THE TLP FAQ

If you have any more questions you would like answered (or if you disagree with one of our answers), please ask us!
info@thelindyproject.com

So why do you guys teach that way?

A number of reasons, actually...

1) We really want you to train your eyes and to get used to moving your body. When you start actively watching your instructors and picking up what they are doing, not only can we move through material much faster, but you can internalize the movement and make it appropriate for your body. If your instructors have to explain put your left foot at a 45 degree angle to your partner and twist gently, it will take forever, and your body won't feel comfortable.

2) It's the vintage way. Back in the day, there were no teachers or classes. People went out there, watched and stole moves from everyone. They probably weren't any good at it at first, but it was necessary to learn the dance. Eventually, they were able to pick up a move from anyone on the floor by watching it twice.

3) It helps you steal and integrate even MORE! If you become an active watcher, not only will you be able to learn moves from lindy hop, but you will be able to lift moves from dances you don't even know like waltz or tango or hip hop or clogging and incorporate those into your lindy.

I can't get anyone in class to lead / follow me properly. What do I do?

Dancing is a partnership, and if someone isn't leading / following you properly, it's only partially them. One of the tasks of being able to dance with everyone is being able to tailor your style of communication to the person you're dancing with. Leads, figure out how you can position yourself to really get your message across to your follow. Follows, really try to match his lead as much as possible (including bounce, arm tension, posture, etc). And both of you, for pity's sake, go all out!

How to become FABULOUS in 5 steps:

1. Take Lindy Hop lessons from The Lindy Project.
2. Go out social dancing – a lot.
3. Take private lessons & attend workshops.
4. Make friends in the Lindy community or drag the friends you already have into this scene. Everything from lessons to social dances to practicing steps in your living room is more fun when you have a connection to the people you're with.
5. Have fun! No, really... you will always be your harshest critic.
2. Go out social dancing – again.

How do I make the most from my in-class experience?

• Don't wait until the teacher explains everything. Be an active learner and try to figure it out with your eyes.
• When you run through a sequence, do it all out so the instructor can really see what you're capable of.
• Try not to look at the instructor as you're doing it because it will contort your frame and throw off your balence.
• Whenever the instructor gives a tip for the class, assume he's directing it at you.
• Whenever your partner is doing something wrong, see if it is actually something you're doing.
• Remember to approach class with politeness and decorum.
• Come to class on time (no, really).