Frequent Asked Questions

 

		General questions Why call it « Jazz Roots »? The Jazz Roots is an Afro-American solo dance, usually danced on Swing music. Is is sometimes called Authentic Jazz or Traditional Jazz. It was born between 1920-1940, and used steps that now have became standard steps nowadays (Suzy Q, Boogie Forward, Apple Jack, Shorty George, ...), but that opens incredible improvising possibilities. Thus Jazz Roots is a comeback to the roots of Afro-American solo Jazz dance (the couple dance is the so called Lindy Hop). Jazz Roots and Lindy Hop are no more than the two faces of Swing dance from 1920-40. See also Jazz and dance. What it looks like? See Videos. Does it really happen in Paris? Yes. it will take place 100% inside Paris area, both for the parties and for the workshop. See also the Location page. Why dedicated and intensive solo Jazz Roots courses? • Just for the pleasure of solo dancing in an improvised way on Jazz, Charleston or Swing music. • Because knowing more about the traditional solo Jazz music helps us to better understand the solo dance evolution after 1950 (Modern Jazz, Funk, Hip Hop,…). • It can be applied to couple Swing dances (Lindy Hop, Boogie Woogie, Be-Bop, Rock'n Roll). • So that you can enter in the group jazz routines (Shim Sham, Big Apple, Jitterbug Stroll, ...) or in group.improvisations in the case of Jam Sessions or Challenges. • For a better rhythmic understanding and control of your body. What will be the contents of the Jazz Roots courses? All invited teachers have theirs own style and pedagogy, but in general, in the courses you will: • Learn standard Jazz steps (Boogie, Twist, Apple Jack, Suzy Q, etc) • Practice with improvisation exercices. • Musical listening and understanding of Jazz. • Learn new routines. • Learn some Jazz History (music and dance) What will be the contents of the discovery classes? These classes will make you discover new dances. The level will be an initiation level (for example for tap dance, the tap shoes are not allowed. See more in Classes. Practical Questions Where can we have lunch? Meals are not included in the workshop's Pass. There are many cheap places for lunch near the dance studio. What should I wear for the classes? Wear something comfortable that allows you to move freely.