by Angelica Martinez
Arts and Entertainment Editor
Several decades ago, there was once a fad for “jivin’ music,” “jitterbugging,” and big band leaders such as Glenn Miller and Cab Calloway. Teens were at their prime with what has today become of large interest — swing music.
The swing fervor can be attributed to the increase in Hollywood to place movie plots in that era. Viewers see kicking legs and swinging girls while learning about the difficulties of that time. Movies like “Swing Kids” have inspired interest in the young and in the old.
According to University of La Verne alumnus Julian Esquivedo, swing clubs draw a diverse crowd.
“There are people there from all ages. The oldest crowd I’ve seen is probably in their 50s,” he said.
Although swinging takes some expertise, people interested in swing music are also capable of learning.
“It’s easy,” said Esquivedo. “All you do is watch and then you try it. That’s why they call it ‘swing dancing.’ You ‘swing’ what you know.”
However, for the perfectionists who seek to look good on the dance floor, local dance studios teach swing lessons. Most teach “west coast swing.” The difference between that and “east coast” swing is apparent in the dance moves.
“The moves you see in movies like ‘Swing Kids’ is ‘east coast’ swing. People are kicking wildly and lifting girls in the air,” said Aubrye Harris, a ULV alumna.
“I took lessons for both. It is so much fun,” she said.
Lately, more and more people have become aware of this “fun.” According to Esquivedo, more and more people are going to the clubs.
“There is a club on Hollywood called the Derby, it gets good there,” he said.
Other clubs play swing music in intervals. For further information, call your favorite dance club for details.
