So, you’ve mastered the basics of Lindy Hop—eight-counts, swingouts, and maybe even a few fancy moves. Congratulations! You’re officially an intermediate Lindy Hopper. But now what? How do you take your dancing to the next level and truly thrive in this vibrant, ever-evolving dance community?
1. Refine Your Fundamentals
It might sound counterintuitive, but the key to advancing as an intermediate dancer is to go back to the basics. While you’ve already got the foundational moves down, it’s time to focus on quality over quantity. Work on your posture, connection, and timing. Are you leading or following with clarity and precision? Are you staying relaxed and grounded? These small tweaks can make a world of difference in your dancing.
2. Embrace Musicality
One of the most exciting aspects of Lindy Hop is its deep connection to the music. As an intermediate dancer, it’s time to dive deeper into musicality. Start by listening to a wider range of jazz music—from classic swing tunes to modern interpretations. Pay attention to the rhythm, phrasing, and nuances of the music. How can you incorporate these elements into your dancing? Experiment with adding accents, pauses, or even improvised movements that respond to the music.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
As an intermediate dancer, you’ve probably been to your fair share of social dances and workshops. But to truly thrive, you need to practice intentionally. Set aside time to work on specific skills, whether it’s improving your turns, refining your footwork, or experimenting with new moves. Solo practice is also a game-changer—it allows you to focus on your own technique without the pressure of a partner.
4. Seek Feedback and Learn from Others
One of the best ways to grow as a dancer is to seek feedback from more experienced dancers. Attend classes or private lessons with instructors who can give you constructive criticism and help you identify areas for improvement. Additionally, don’t be afraid to learn from your peers. Watch other intermediate dancers and pick up tips and tricks from their style and technique.
5. Push Your Comfort Zone
Intermediate Lindy Hoppers often find themselves stuck in a rut, sticking to the same moves and routines. To break through this plateau, you need to push your comfort zone. Try attending a jam circle, where you can practice leading or following new moves with different partners. Or, challenge yourself by attending a workshop focused on advanced techniques. The more you step outside your comfort zone, the more you’ll grow as a dancer.
6. Build a Community
Lindy Hop is as much about the community as it is about the dance itself. As an intermediate dancer, it’s important to build meaningful connections within the scene. Attend local events, join dance groups, or even start your own practice group. The more you engage with the community, the more opportunities you’ll have to learn, grow, and inspire others.
7. Stay Inspired
Finally, don’t forget to stay inspired. Follow Lindy Hop influencers on social media, watch vintage clips of legendary dancers, or attend performances by professional troupes. Inspiration can come from anywhere—a new song, a cool move, or even a conversation with a fellow dancer. Keep your passion alive, and you’ll continue to thrive as an intermediate Lindy Hopper.
Remember, the journey to becoming a great Lindy Hopper is a marathon, not a sprint. By focusing on your fundamentals, embracing musicality, and pushing your comfort zone, you’ll unlock the next level of your dancing. So, get out there, swing out, and keep thriving!
