Dance Evolution and Continuing Education
By Lorraine Jacquard

Like any other sport, dance evolves, the bar gets higher, and what was once considered new and radical become old hat, passé, stale. Examples of that are the Swing dances. East Coast Swing started out in the 30’s as ‘jitterbug’ and now has many variations like Lindy Hop, triple step, single step, the shag and more. West Coast Swing has become more subtle, with the dancers looking almost like they’re gliding on skates, and the music is broadening from rhythm and blues to include techno and hip hop beats. Today’s Hustle is certainly different than the Hustle of the ‘70’s.

For dance enthusiasts that means continuing education. With continuing education, dancers can incorporate the newest steps, style and technique, and keep their repertoire fresh and fun. For some folks, it’s easy to pick up a new step, a new concept, right there on the dance floor, but for most, the best way to keep up with the latest steps and trends is by taking lessons. Private instruction is the quickest way to get there but group classes (series or drop in) and workshops are also important tools that should not be underestimated. Not only will the dancer add new moves, new style, new technique, but groups and workshops give dancers the opportunity to practice and perfect their dancing, add their own style or interpretation and of course, improve their dancing by learning in a “safe” environment where the objective is to learn and improve.

I’m always surprised when dancers show up at dance studios after the lessons. It’s my opinion that these dancers are missing out for several reasons. Even though I teach dance, I have so much still to learn. I know my dancing, and therefore my teaching, has room for improvement, that something new may have come along, and that I want to be current with the latest steps and trends. That’s why I still attend group classes and workshops taught by other teachers, at the Palomar Ballroom and other dance studios in the bay area. If you are staying away from lessons because you feel that you already know enough, you may just be missing out on new trends, new ideas, new music, and the opportunity to meet and dance with new partners. You might also miss out on different teaching styles that may be just what you need to bring something new and fresh to your dancing.

If you’re like me, and want to stay au courant in your dancing, continue your education in any way you can. Take private lessons, a series class, drop in on some group classes, do some workshops. The time and relatively minor financial investment will pay off big time in your skill and enjoyment.

Lorraine Jacquard is an instructor a the Palomar Ballroom. Please contact the ballroom to arrange private lessons if you are interested.