Jive Dance Lessons
Feel the Rhythm—Lively Jive Classes with Great Energy
Master Jive’s Lightning-Fast Footwork, Sharp Turns & Playful Kicks with Expert Instructors
Learn the Lively Jive in Our Exciting Group Classes or Private Lessons
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Jive Dance Lessons in our Warren Studio
Shake It Off with Jive Dancing
Jive evolved from the popular American dances of the 1930’s such as Jitterbug, Boogie-Woogie, Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, Shag, Rock “n” Roll etc. Eventually, all of these styles of dance would be coupled under the Hat of “Jive”, but in the 1940’s a combination of these styles was given the name “Jive” and the dance was born.
Adopted as a Fifth Latin Dance
During World War II American G.I’s took the dance to Europe where it soon became very popular, especially among the young. It was new, fresh, and exciting. It was adapted by the French and became very popular in Britain and eventually in 1968 it was adopted as the fifth Latin dance in International competitions. The modern form of ballroom jive is a very happy and boppy dance, with many flicks & kicks. The Jive music is written in 4/4 time and should be played at a tempo of about 38 – 44 bars per minute. A spot dance not moving along the Line of Dance. Relaxed, springy action is the basic characteristic of the International Style Jive with lots of flicks and kicks in the advanced style.
Beginner Jive Dance Classes
Jive builds upon the basic steps of swing dancing, including movements derived from the East Coast Swing. The beginner Jive dance lessons at Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Warren, New Jersey, focus on teaching the essential six-count rhythm that defines this fast, energetic dance. You will learn the basic count of “1, 2, 3 & 4, 5 & 6” or “rock step, triple step, triple step”. Leaders step back on the left foot to begin the rock step and follow with coordinated triple steps to the left and right. Followers mirror this pattern, starting with a rock step on the right foot.
Our friendly instructors will also teach you the fallaway rock step, change of places from right to left and left to right, and the American spin, which introduces simple underarm turns. We help you in mastering the bouncing rhythm, clean foot placement, and maintaining a light, controlled energy throughout each movement.
Advanced Jive Dance Classes
Advanced Jive lessons introduce you to more intricate patterns, faster footwork, and expressive styling. You will learn double-hand hold turns, back-to-back turns, and swivels that use ball-of-foot rotation for added sharpness in your movements. You also learn kicks and flicks, such as chicken walks and open break variations, to improve the visual and rhythmic complexity of your dance moves.
Our expert instructors will teach you additional figures, including whips, link step variations, and shadow position sequences with synchronized arm and body movement. You will also work on styling, bounce dynamics, Guapacha timing, and the fluid linking of advanced combinations. Our advanced lessons would also include dips and tricks designed for performance, helping you build both technique and stage presence.
Try Jive at Our Dance Studio Today
From wedding dance instruction to a new hobby, or a way to connect with your partner, you’ll learn more, faster, and with more FUN, at Fred Astaire Dance Studios! Give us a call and ask about our Introductory Offer for new students. Our talented and friendly dance instructors in Warren are excited to help you start dancing today!
Group Classes and Private Lessons Available
Whether it’s your first time trying Jive or you’re a professional dancer learning the most advanced movements, we welcome you to take a class with us. Our students fill the dance floor with energy, excitement, and positivity as we explore the ballroom dance together.
Our professional instructors are ready to teach you Jive and provide a dance experience you’ll never forget.
Jive dance lessons are available now. You’ll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your very first dance!
Ballroom Dance Styles We Teach
Dancing is a great way to express your emotions. Hop on the dance floor and try a ballroom or Latin dance class with us. Get creative and have fun! To learn more about each type of dance and view a demonstration video, simply click on the dance style to learn more. Then give us a call at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and be sure to ask about our money-saving introductory offer for new students. Together, we’ll get you started on your personal dance journey and make sure you leave each dance lesson feeling happy and more confident with your dancing skills!
Classes are available for students of all skill levels – from beginners to advanced and all ages. Adults and children are welcome! Fred Astaire ballroom dance lessons are fun, exciting, and a great way to express yourself.
Our exceptional staff is ready to take your dancing journey to the next level. Sign up for an intro class!