So, you’ve mastered the basics of Lindy Hop, nailed your swing-outs, and feel confident on the social dance floor. Now, you’re ready to take your dancing to the next level. Transitioning from intermediate to advanced Lindy Hop is an exciting journey, but it requires focus, practice, and a willingness to dive deeper into the nuances of the dance. Here are some key moves and techniques to help you level up your Lindy Hop game.
1. Refine Your Swing-Out
The swing-out is the cornerstone of Lindy Hop, and even at an advanced level, there’s always room for improvement. Focus on:
- Connection: Pay attention to the elasticity and responsiveness in your connection with your partner. A great swing-out feels like a conversation.
- Timing: Experiment with syncopations and variations in timing to add musicality to your swing-out.
- Body Movement: Incorporate more body isolations, pulse, and stretch to make your swing-out look and feel dynamic.
2. Master the Texas Tommy
The Texas Tommy is a classic Lindy Hop move that adds flair and complexity to your repertoire. It involves a wrap-and-release motion that can be styled in countless ways. Practice:
- Clean Execution: Ensure the wrap is smooth and the release is timed perfectly with the music.
- Styling: Add your own personality with variations like a kick ball change or a swivel during the wrap.
3. Explore Air Steps (With Caution!)
Air steps are iconic in Lindy Hop, but they require trust, technique, and safety. Start with simpler aerials like the Flying Charleston or Side-by-Side Jump before progressing to more advanced moves like the Over-the-Back or Around-the-World. Always practice with a trusted partner and a spotter if possible.
4. Work on Your Charleston Variations
Charleston is a fundamental part of Lindy Hop, and advanced dancers often incorporate creative variations. Try:
- Hand-to-Hand Charleston: Add syncopations or change the rhythm to make it more dynamic.
- Reverse Charleston: Practice moving backward with the same precision as forward.
- Tandem Charleston: Perfect your coordination with your partner for seamless transitions.
5. Incorporate More Musicality
Advanced Lindy Hop is all about dancing to the music, not just the beat. Start listening closely to the structure of jazz songs and experiment with:
- Hits and Breaks: Accent specific notes or pauses in the music with your movements.
- Phrasing: Align your moves with the 8-count or 32-count phrases of the song.
- Improvisation: Let the music guide your steps and styling, rather than relying on pre-planned patterns.
6. Develop Your Solo Jazz Vocabulary
Solo jazz is a fantastic way to improve your Lindy Hop. It enhances your rhythm, creativity, and body awareness. Learn moves like the Shorty George, Suzy Q, and Fall Off the Log, and incorporate them into your partner dancing.
7. Practice Transitions and Flow
Advanced dancers make their moves look effortless by focusing on transitions. Work on:
- Seamless Transitions: Practice moving smoothly between moves without breaking the flow.
- Footwork Variations: Experiment with different footwork patterns to keep your dancing fresh and unpredictable.
8. Strengthen Your Connection with Your Partner
At an advanced level, connection becomes even more important. Focus on:
- Lead and Follow Dynamics: Explore subtle weight shifts, tension changes, and non-verbal communication.
- Adaptability: Learn to adjust your dancing to different partners and styles.
9. Attend Workshops and Social Dances
One of the best ways to improve is by learning from experienced instructors and dancing with a variety of partners. Attend workshops, take private lessons, and immerse yourself in the Lindy Hop community.
10. Have Fun and Be Patient
Finally, remember that Lindy Hop is about joy and expression. Don’t get discouraged if progress feels slow—advanced dancing takes time. Keep practicing, stay curious, and most importantly, enjoy the journey!
By focusing on these key moves and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an advanced Lindy Hopper. Happy dancing!
