Introduction to Swing Dance DTS 200

Section M002, Class Number 44846

Course Syllabus

Spring 2010

 

Instructor:      Steven Ryan – stevenryan@aol.com, 315-434-9503  

Mondays

Class times: 7:00 - 8:30 PM  
Gymnasium, fencing room

 

This course is designed for those who have no dance experience as well as for those who have done other styles of dance.  The course will begin with an overview of different genres under the umbrella of swing.  East coast swing, aka jitterbug, will be the first dance to be introduced as it is a versatile dance which is easy to learn. Lindy hop, Latin hustle and west coast swing will be the other dances taught. Each dance will be introduced in its historic and musical context. Fundamentals, technique and musicality will be emphasized. Guest instructors may be invited to add to the variety of teaching styles.

Course Outcomes

Students who complete this course will know the historical background and development of the various swing dance genres, and be able to dance with confidence to a broad range of music, including big band, jazz, rock n roll, rhythm and blues, blues, and contemporary.

Topics

Unit 1.                East Coast Swing & Lindy Hop

Unit 2.                Latin Hustle

Unit 3.                West Coast Swing

Instructor

Steve Ryan is a professional dancer who has been dancing for more than 25 years, and has won numerous dance competitions throughout that time in jazz, theatre arts, hustle and west coast swing. He also won a full scholarship to the studios of Alvin Ailey in NYC. He is the only advanced male swing dancer in area. Recently he has won first places in advanced WCS at The Big Apple Country Dance Festival & the World Hustle Dance Championship both in 2005. He also danced a feature role in the Sleeping Beauty Ballet in February 2005. He has choreographed many swing dance routines that were performed by class members at local dances and at the Syracuse Symphony. He spent 7 months in 2003 training in Los Angeles with national champions. He’s a firm believer in strong technique. He is also a founder of The Syracuse Swing Dance Society. He has been teaching swing for 15 years and stays current by attending and competing at National Events.