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Dance West Coast Swing

Dance West Coast Swing

As flexible as the music you love

Versatile music base

Dance to pop, blues, R'n'B or charts - West Coast Swing adapts to almost any beat

Sleek style

Flowing movements, harmonious figures and creative interplay between leader & follower

International & modern

A global community with festivals, workshops and socials

Experience West Coast Swing

West Coast Swing is a modern couple dance that emerged from classic swing on the US West Coast. It combines elements of swing, Latin and modern dance and is danced linearly in the so-called "slot". This gives the dance an elegant, organised look that still leaves plenty of room for creativity. Its greatest strength: musical versatility - from slow, soulful songs to fast, energetic beats. No wonder he is gaining more and more fans worldwide.

Find West Coast Swing dance classes in your area

Discover the best dance classes for West Coast Swing in your area and get dancing.

What does West Coast Swing sound like?

West Coast Swing is danced to a wide range of modern music, which is what makes it so popular. Common musical styles include pop, R'n'B, blues, funk, soul and even electronic beats. The music usually has a clear, steady beat structure that fits perfectly with the linear style of movement, making West Coast Swing suitable for both quiet, intimate moments and lively, energetic dances.

Experience West Coast Swing music

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West Coast Swing dance steps

The hallmark of West Coast Swing is the linear dance line: leader and follower move in an imaginary line, the "slot". Typical figures are pushes, passes and whips, which are fluidly linked together. The dance is characterised by its suppleness and elegance, but at the same time offers plenty of room for personal creativity. The dance level is easy to medium - the basic steps are easy to learn, but those who want to improvise creatively can develop endlessly.

West Coast Swing is exactly your dance if you...

  • love modern music genres such as pop, R'n'B or blues
  • are looking for a dance that goes with almost any song
  • Enjoy social dancing and an open dance community
  • Want to live out improvisation and musicality
  • want to make connections in a growing dance scene worldwide

FAQ about learning to dance West Coast Swing

  1. No, West Coast Swing is a couple's dance that is particularly suitable for dancers without much previous experience because the basic steps are simple and easy to follow. The dance is danced on a straight line ("slot"), which makes it very easy to follow. The biggest challenge is not in the steps, but in the musicality and creativity that you develop over time. Many dance schools and studios start with slow tempos so that you feel confident and see success quickly.