It’s Got That Swing

I can’t remember when I first started to love swing music. My grandfather sang in a swing band, and although I wasn’t born in time to watch him in action, I was always fond of the crackled recordings that we had on cassette tape. I suppose it was one of my trips to London from the remote countryside that really introduced me to the glamour and opulence of that whole era: the music, the fashion, the cigars (only for looking at), the lindy hop and the jitterbug. No, I wasn’t transported back to the 40s or 50s in a time machine - I visited venues like Cafe de Paris and The Pigalle Club in my pursuit of becoming a singer. My, how it opened my eyes! Ever since, I’ve been addicted to decadence.

One of the great things about swing music is that you can combine the luxury of that time period with good, clean fun (or less so if you’re grinding to jazzy blues). Dancing with a partner to a big band is exhilarating; I challenge you to finish the dance without a smile on your face! I still dip in and out of the scene, though I did inherit my mother’s two left feet. As long as your partner can lead, you’re sorted. The dance troup Swing Patrol have crossed my path a few times, and this week they’re back on my radar. They’ll be taking part in the annual London Swing Festival - a fest for the eyes, ears and feet!

There will be events taking place from 26 - 30 May that you can participate in, or simply go along and watch. We’d recommend getting a taxi in Temple for the ball on the Golden Jubilee boat on the Thames. How much fun does that sound?! Whether you’re brand new to swing music or a seasoned dancer, you’re going to enjoy this.