Introduction to East Coast Swing & Lindy Hop Dance DTS 200

Section M004, Class Number 60554

Course Syllabus

Spring 2012

 

Instructor:      Steven Ryan – stevenryan@aol.com, 315-729-6763, website, steveryandance.com  

Day: Thursday. Class times:  5:00 - 6:10 PM. Building: Woman's building. Class venue: Dance studio room 211. Dates: January 19 - March 1, 2012 (7 weeks)

 

Course Description:

This course is designed for those who have no dance experience as well as for those who have done other styles of dance.  The course will begin with an overview of different genres under the umbrella of swing.  East coast swing, aka jitterbug, will be the first dance to be introduced as it is a versatile dance which is easy to learn. Lindy hop, is a dance form the 1930's. Each dance will be introduced in its historic and musical context. Fundamentals, technique and musicality will be emphasized. Guest instructors may be invited to add to the variety of teaching styles.

Course Outcomes:

Students who complete this course will know the historical background and development of the various swing dance genres, and be able to dance with confidence to a broad range of music, including big band, jazz, and, rock n roll.

Topics

Unit 1.                East Coast Swing  

Unit 2.                Lindy Hop

 

Assignment:

Write a two page paper, doubled space, on the history of swing dancing. Due date: February 16, 2012

 

Final Exam: Date March 3, 2012

Instructor:

Steve Ryan is a professional dancer who has been dancing for more than 25 years, and has won numerous dance competitions throughout that time in jazz, theatre arts, hustle and west coast swing. He also won a full scholarship to the studios of Alvin Ailey in NYC. He is also a founder of The Syracuse Swing Dance Society. He has been teaching swing for 20 years and stays current by attending and competing at National Dance Event. Most recently, he won the local edition of Dancing with the Stars in Syracuse in April 2010.