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West Coast Swing - Westchester, NY

West Coast Swing is a modern swing dance style spreading rapidly around the world. This improvisational partner dance offers freedom of expression for leaders and followers alike. Its adaptability extends to various musical genres, including R&B, pop, jazz, and hip hop.

Our West Coast Swing classes and events provide a friendly and welcoming environment. Join us on the dance floor to explore this dynamic dance form!

Claim Intro Offer

Get 50% savings on a private lesson and two classes or socials!

Beginner Classes

Thu, Apr 3 • 7 PM

Westchester Westies – Basics & Beyond

Level 1 • Joe Miller

A beginner-friendly level-adaptive class focused on developing dance concepts within the basic figures of West Coast Swing.

Thu, Apr 10 • 7 PM

Westchester Westies – Basics & Beyond

Level 1 • Joe Miller

A beginner-friendly level-adaptive class focused on developing dance concepts within the basic figures of West Coast Swing.

Thu, Apr 17 • 7 PM

Westchester Westies – Basics & Beyond

Level 1 • Joe Miller

A beginner-friendly level-adaptive class focused on developing dance concepts within the basic figures of West Coast Swing.

Socials

Sun, Apr 13 • 5 PM

Soul Sunday

NYC

Fri, Apr 11 • 8:30 PM

West Coast Swing Instructors

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WST West Coast Swing

Get 50% Savings On Our Intro Package

Try a private lesson and two socials or classes, a $200 value, for just $99! Good for individuals or couples. New clients only.

Questions? Contact us or call +1-212-500-1064

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Questions about West Coast Swing

What is the difference between East Coast Swing and West Coast Swing?

1 Answer

West Coast Swing is a modern evolution of swing dance, tracing its roots to Lindy Hop and incorporating elements from various regional styles. East Coast Swing was developed in ballroom dance studios to simplify Lindy Hop moves for beginners. Despite their names, the two styles have distinct techniques and are not directly comparable.

Danznik Studios

Oct 14, 2024

Is West Coast Swing hard to learn?

1 Answer

West Coast Swing can be a bit challenging due to its improvisational nature, the combination of 6-count and 8-count patterns, and its adaptability to various musical genres. Often called a "dancer's dance," it may seem daunting. However, beginners shouldn't be deterred; a clear progression of figures makes getting started approachable.

Danznik Studios

Oct 14, 2024

What is the difference between swing dancing and West Coast Swing?

1 Answer

Swing dancing refers to a family of styles dating back to the 1920s and 1930s. West Coast Swing is a modern member of this family, developed over decades by incorporating elements from styles like Lindy Hop, Dallas Push, Houston Whip and Carolina Shag. Rather than being separate, West Coast Swing is part of the broader swing dance tradition.

Danznik Studios

Oct 13, 2024

What are the basics of West Coast Swing?

1 Answer

West Coast Swing's basics are pushes, passes and whips. In beginner classes, you'll focus on the sugar push and two pass variations: left-side pass and right-side pass (also called underarm turn). As it's an improvisational dance, connecting with your partner through stretch and compression is equally important.

Danznik Studios

Oct 13, 2024

What defines West Coast Swing?

1 Answer

West Coast Swing is defined by its versatility across musical genres—from hip hop and blues to swing and pop. Characterized by an elastic quality, it allows for highly improvisational interaction between leader and follower. A significant social dance culture underscores its emphasis on connection and community.

Danznik Studios

Oct 13, 2024

Is West Coast Swing 6 or 8?

1 Answer

West Coast Swing utilizes both 6-count and 8-count patterns, all danced to music in 4/4 time signature. The 6-count patterns consist of basic passes and pushes, whereas 8-count patterns include moves like the whip. This variety allows the dance significant flexibility and room for improvisation.

Danznik Studios

Oct 13, 2024

What is the difference between Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing?

1 Answer

Both Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing are swing dances with global communities. Lindy Hop originated in the African-American community of 1930s Harlem, danced to jazz and blues. West Coast Swing evolved over decades, resurging in the '80s and '90s, adapting to modern music genres at slower tempos.

Danznik Studios

Oct 14, 2024