The Jive got its start during the energetic yet turbulent times of WWII. It's a tamed-down version of wild, frenetic dances like the Jitterbug and Lindy Hop.
Having been involved in thousands of group classes over the past 10 years, we found that the Jive was difficult for beginners to learn because of the quick footwork involved. Rather than jumping right into triple rhythm, our program, which has proven to be highly successful, teaches this dance in two phases. First, we cover all the step patterns in Single-Rhythm Jive, which is fairly slow and easy to learn. Then we upgrade those figures you already know with Triple Rhythm. This not only makes it easier to grasp everything, but it gives you a fallback dance you can use when the music is too fast. You get two dances for the price of one!
In this video dance class that totals 90 minutes of instruction, you'll learn the basic elements of Jive with a common group of figures that you can use to look great in any social dance setting. We give you enough technique that you can look polished quite easily.
Curriculum
This course is one and a half hours long. The program is broken into multiple parts to help make it easy for you to work on the individual figures.
Introduction (length 13:10)
In this lesson we cover the music of Jive, the unique Jive hold, and the basic step pattern for Single Rhythm Jive. You'll also learn some of the things to watch out for so that you avoid common mistakes.
The Throwaway (length 10:02)
This lesson covers the Throwaway.
The Lady’s Underarm Turn (length 10:09)
One of the staple figures in the Jive is the Lady’s Underarm Turn, officially referred to by the unoriginal name "Change of Place from Right to Left" and "Change of Place from left to Right."
The Change of Hands Behind the Back (length 10:24)
We cover this figure and how to lead it. You'll also learn a fun variation!
Jive Walks (length 10:31)
In this lesson you'll learn the Jive Walks, and some technique to look good and avoid common problems. Did you know that "Jive" used to mean "Fake" and the Jive Walks were meant to describe fake walking? It's true!
The Stop and Go (length19:53)
This lesson covers a more advanced figure called the Stop and Go. You'll also learn three versions of lady's arm styling for this figure.
Triple Rhythm Jive (length 20:45)
In our final lesson, we show you Triple Rhythm technique and how to perform all the figures that have been covered, but now in Triple Rhythm foot pattern. We also show why you shouldn't throw away your knowledge of Single Rhythm Jive, as it can be very useful in common situations.
Preview the course
This video program is available to all Delta Dance members. Want to know what the program looks like before you commit? Watch a brief 4-minute free preview from the Introduction video.
Members-Only Content
This content is available to Delta Dance members only. Membership grants you access to special content, our members-only videos, and downloadable choreography and technical guides. You may cancel at any time.
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