Swing Dance Lessons in Sarasota, FL
Swing is the happiest dance there is. It fits everything from big band and rockabilly to Motown and today's pop hits, and it's easy to start. Our Sarasota instructors will have you swinging out, spinning and having a blast from your very first lesson.
- East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing & Lindy Hop
- Private 1-on-1 lessons, no partner needed
- Two studios: South Tamiami Trail & Downtown Sarasota
Start Swing Lessons
Your first private lesson is free. Takes 30 seconds, no obligation.
Why Swing Is the Perfect First Dance
One dance that works with almost every song at the party.
Sarasota loves live music, from jazz and big band to rock-and-roll cover bands and oldies nights. Swing fits all of it, which makes it the most useful dance you can learn for weddings, galas, reunions and parties.
Swing is energetic, playful and very forgiving. A single triple-step basic and a few turns are enough to have fun right away, and as you grow, swing gives you endless room to add style, tricks and musical flair.
It's also a fantastic workout and a great way to meet people. Swing dancers love to rotate partners, so at our practice parties you'll dance with lots of other students, which is the fastest way to get comfortable.
The Swing Styles We Teach
Your instructor will match the style to the music you love.
East Coast Swing
The classic six-count swing with rock-steps and triple-steps. It's bouncy, rotational and perfect for oldies, rockabilly and big band. This is where most students start.
West Coast Swing
A smooth, stretchy swing danced in a slot. It works with modern pop, R&B, blues and country, and is loved for its connection and musical freedom.
Lindy Hop
The original swing dance from 1920s and 30s Harlem. It has the famous swing-out and plenty of improvisation, and it's at its best with big band and jazz.
Jive
The fast, high-energy ballroom version of swing, with sharp kicks and flicks. It's a favorite for showcases and for dancers who love speed.
Your Swing Journey at Arthur Murray
From your first rock-step to confident social swing.
- Lesson 1: Rock-Step & Triple-StepLearn the East Coast Swing basic (triple-step, triple-step, rock-step) plus your first underarm turn, and dance to a full song.
- Weeks 1–4: Turns & ThrowoutsInside and outside turns, throwouts, tuck turns and the basic connection that lets leaders and followers move together without forcing anything.
- Months 2–3: Style & VarietyAdd swivels, kicks and syncopations, learn to adjust to faster and slower songs, and start West Coast Swing or Lindy Hop if you want.
- Bronze Level & BeyondArthur Murray's medal system takes you into advanced patterns, fun tricks and musicality. Many students pair swing with Foxtrot or Hustle for a complete party-dance toolkit.
Swing Tips From Our Instructors
Advice our Sarasota instructors give new swing students.
Rock-step back, not down
The rock-step is a small step back with a quick weight change. Keep it small and you'll stay balanced and on time.
Keep a little stretch
Swing works through gentle tension in the arms, like a spring. Too loose and you lose the lead; too tight and it feels like pulling.
Smaller at faster tempos
When the band speeds up, make your triple-steps smaller instead of skipping them. It keeps you smooth and in control.
Smile and have fun
Swing is meant to be playful. Relaxed shoulders and a smile make even a simple basic look great.
Two Sarasota Studios, One Proven Method
Take Swing lessons at whichever studio is closest to you.
Arthur Murray Sarasota
8383 S Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34238
(941) 500-2703
Easy access from Siesta Key, Palmer Ranch, Osprey and south Sarasota.
Arthur Murray Downtown Sarasota
2074 Ringling Blvd
Sarasota, FL 34237
(941) 260-0406
Minutes from downtown, Lido Key, St. Armands and Longboat Key.
Swing Lessons in Sarasota: FAQ
Which swing dance should I learn first?
Most students start with East Coast Swing because it has a simple basic and works with lots of popular music. From there you can add West Coast Swing or Lindy Hop depending on the music you like.
Do I need a partner for swing lessons in Sarasota?
No. In private lessons your instructor dances with you, and at group classes and practice parties you rotate partners and meet other dancers.
Is swing dancing good exercise?
Very. A few songs of swing gets your heart rate up, improves coordination and builds leg strength, and it's so much fun you won't notice you're working out.
Can swing work for a wedding first dance?
Definitely. A swing first dance is a crowd favorite, especially with an upbeat song or a slow-to-fast mashup. We can teach social swing or choreograph your routine.
Is the first swing lesson free?
Yes. New students get their first private lesson free, with no obligation. You'll learn the swing basic and a turn and talk through a program for your goals.
Ready to Swing in Sarasota?
Your first private lesson is free. Pick the studio closest to you and start dancing.
Book My Free Swing Lesson