The purpose of this paper is to discuss research on a dance trend from the Big Band Era and to look at its connection to this era. During the course of the paper, I also look at the important and unique elements of Big Band Era Dance.
After the major 1929 stock market crash, Americans searched for a cool new beat and dance trend. They discovered it in the Big Bands’ music. This was first conducted by greats such as Duke Ellington, and then later by famous musicians such as Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, and Benny Goodman. Goodman was referred to as the “King of Swing,” as his fabulous dance band characterized the popular culture Swing music and dance era (Weinstock).
Listening and dancing to Swing music was connected to the Big Dance Bands as it was the bands that generated live entertainment and excitement, helping to get everyone up on the dance floor. It was loved by people on countless levels. It consummated their longing for a romantic, emotional diversion from everything which was mundane. Swing was also enjoyed for the excitement that it generated with the dance halls and other venues full of people from all cultures and walks of life doing the Swing
The catchy sounds of Swing music which went on from the 1930s to the late 1940s, started to be constantly played on the radio and on records. In addition to this, practically every US city experience swing bands who were performing on tour. The dance involved a man and a woman holding onto each other. The steps were easy to learn, and feeling the swing beat was almost natural for most people. The dance involved lots of underarm turns for both the man and woman, as well as solo on the spot spins and plenty of high kicks (Chnm Gmu Education).
- Chnm Gmu Education. “Tap your Knowledge Box The Swing Era.” N.d. Web. 13 November, 2016.
- Weinstock, Len. “The Big Band Era.” Red Hot Jazz. N.d. Web. 13 November, 2016.
