Swing Classes in South Portland, Maine

About Swing

Swing dance is an exuberant American family of partner dances that emerged from African American dance and music culture in the 1920s and flourished through the big band era of the 1930s and 40s. The family includes Lindy Hop — born in Harlem's legendary Savoy Ballroom and considered the original swing dance — East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Balboa, Collegiate Shag, Blues dancing, and Charleston, each with its own distinct character, community, and musical relationship. Characterized by a buoyant syncopated connection to jazz and contemporary music, playful improvisation between partners, and a joyful social energy that has maintained vibrant worldwide communities for nearly a century, Swing dancing is simultaneously athletic, musical, and deeply social. West Coast Swing in particular has adapted to contemporary pop, R&B, and country music, making it one of the most versatile and rapidly growing social dance communities in the United States. Solo students are welcomed at all Swing group classes. Find Swing dance classes near you.