Learn Solo Jazz

Learn the popular Authentic Jazz moves from the golden era of jazz

Level description

Description

A beginners course to the wonderful world of Solo Jazz dancing, where we will look into the basic Authentic Jazz and Charleston moves. You will learn moves such as Suzy Q, Shorty George, Boogie Back, Boogie Forward, Fall of the Log, Tacky Annie, Bees Knees, Itches etc., and you will learn how to mix them together into short solo routines.

Focus points in Round 3, 2022 (May-June):
This round of Solo Jazz 1 will not feature a specific jazz routine but will instead focus on the fundamentals of Solo Jazz: Basic steps, musicality, self-expression and quality of movement.

Level Guidance

You don’t need any prior dance experience to join this course. But if you have danced swing or another dance before, then that’s of course an advantage.

Description

Solo Jazz 2 is a continuation course for those who already know the basic solo jazz moves. You will be introduced to more advanced moves and variations, as well as transitions between them.

Focus points in Round 3, 2022 (May-June):
Learn the The Tranky Doo – a classic solo jazz dance routine and an absolutely MUST KNOW as a jazz dancer! The choreography is a linedance known and danced around the world as a fun and social happening on the dance floor. Tranky Doo is one of the old routines we have from back in the day and can be seen performed by Al Minns, Pepsi Bethel and Leon James in clips from the Spirit Moves Documentary. Besides learning the social linedance Tranky Doo, we will dig into how to dance WITH each other as solo dancers. Exploring nonverbal communication through movement.

Level Guidance

You need to have completed the Solo Jazz 1 course to be able to join this class. However, it’s strongly recommended to take the Solo Jazz 1 course a couple of times before moving on. You should be comfortable with basic solo jazz moves and ready to explore some more technical variations and syncopated rhythms.

If you come from another school, you should have at least 2 months of solo jazz experience to be able to join this class.

Solo Jazz 3 is a continuation course, where you will have the opportunity to challenge yourself and take your dancing skills to the next level.

Focus points in Round 3, 2022 (Ma-June): 
On this level, Cecilie is excited to be sharing an uptempo choreography created by Josette Wiggan at the JazzRoot Festival 2023. Besides containing funky rhythm’s, spins, classic moves and loads of energy, the choreography is also based on movements from the legendary dancers: Norma Millers, Daisy Richardson and Marble Lee – you are in for a treat! Besides learning the amazing choreography put together by Josette Wiggan, we will also dig into nonverbal communication through movement and how to dance WITH each other as solo dancers.

Level Guidance

You need to have completed the Solo Jazz 2 course to be able to join this class. However, it’s strongly recommended to take the Solo Jazz 2 course a couple of times before moving on. You should be comfortable with basic solo jazz moves and ready to explore some more technical variations and syncopated rhythms. 

If you come from another school, you should have at least 6 months of solo jazz experience to be able to join this class.

Next round of classes
6th of March – 4th of May
Next round of classes
Dates

After the summer break

(exact dates will be announced soon)

Registration and Prices

What is Solo Jazz?

Solo jazz, also called Vernacular Jazz or Authentic Jazz is often referred to as dancing without a partner, as opposed to dancing with a partner (as traditionally done in i.e. lindy hop, shag and blues). The dance itself has had many influences, mainly from dances invented and danced from the 1920’s – 1950’s: from cakewalks to Charleston, Lindy Hop, Blues and beyond.

Classes will focus on increasing your body awareness, improving quality of movement while appreciating musicality and rhythm. Working on your solo movements goes a great way towards improving your partnered dancing.

Recommended shoes for Solo Jazz

Flat shoes will be the best choice, preferably with a bit slidey sole and with a padded/cushioned insole, for better comfort. For beginners, regular sneakers would often be enough (just check if you can slide and turn in them without getting stuck or making a squeak sound on the floor).

If you want to invest in proper dance shoes,
try one of these brands:

They are all based in  Europe, and they all have options for women and men.

Open Practice

Come and practice material from your class during Open Practice. It’s free  and open for everyone! Consider bringing a partner to dance with though. 

Swing Music

We have collected some of our favorite swing  songs, which are good for  practicing, and we put them together in a Spotify playlist 

Teachers

See our full teachers team consisting of almost 40 teachers, all very passionate and eager to share their knowledge with you!