Hola Dancers!
Summer feels like it’s flying by! I hope you’ve had been able to go dancing outdoors. I had a GREAT time at the beginning of this month going to an outdoor swing dance in Barcelona with my bestie Stina who visited all the way from NYC (not this video, but it’s cute one of us dancing anyways).
In Spain, outdoor dances are called “clandestinos,” translated to “clandestine dances.” I love it.
Lesson Schedule: Last Chance
Book now, because after August 4th, I’m offline for 2 months. Yup, you read that right.
I’m hiking the Camino de Santiago from Le Puy-en-Veley to Santiago de Compostela, a journey of about 1,500 km (930 miles). It’s going to take us 2 months to hike. So until then, get your dance on now. It’s your last chance for private lessons with me until October!
Book Now: I’m available everyday (including today!) through August 4th.
Virtual private lessons are via Google Meet, Zoom, or Facebook Video Chat. Reply to this email or Contact me to set-up your private lessons. I’m currently in Spain (CEST time zone). Typically, I’m available before 3 pm EDT.
Video Inspiration
The Hot Sugar Jazz Band is one of the most popular bands for Lindy Hop events in Europe. They’re from France. I haven’t had a chance to catch them live…yet. I found this delightful music video of “With Thee I Swing” featuring dancer Jean-Charles Zambo (aka Joyss).
I love how he uses his whole body to express himself. Seriously, even those first 15 seconds are just packed with personality. Jean-Charles’s choreography is fun, sharp, and plays beautifully with the camera work.
Hot Sugar Band & Nicolle Rochelle - With Thee I Swing (ft. JC Joyss)
Song of the Month
Because Summer should be filled with delight, I chose “Dough-Rey-Me” by Lionel Hampton. The lyrics are fun and the vibraphone melodies are so catchy.
Even though the song is from 1940, we’re lucky this remastered version exists for listening clarity. (Yes, this is before Julie Andrews sang this scale in The Sound of Music. Also, check this website for more history on do re mi).
Fun Fact: I’ve seen the spelling for this song many many various ways: “Dough-Re-Me,” “Dough-Re-Mi,” “Dough-Ra-Me,” etc.
“Dough-Rey-Me’” by Lionel Hampton & his Orchestra
Are you looking for some dance inspiration?
I teach private lessons online, I’m available for gigs, and I have a video feedback option. Email me to set it up or with any questions. I’m currently located in Ourense, Spain and I’m available for teaching in Europe (and anywhere in the world online).
Virtual Private lessons are via Google Meet, Zoom, or Facebook Video Chat.
Happy dancing!
Lainey