Top 5 Questions from West Coast Swing Social Dancers
At ShaneKeriDance, we often receive questions from aspiring and seasoned West Coast Swing (WCS) dancers. Below, we’ve shared some actual emails and our responses to help "want-to-be" dancers gain insight into making their Modern West Coast Swing journey a successful one.
Email:
“I attended a weekend West Coast Swing workshop with some amazing pros. The dance is captivating and musical—the most inspiring style I’ve ever seen! However, I struggled with direction and finding the beat for the rhythms. I ended up skipping the second workshop to observe and learn more, but I’m still stuck. Help!”
Response:
Don’t be disheartened! It takes time to feel comfortable with a new skill. Rhythm and timing improve with practice. Start with simple drills to lock in your footwork and musicality. Check out our Free Online Videos to practice at home before your next class:
These resources will help you stay on time and gain confidence!
Email:
“West Coast Swing dancers look so polished, and I feel like I’ll never measure up. But thanks to ShaneKeriDance, I’ve started to improve. I’ve even competed in Jack & Jill events and performed in ProAm routines. I never imagined I could do this, but I’m still nervous sometimes. What’s the secret?”
Response:
Everyone feels intimidated at first! The key is to embrace being a beginner. Progress comes with patience and enjoying the learning journey. Your growth so far is amazing—keep at it!
For extra help, consider private lessons or online sessions to refine your skills. Check out our YouTube and Instagram Channels for more inspiration and tips:
Email:
“My biggest frustration is forgetting new moves after I learn them. I feel like I have a memory problem, or maybe the lessons aren’t long enough to practice. How can I improve?”
Response:
Memory retention improves with repetition and understanding core basics. Focus on simple variations to your foundational moves, then build outward. Check out our WCS Shorts for core moves and tips:
Remember, it’s about muscle memory and consistency!
Email:
“I love WCS and attend lessons weekly, but I can’t find a regular partner to practice with. It’s so frustrating! Any advice?”
Response:
Solo practice can be rewarding with the right approach. Try learning West Coast Swing line dances—they’re fun and help improve rhythm, movement quality, and musicality. These dances simulate the skills you’d practice with a partner.
Check out our Line Dance Videos on YouTube:
Alternatively, our monthly dance parties are a great place to connect with others who might also be looking for practice partners!
Email:
“My husband and I transitioned from salsa to WCS years ago. I can execute patterns, but I feel my dancing lacks flair and connection to the music. I want to match the playful, musical style I see in other dancers. Any tips?”
Response:
Musicality and creativity are learned over time. Start by focusing on styling and improvisation in smaller movements. Work on syncing with the music and experimenting with footwork.
Our Line Dance and Musicality Videos are excellent tools for developing these skills:
Private coaching can also help refine your unique style. Let us guide you toward unlocking your full creative potential!
At ShaneKeriDance, we’re here to support your journey every step of the way—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer. Check out our YouTube Channel, attend our monthly dance parties, or sign up for private lessons to elevate your skills.
Let’s keep the West Coast Swing magic alive!
