Here is collection of questions we are often asked, or just good information to know. Click on the question to drop down to that section. Please read through them. If you have any additional questions, you are welcome to email us: learn@lindyhopindia.com

General FAQs

Lindy Hop FAQs

Argentine Tango FAQs

General FAQs

How long do these dances take to learn?
This depends greatly on your dedication to them. Both Lindy Hop and Tango are very involved art forms, and rich in their own respect. To be able just to dance on a night out can take anywhere from a month to 3 months. To call yourself an advanced dancer in either style might be more along the lines of 5 to 6 years.

Why do you call them 'Authentic American Dance styles'?
The term 'Authentic' refers to the time period. What we teach are the modern representations of art forms created in the early 1900's. While the dances have evolved over time, the roots are still based in the original dances.

Do I need a partner?
Having a partner is to your advantage in that you'll be able to practice steps and technique outside of class, but during the class sessions we will be rotating partners, and you don't need to come with someone.

Why do we rotate?
Lindy Hop and Tango are social dances, so you'll be dancing with and meeting many people, and it is important to gain the skills to dance with anyone. If you've come with a partner and want to stay with them throughout the course please do inform your instructor.

I have danced other social dances and am pretty good, do I need to start as a beginner?
Yes. The only way to truly master a dance is to properly understand the basics. Without a good foundation nothing can stand. Having a strong background in other dances will help you grasp what we teach in the beginning classes.

What should I wear to class?
Wear clothing that make you feel like yourself. Dancing is about self-expression, so when you are learning, wear clothes that make you feel good. (But you should be able to move in them too!)

What should I wear to the parties?
These dances are as much a way of movement as a way of life. Dressing up a bit for the parties is always encouraged!

A word about hygiene ;)
As we'll be dancing with a variety of people, and in close-quarters, it is important to think about how others may find you. Throw on some deodorant or perfume, perhaps a fresh shirt and brush your teeth!

What is your single class drop-in policy?
Anyone is welcome on the first day of class. If you just want to try the first class out and see what you think it will cost Rs. 400 (provided there is room). If you decide to stick with it for the rest of the series thereafter, the rate will be adjusted to Rs. 300 per session. New students may not come after the 2nd day of a series however, as too much material will have been covered.

Describe a typical class.
We'll always begin with a warm up to get into the groove of the class. These will be individual exercises and dance moves to get your body ready to dance. Then we will move into partnering. We'll review the previous week first (assuming there was one!), then progress into new concepts in the dance. It may be moves, connection, musicality, technique, or something completely different depending on the theme of the class. In the end of the class we'll have a song or two to practice what you've learned and develop the concepts further.

Are these dances truly international?
Yes. Nearly every major city in the world has either a Lindy Hop, or Argentine Tango scene, and often both. There are countless festivals and events happening each year. And what is most beautiful is that once you learn the language of these dances, you can dance with anyone in the world who also dances the language. The style (or accent) may be a bit different, but you are still bound to meet some incredible people, no matter what the location.

How do I register for class?
Go to the registration page here!


Lindy Hop FAQs

What is Lindy Hop?
Lindy Hop is a dance art form inspired by the Jazz, Tap, Charleston, Black Bottom and other dance traditions of the early 1900's, inspired by the Big Band swing movement of the day. It is a partner dance that is known for its charm, elegance, raw rhythms, dynamic movement and party-like atmosphere.

Do I need to back-flip over my partner to learn this dance?
NOT at all!!! Air steps are exclusively for competitions and performances... There are no air steps in social Lindy Hop. However there will be Air Step Classes offered for those who are interested.

What kind of shoes should I wear?
For Lindy Hop, leather soled dress shoes are great, but comfortable sneakers will do fine. I don't recommend heels for women, as they make the kind of balance you will need in Lindy Hop very difficult.

What kind of music is Lindy Hop danced to?
Big Band Jazz and music from the Swing Era. Funk, Soul, Rock and Roll, and even Hip-hop. (Just about anything with an 8-count rhythm!)

 

Argentine Tango FAQs

What is Argentine Tango?
Elegant, passionate, and sublime, Argentine Tango has captured the world's imagination as one of its most beautiful partner dances. It is an improvised dance, in which the strength of the connection with your partner is determined by the strength of your will to stay together, and move as one.

What kind of shoes should I wear?
Leather or Suede soled dress shoes are the best for men. For Women, heels are recommended to help keep you in the right position.

What kind of music is Argentine Tango danced to?
Tango can be danced to nearly anything that moves you. At the milongas and in classes we'll hear mostly traditional Argentine Tango music from the golden age of tango music form the early to mid 1900's. But we'll also play modern tango, neo-tango, and a surprising amount of other genres that inspire tango.