FREE OPTIONS
Family friendly

Online Workshop: Swing Music – Roots to Revival

By Cape Town Swing https://capetownswing.co.za

Mon Mar 17, 19:00 - Mon Mar 17, 20:30

Event is online

ABOUT

Join us for an immersive online workshop exploring the heartbeat of swing dancing—its music! Whether you're a seasoned dancer, an aspiring DJ, or just a lover of swing tunes, this session will deepen your appreciation of the rich, rhythmic world of swing music.


  • Date & Time: Monday 17 March, 7-8:30 pm
  • Location: Online (link provided upon registration)
  • Cost: Free / Donation-based


What You’ll Learn:

  • The Foundations of Swing: Discover how swing music evolved from 1920s jazz to dominate the 1930s-40s dance halls, with key figures like Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Chick Webb and many more.
  • Swing Era Styles: Explore the unique sounds of big band swing vs. small group swing, including signature instrumentation and improvisation techniques.
  • Subgenres & Influences: Dive into New Orleans "hot jazz," early vocal jazz, jump blues, jazz manouche and South African swing.
  • Essential Elements: Break down the elusive "swing feel"—what makes a song groove and inspire movement.
  • The DJ’s Role: Understand how music selection shapes the dance experience and enhances musicality.
  • Building Your Collection: Get tips on discovering and organising music, plus a guide to Cape Town Swing’s curated playlists.
  • Practical Skills: Learn to identify tempos, recognise song structures, and build dynamic dance playlists.


Workshop Highlights:

  • Listening exercises to sharpen your ear for swing rhythms.
  • Discussions on what makes a song truly “danceable” for Lindy Hop.
  • Insights into selecting music that excites dancers and expands their movement vocabulary.
  • A handpicked “starter pack” of must-know swing tracks to kickstart your musical journey.


Why This Workshop Matters:

  • Enhance Your Dancing: Connect with the music on a deeper level, making your movement more expressive and intuitive.
  • Support the Scene: Contribute to a thriving dance community with a shared love and understanding of Swing Era music.
  • Elevate the Music: Help ensure that swing DJs play tracks with that irresistible juicy fire that fuels the dance floor!


Ready to swing? Sign up now!