New to dancing?
Welcome to Copenhagen’s vibrant swing dance community! Whether you’re drawn to the energetic rhythms of lindy hop, the smooth elegance of balboa, or the sultry connection of blues, SwingShoes has been nurturing dancers since 2000. Our passionate local instructors create a welcoming environment where complete beginners transform into confident dancers. No experience needed, no partner required – just bring your enthusiasm and comfortable shoes. Let’s explore everything you need to know to start your swing dance journey!
Which style to pick
Feeling overwhelmed by the choices? Don’t worry – there’s no wrong answer! If you’re unsure, we recommend starting with lindy hop as it’s our most popular style and offers the most progression levels. But whether you choose the athletic energy of lindy hop, intimate connection of blues, or elegant balboa, you’ll find your groove.
Lindy hop
The energetic crown jewel of swing dancing from 1920s Harlem. Features playful swingouts, spins, and aerial moves that capture swing music’s joy. Our 8-level system takes you from basics to advanced charleston and dynamic partnering. Expect bouncy, athletic movements and lots of laughter.
Blues
Intimate and soulful, blues emphasizes connection over flashy moves. This close-embrace dance focuses on subtle movements and emotional expression through music interpretation. Perfect for those preferring grounded, sensual style. Our 2-level system teaches deep musical connection and beautiful partner communication.
Balboa
Born in crowded 1930s California ballrooms, balboa is elegant swing for tight spaces. Features sophisticated close-hold connection with intricate footwork and smooth transitions. Perfect for dancers appreciating subtle technique and refined partnering. Our 3-level progression emphasizes signature “bal-swing” movements and graceful navigation.
Solo jazz
Solo jazz is the foundation of all swing dances – the authentic jazz steps that dancers performed before partnering became popular. This high-energy style focuses on individual expression, rhythm, and classic moves like the Charleston, Shim Sham, and Tranky Doo.
The roles: “Leader” or “Follow”
In swing dancing, we use the terms “leader” and “follow” – not “man” and “woman.” These are simply dance roles that anyone can choose regardless of gender. The leader suggests movements and navigates the dance floor, while the follow interprets these suggestions and adds their own styling. Many dancers enjoy learning both roles, as it deepens understanding of the dance and creates more versatile social dancers. You’re completely free to choose whichever role feels right for you, and you can even switch between them as you develop your skills.
Questions and answers
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a partner? | You can sign you both with and without a partner. Most people sign up without a partner. If you sign up with partner, then you both are guaranteed a spot. If you don’t sign up with a partner, then you’ll initially be put on a waiting list – and we’re approving sign-ups, to ensure a proper balance between follows and leads. Besides… In the classes, we rotate partners often. If you prefer not to, then you can tell the teachers. But we encourage it, both since you learn faster – but also because it’s part of the charm of the dance. |
| Do I need to have rhythm to dance? | Nope. You can easily learn that as we go. |
| Do I need special shoes? | With the wrong shoes, you are more prone to getting injuries. Good shoes let you glide and pivot smoothly – think leather soles or flexible canvas sneakers like Keds. Running shoes can sometimes grip the floor too much, which is bad for your joints, when you twist and turn. Some people dance the first couple of months in their everyday shoes, and consider later, what kind of shoes they like. Others get it sorted before the first dance class. So this is up to you. You can always ask the teachers in your first class. |
| How does a class work? | This varies from teacher(s) to teacher(s). But in generel, this is what happens: The lessons are 1 hour and 15 minutes long. You show up and do a slow warm-up: Often with some focus on musicality. Then the teachers have picked out a figure or a concept or something else, that they will try to convey to the students. It can be taught in many shapes and forms. Usually it entails some explaining at first, then a demo by the teachers, then your try it with someone. Then you ‘high five the partner you danced with’ and rotate partners, and try it some more. The teachers walk around and help people out. |
Still have questions?
Don’t hesitate to reach out! Contact us through our website or chat with our friendly instructors and members at any of our events. We’re here to help you start your swing dance adventure!