for each level can change with every different panel of judges and sometimes even with the same panel of judges it can be different from one day to the next.

Each event judge has their own perception and expectation of what makes good west coast swing or dancing in general.

I am often asked which is the most important for west coast swing or dancing in general.. is it technique, musicality, showmanship, timing or many other related possibilities ? my reply is wow !! that's a loaded question !

Mainly because all the other elements I was asked to compare technique to which are musicality, showmanship and timing..are all comprised of specific techniques of their own which make them useful..

So for me I strongly believe that technique has to be the obvious answer to the question !

I speak of these things often in private lessons as well as group classes and workshops. But here it is again summed up clearly in an article by a friend and colleague Mr. Micheal Kiehm. Enjoy and learn ! I am always available for private lessons to help you with this.

 

byMichael Kiehmon Monday, January 16, 2012 at 12:33am

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This weeks topic is "conversing thru connection"

You need the following traits to be considered an advanced dancer in any style of dance.

Excellent technique (footwork, lead/follow)

I have had similar conversations in private lessons I was teaching with different students thru the years....Thank you Michael Kiehm for summerizing it so nicely. 

 

"Musicality" by Michael Kiehm (Starlight Dance-San Diego, California)

Everyone wants to considered "musically gifted", but very few can claim ownership of this title.

It's as though every move they make seems choreographed to the song, even if they've never heard the song before!

Well, for those gifted in this concept, you may want to read this as "light reading" and please, please, just appreciate your skill.