The following statement is to be used for guidance when “Swing” is the topic.It is not meant as an all encompassing definition. Loosely stated, it allows for as much growth and creative freedoms as possible.We must embrace the Art of Swing and encourage the growth of its future.

Statement of Swing:

The Foundation of Swing is recognized primarily by "6-Beat" Patterns and "8-Beat" Whips that incorporate a wide variety of rhythms. The "6-Beat" patterns include, but are not limited to, Passes, Push Breaks, Open-to-Closed, and Closed-to-Open.

Q:

Don’t you mean West Coast Swing?

A:

No. All forms of Swing;  i.e. Carolina Shag, East Coast, Lindy, West Coast, Jitterbug, Push, Imperial, etc. The growth of Swing, which has led to these recognizable forms, come from the same roots; from the same foundation. The growth of Swing from here forward must also come from these roots. If the roots are unrecognizable, the dance must be recognized as something other than swing.

Q:

Does Swing Require Triples?

A:

No, Triples are common in Swing, but are not a required rhythm. Lindy is commonly danced using tap steps and doubles. West Coast Swing “could” be danced using only doubles. Now, using only doubles may be poor quality West Coast Swing, but it would be recognized as Swing, none-the-less. Footwork and rhythm patterns help to determine poor quality swing from high quality swing. Footwork is not as useful when recognizing the difference between swing and non-swing dancing.

Q:

Are Only 6-Beat Passes and 8-Beat Whips considered Swing?

A:

No.  Extending patterns by 2 or 4 beats is often used as a form of self-expression. However, to extend a pattern beyond 4 beats is to enter into the territory of individual judgment. Swing does not disregard 16 beat patterns, nor does swing, necessarily, recognize them. Also, it is very difficult to “compress” patterns without losing the essence of swing.

Q:

I just learned a 16 beat Underarm Turn (or 20 Beat Tunnel Wrap) in a workshop. Is that considered Swing?

A:

We cannot attempt, nor would we want to attempt, to categorize every possible pattern or variation as swing/non-swing. We simply look for a connection to the roots/foundation of Swing. We also let our judges do what they are trained to do; recognize this foundation (or lack of) and make a quality judgment.

Q:

Can other dance such as Hip-Hop, Latin, Hustle, etc... be used in swing?

A:

Absolutely, with considerations. It is quite common to allow other disciplines to influence the artistic expression of Swing Dancing. We often see influences from Hip-Hop, Latin, and even karate, or hula. However, it is important that the roots of Swing still be recognizable. Self-expression must not overwhelm the structure of the dance. To be considered Swing, it must have swing structure, that incorporates a Hip-Hop, Latin, ... influence.

Q:

Isn’t our West Coast Swing Community getting a bit restrictive?

A:

No, Quite the contrary. It is important to “keep it Swing”, yet avoid a stifling of self-expression and creativity. We see this in 2 ways: First, swing is inherently interpretive. There is freedom within every pattern for personal self expression. This expression may arise through footwork, or body stylings, or partner reactions, etc... Second, our community's competition rules allow 1/2 of our swing routines to be something other than swing dancing. There is ample room for artistic expression within our competion rules.

Q:

Isn’t the Choreographed Swing Routines being performed today, just an evolvement of Swing Dancing?

A:

In some case Yes and in other cases No. A good Swing routine combines self-expression to the music within a strong Swing Foundation. A non-swing routine focuses on the structure of the music at the expense of the structure of the dance

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