Dance Hub
What is Old Style Jazz?
Old-Style Jazz, also known as Authentic Vernacular Jazz, encompasses a variety of Black American Jazz social dances that majorly originated in the clubs, parties, and ballrooms of Harlem, New York, during the first half of the 20th century.
Among others, Oldstyle Jazz includes the Charleston, Black Bottom, Applejack, Big Apple, Bebop, Mambo, Shaky Blues, Lindy Hop, The Walk, Bop and many more. The Savoy Ballroom, a prominent venue in Harlem, was a significant influence and trendsetter for many of these styles. Some of these dances spread to the rest of the world, notably through legendary performers like the Whitey's Lindy Hoppers, Josephine Baker, Cab Calloway...
Levels
Up to 4 levels
Covering first-timers to proficient Jazz and Urban dancers.
This hub is designed for you to become the best Jazz dancer you can be in your lifetime.
Introduction
Getting started
Wisdom
Personal inspiration
Foundation
The must-have
Artistry
Becoming much more
Philosophy & Background
Learn the foundation, create your own style
Embark on a journey to master the foundations of various Authentic Vernacular Jazz styles from the 1930s to the 1950s, under the guidance of Alex McCormack. Transitioning from his early days as a competitive Bboy, Alex has dedicated over a decade to the study and practice of Old-Style Jazz. His extensive exploration includes analyzing historical footage, engaging in-depth conversations with Old-timers and Old-school dancers, and attempting to emulate the essence of Black American Jazz dances.
Alex's approach to teaching is deeply influenced by his background in Hip Hop and the wisdom imparted by his mentors. He stresses the importance of a solid foundational understanding, as he attempts to pass down from his studies of the originators of Jazz dance. Yet, he also encourages a creative adaptation of these fundamentals to foster a unique personal style. In his view, this blend of respect for traditional techniques and individual expression is key to both preserving the legacy of the dance and contributing to its ongoing evolution and innovation.
Through his classes, Alex offers a comprehensive learning experience that is not just about mastering steps, but also about understanding and respecting the rich history and culture behind these vibrant dance forms. This balanced approach ensures that students gain a deep appreciation for Old-Style Jazz while developing their own artistic voice within the genre.
Scholarships Offered
Vernacular jazz dance should be accessible to all while having its cultural heritage carried by its founders legacy. If you relate to these situations, please consider applying for a scholarship :
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Cultural Heritage: If you have a direct connection to African-American Dance Heritage.
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Financial Barriers: If financial constraints hinder your access to the courses.
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Send a short cover letter to oldstylejazzdance@gmail.com