Ross Mernyk's Swing Dance Steps

OVERVIEW
This compilation is an ongoing personal project of mine. I've taken over 20 months of swing classes, mainly Savoy style and Lindy Hop, mostly through Sandra Cameron Dance Center in New York City. Each class teaches me sequences of steps, which of course are impossible to dance socially with anyone outside of class. So I've regrouped the steps by starting position so that I can mix and match. Speaking of mixing and matching, I realize not all leaders are male, or followers female, but to keep things straight in my mind I'm writing as if they are. The compilation is written from the male perspective, but almost all of the woman's steps are included too.
Subtle choreography and posture is generally not included here. Nor are details of the most basic steps. This list is for dancers who have the basics, and wish to remind themselves of the possibilities. Don't carry this list to the dance floor, but let it help you expand your repetoire, as it does for me. I've kept the list compact so it's easy to scan. And it's self-contained so you can keep it on hard or floppy disk, and email it. It prints pretty well under Netscape 4.
I'm sure there are mistakes here, which are due to my confusion. I'm not a professional dancer. And Sandra Cameron Dance Center has no connection with or responsibility for this project. So if you try to follow these steps and find your legs permanently knotted into a pretzel, it's your own problem. Wow, you can't do anything without disclaimers nowadays!
Blue underlined names below are the "official" name for the step (whatever that means). The underlining is for nice laser printing, the blue is for web browsers that don't support underlining. Simply capitalized names aren't official (I just heard them a couple times).
Hope you enjoy the list. See you dancing!

LINKS
Bands	Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at www.bbvd.com is from California. Bim Bam Baby at www.nyc-swing.com/bbb are from NYC. The Blue Saracens at www.bluesaracens.com are from NYC. The Blues Jumpers at www.summitcross.com are from NYC. The Camaros at www.spidermedia.com/thecamaros are from NYC. Eight To The Bar at www.moonsite.com/eighttothebar is from Connecticut. Indigo Swing at www.indigoswing.com is from California. Jet Set 6 at www.jetset6.com is from NYC. The Ray Gelato Giants at www.raygelato.com are from London. The Yallopin Hounds at http://idt.net/~soulkid/hounds.html are from NYC.
Clubs	Swing Dance Long Island is at www.sdli.org . Connecticut Swing Dance Society is at www.ctswing.org .
Events	Beantown Lindy Hop Summer Camp is at www.hoptothebeat.com . Lincoln Center's Midsummer Night Swing is at www.midsummerswing.org . First Night New York at www.firstnightnyc.com runs alcohol-free new year's eve events. Frankie Manning's 85^th Birthday Bash at www.frankie85ny.org will be on 5/26/99.
Info	Yehoodi.com covers the NYC swing scene best. Swing Out New York at www.swingout-ny.com covers the NYC swing scene pretty well. The U.S. Swing Dance Server at www.cs.cornell.edu/home/aswin/SwingDancing/swing_dancing.html has a wealth of info. Janice's Jittersauce at www.jittersauce.com covers Janice Wilson's events. Lo-Fi Lee's Site at www.nyc-swing.com covers Lo-Fi Lee's events. Lindy Baby at www.lindybaby.com has streaming video instruction.
Misc	My home page is at www.rossmernyk.com . This list is at www.rossmernyk.com/swing.html . Email me at website@rossmernyk.com Call me at 646-522-4359 8am-11pm New York time. Alex's CD Suggestions he sent me in January 1998.
Stores	Savoy Style at www.savoystyle.com carries all things swing. DanceStore.com also carries all things swing. Music Boulevard at www.musicblvd.com carries swing CDs. Hepcat Records at www.hepcat.com/records carries swing CDs.

ABBREVIATIONS
L-left	S-slow	RS-rockstep	openR-open position right hands
R-right	Q-quick	HS-handswitch	openB-open position both hands
F-forward	C-count	VQ-very quick	P-popular song
B-back	T-tuck	CH-charleston

CHEAT SHEET
Closed	R & L turn, tuck turns (free spin, hold on, his HS), kick thrus, breakstep, swim, swingout (normal, hesitation), push around, mess around, pecking, traveling, break mama's back, jockey step, sling shot.
Open	he goes, she goes he goes, D-A Drop, HS, watch & suzieQ, airplane, swingout (normal, hesitation, her extra turn), lindy circle, cradle, cradle with CH, roll around, walk around, chassez, backswitch (6C, 8C, texas tommy 1/2, into promenade), sugarfoot, twirl, reverse points, high kick (in 8C turn, each turn), waist or neck pass, inside turn, itch, jump B boogie F, shadows.
OpenR	watch, underarm & HS, man's fast turn, woman around man, T turn, triples, turn her L into cuddle, skip step, skip around, drop & pop, shoulder turn, arm slide, scuff into suzieQ, his free spin.
OpenB	pretzel, cuddle, cradle, toe heel swivels.
Cuddle	kicks (F, thru, F & thru), freeze (short, long), dip, two mooches, walk around, traveling step, toss accross, RS F & look.
Breaks	her twist, heel, F kicks, F & B kicks, mule kicks, side kick, brushes (F or B), sweep, sweep & kicks, his sweep & tap, her sweep, stop reverse (ball change, step B), kick away, slip slop (fast, slow), scissor (kicks, smooth), cross cross, semicircle (his, hers), toe slides, out out in in, jump, R scuff.
Opp CH	get in with freeze in openR. do it. kick around CH (to get out, back in, or with point).
Same Dir CH	get in after kick away break. do it, wrap her into CH lift. get out with kick around CH.
Skating CH	get in with Opp CH, or 8C cradle, or from OpenR with stomp or kicks. do it, turn together, turn switching who's in front. turn with finish (½ or 1 turn).
Front Back CH	get in with Opp CH, or 8C cradle, or from OpenR with kicks or run around T turn. do it, do it with side kicks, switch who's in front (letting go, holding on), full turn keeping her in front, lift. get out by raising arms, or raise R arm with L hand on her back, or lower R hands.
Face Face CH	get in with RS into T. do it. get out into RS.
Side Side CH	from cuddle do in out in in. from open do kick & pat hands.

STYLING NOTES
This section is a smattering of Lindy Hop & Savoy Style notes told to me by various teachers. I can't attribute them to anyone in particular, and am not even sure if I've got the styles correct. And come to think of it, do as I say, not as I do!
Keep knees bent, weight forward, stay low, stay on the balls of your feet.
Bounce with every count of music, bouncing from the knees, not the head.
The open part of Swingouts should be big & low & high energy.
The tucked part of Swingouts should be close & taller & slow.
When stepping backward, drive toes into the floor like running backward.
In Swingouts, the woman revolves around the man.
Don't raise your hand too high when placing it above a woman's head. Instead use your hand to gently help turn her.
Don't get to the rockstep early & wait. Instead arrive at 8.
Don't hop or launch off rockstep.
To dance Fast: swingouts turn on 3. women do not RS but rather walk F Q Q. men do J-Hook Lead. Calves & feet stay loose, energy comes from thighs. Don't lift feet or stomp (save energy).
Make hand leads straight. Don't bounce hand up & down, or left & right.
Look at your partner & enjoy the eye contact. This is a couples dance.

FROM CLOSED POSITION	FINISH	LEAD BY
Basic step: S S RS.	closed	stay closed
Pair of underarm turns (aka R & L turn)	open\|openB	raise her arm, push on her back
Tuck Turn: T S, she free spins R S, RS	openR	twist her away on preceding RS
Tuck Turn: T S, hold on & let her spin R S, RS	open	twist her away on preceding RS
Tuck Turn: T S, hold on & she spins R S while he spins R & does HS behind his back S, RS	openR	twist her away on preceding RS
Breakstep: move her from your R to L S S, RS	openR	more force on her back
Pair of: T & kick L S, kick R S, RS. woman mirrors.	closed	change to waltz hand grip
Swim: he turns R with his L hand straight up, while she simply moves away & turns ½L S S, RS	open	let go with L hand & raise it straight up, push on her back
Swingout: he turns ½R into a T S, spin R Q, spin R Q, both step back S, RS. in savoy style, release her waist immediately after spin so she can walk F into the last 4C of step.	open	cross in front of her into a T
Hesitation Swingout: same as Swingout, except he rests 1½C before turning ½R into a T in ½C	open	wait, then cross in front of her into a T
Traveling Step: turn her ½L & move her out & hold her firmly at arms length S, step F on R then L Q Q doing "fun" on each step, turn ½L & come together S, RS. Fun can be a bird peck, etc.	closed	twist her away on preceding RS switch to waltz hand grip, hold her L hip firmly
Push Around: T S. he steps F & R on R while she twists R Q. he twists L while she twists L & steps B & R on L Q. repeat Q Q steps 8 more C. Let go of her L hip & triple step face to face moving toward his R her L S. he steps L in front of R Q, then R in front of L Q, while she mirrors Q Q.	open	twist her away on preceding RS, switch to waltz hand grip, hold her L hip firmly
Break Mama's Back: T tightly Q, he puts L leg around her (kicks her butt) Q, he puts L foot down & then bends her backward Q, upright her Q, RS.	closed	twist her away on preceding RS
Mess Around: Get low & T tightly S. make 8 Q bobs together in place, tracing a clockwise circle (leaning in a new direction with each bob). his first bob is leaning F, hers is leaning B. repeat 8C. raise his L her R hand & twist her away Q Q to lead a Tuck Turn.	closed	twist her away on preceding RS, get low, keep L hand low & close
Jockey Step: typically done before starting to dance. step B on R S, tap L toe in front of R foot S, step F on L S, tap R toe behind L foot S. repeat 8C. RS to start dancing.	closed	stay closed
Sling Shot: she does RS, while he lunges F on his L Q, then pushes on her back & leads an underarm turn Q. thus she is launched F into a ½R turn S.	open	lunge F on L during RS

FROM OPEN POSITION	FINISH	LEAD BY
He goes under	open	raise her arm to her side
She Goes He Goes: she goes under his arm S, he goes under her arm S, RS	open	raise her arm in front of her
D-A Drop: she goes under his arm S, he puts his L hand on his L shoulder still facing away & lets her hand drop into his R hand (waiting palm up behind his back) S, he does RS F during her RS. He turns ¼R & steps L over R Q, both raise R hands to open palm grip Q, both free spin R S, RS.	open	raise her arm in front of her
Handswitch: HS S, HS behind him while he turns L S, RS	open	pull her to your R side
She twists (he watches or SuzieQ's)	open	don't pull her in
Swingout aka 8 Count Turn: T S, spin R Q, spin R Q, step B S, RS. in savoy style, dance in a slot allowing woman to do her ½R turn in 1C, releasing her waist immediately afterward. thus woman can walk F into the last 4C of the step.	open	pull her straight into T
Hesitation Swingout: same as Swingout, except he rests 1½C before entering T in ½C	open	wait, then pull her straight into T
Start Swingout with T S, spin ½R together while he raises L hands Q Q, she underarm turns 1R while he freezes S. can both RS, or go into Opposing CH.	open\|openR	pull her straight into T
Lindy Circle: T S, spin together R Q Q, untuck but stay closed & step B together S, RS.	closed	pull her straight into T
Airplane: he turns ½L wrapping him up in her R arm S, let go & turn him ½L her ½R & meet S, RS or walk B 2 Q steps. Can be done with his arms close to his body, or with his R arm out then L arm up.	cuddle	pull her slightly, and stick R arm out making an airplane wing
8 Count Cradle: turn her ½L & step L out of her way S, stop her back with his R arm & he does RS F & she does RS, send her back out using ½R turn S, RS	open	underarm ½L turn
8 Count Cradle with his CH: turn her ½L & kick L S, stop her back with his R arm & he kicks R F & she does RS, send her back out using ½R turn & he turns ½R & kicks R F S, he kicks L F & she does RS. can hold her R hand throughout or just during her RS. can repeat. get out with She Goes He Goes.	open	underarm ½L turn
Leg Turn: she lifts R knee & he puts his R hand flat on it S, he pushes her leg L & she spins 1¼R falling into his R arm & R thigh S, catch her Q, lift her Q	cuddle	raise L hand high to waltz grip, lower & flatten R hand
Reverse Points: put L heel F & point R hand F & lean F S, put L toe B & point R hand B & look away S, put L heel F & point R hand F & lean F 3½C, tap L then R ½C, RS. woman mirrors.	open	shake L hand up & down once, and point R hand at her
Backswitch: put her R hand behind her back while still facing each other S, switch her R hand to your R hand & pull down to spin her R 1 turn S, RS	open\|openR	pull her R arm down
Backswitch: put her R hand behind her back while still facing each other S, switch her R hand to his R hand Q Q, pull down to spin her 1R S, RS	open\|openR	pull her R arm down
Texas Tommy: perform a standard Swingout, but amidst the T put her R hand behind her back & transfer it to his R hand. don't pull on her arm. during the step B part of the Swingout, she unwraps with a 1R turn. RS together.	openR	pull her straight into T
Texas Tommy with double turn: during last 2C of Texas Tommy, raise her R hand above her head while she spins an extra 1R. RS together.	openR	pull her straight into T
Put her R hand behind her back while still facing each other S, switch her R hand to his R hand Q Q, pull down to spin her 1R while he turns ½L S, he puts his L hand beside him palm F, while she takes his L hand also, RS. skip & kick L (her R) S, skip & kick R (her L) & let go of R hands & turn him ¼L her ½R S, support her RS with his R hand on her back RS. still holding L hands, turn him ½L her ¾R under L arms, into cuddle with her L hand on his L shoulder S S, release L hands & RS	cuddle	pull her R arm down, leave room for her to move
Sugarfoot: He walks B 6 Q, while she walks F 6 Q with twists on each step.	open	walk B 2 instead of preceding RS
Chassez: T & turn ½R S, facing each other move toward his R: step feet apart on R & together on L Q, repeat twice Q Q, tap L then R foot a bit harder Q, RS. lean to L with R arm up during steps. woman mirrors.	open	pull her straight into T, put R hand all the way around her waist to start & steer her, let go of R once stepping
Roll Around: always holding her R hand, he steps F to pass her on her L with arm raised S, he turns ½R while she turns 1½L S, RS.	open	walk toward her L side & raise his L her R arm
Walk Around (she turns 1R walking around him, he just steps out of her way): he raises lead hand over them while both step (his L her R) toward their own L F S, he steps R to R F then L to R B while she turns Q Q, he steps R to L B while she turns S, RS.	open	on preceeding RS bring lead hand low & to his R
8 Count Twirl: T & turn together ½R S, pull her L hip & push her R hand (upward & away) to separate, turn 1R Q Q S, RS.	open	pull her into T, flatten L hand against her R hand
Around the World with Points: same as 8 Count Twirl followed by Reverse Points.	open	pull her into T, flatten L hand against her R hand
High Kick: T S, spin R Q, spin R Q, he kicks R leg high to his L S, he spins R while she does RS.	open	pull her straight into T
High Kick: T S, he kicks R leg high to his L while she waits S, each spins R S, RS.	open	pull her straight into T
Waist Pass or Neck Pass: both step F S. he puts her R hand on his R waist or shoulder & lets go & turns ½L & extends L arm to his L (with palm up), while she turns ½R & runs hand around waist or shoulders & down his L arm to his hand S, RS.	open	pull her toward his R side
Inside Turn: she goes under his L arm turning ½L while he turns ½R to face her with arm low again S, he free spins L with R arm up S, RS.	openR	raise her arm in front of her
Itch: pretend to itch your body all over, hold still 2C in each place, do 7C or 15C, Ball Change, RS.	open	let go & itch
Jump Back Boogie Forward: clap hands low Q, jump B on R then L Q, repeat clap & jumps 3 times Q Q Q Q Q Q, rest Q, Boogie F 4 wide steps S S S S. can repeat. jump backs should be low & taunting.	open	clap on 8^th C of music
Shadows: turn ¼R & kick L toe F into floor & scuff R foot B behind L knee Q, rest Q, turn ¼L & step onto R & RS, repeat scuff & rest Q Q, use arm tension to spin 1¼L on L foot & step onto R S, RS. woman mirrors.	open	pull her R hand down & toward her L side
His free spin: T S, he steps R foot F Q, he free spins 1R on R by pushing off her back 3C, RS.	open	pull her straight into T

FROM OPEN POSITION RIGHT HANDS	FINISH	LEAD BY
She twists (he watches)	openR	don't pull her in
She goes under his arm S, he does HS S, RS	open	pull her & raise his R arm
Man's fast turn: she turns ½L & he turns 1½R fast, RS	open	pull her past
Woman Around Man: she goes under turning L S, he does HS & faces away S, he does RS F; she goes under S, she turns ½L to face him S, RS	open\|openB	pull her & raise his R arm
T S, she free spins R S, RS	open	pull her slightly, then push her
Triples: he turns ½R & pats her on back S, she turns ½R & pats him S, he pats again S, free spin her R S, RS	open\|openR	pull her to his R
He turns ½R while moving F & R, while she turns L S, join in a cuddle both moving B S, RS	cuddle	RS with B foot toward R, turn her L in place, let go
Skip Step: underarm turn her ½L so she is behind him S, he moves R & puts his L hand beside him palm F, while she moves L & takes his L hand also S, RS. skip & kick L (her R) S, skip & kick R (her L) & let go of R hands & turn him ½L her ½R to cuddle S, RS	cuddle	pull her & raise his R arm, do not release R hands
Skip Around: underarm turn her ½L so she is behind him while he skips & kicks L toward F L S, he skips & kicks R moving R & puts his L hand beside him palm F, while she moves L & takes his L hand also S, RS. skip & kick L (her R) S, skip & kick R (her L) & let go of R hands & turn him ¼L her ½R S, support her RS with his R hand on her back RS. still holding L hands, turn him ½L her ¾R under L arms, into cuddle with her L hand on his L shoulder S S, release L hands & RS	cuddle	pull her & raise his R arm, do not release R hands
Drop and Pop: both step F & crouch S. in 1C he throws her hand to his R, he spins ¾R, she spins ¾L, both stand, hold close hands, lean away from each other, lift close knees high, snap fingers on far hand. hold position 2C, Ball Change Q, RS.	open	pull her arm down
Shoulder Turn: she steps F while he turns ¼R & catches her R hip in his R hand & her L shoulder in his L hand S, walk him F her B 2 steps Q Q, spin her 1½R while he backs up & turns ¼L to catch her in cuddle S, RS.	cuddle	pull her but catch her hip
Arm Slide: she goes under turning L, while he turns ½R & places her R hand behind his neck & extends his L hand palm up toward her S, slide apart S, RS.	open	pull her & raise his R arm
Scuff into SuzieQ: he kicks L toward L F & underarm turns her ½L so she is behind him S, she steps L while he scuffs his R foot F & hops on L & puts his L hand beside him palm F S, she takes his L hand also & stands beside him S & RS together (both on R foot). Moving F together, hop on L foot (R knee up) S, hop on R foot (L knee up) S. Both kick R toward F R Q, SuzieQ to L 8C (first C is R foot in). Get out by letting go of R hands & shifting weight F & B on 2C of SuzieQ, then turning her 1½R free.	open	pull her & raise his R arm

FROM OPEN POSITION BOTH HANDS	FINISH	LEAD BY
8 Count Cuddle: wrap her to cuddle on his R & step L out of her way S, RS (man R foot), unwrap her S, RS	openB	pull both hands toward you, then raise his L her R arm
Pretzel: each put L hand behind your head S, slide R arms down to a hand clasp S, RS	openR	lift both arms
Toe Heel Swivels: tap his L toe pointing toe in Q, tap L heel pointing toe out Q, step L over R S; repeat for R foot; repeat both feet; lower hands & RS. Lean into each other. Don't bounce. woman mirrors.	openB	change both hands to waltz grip, twist her L then untwist her
Cradle: wrap her to cuddle on his R & step L out of her way S, walk him F her B two steps Q Q, unwrap her holding his R to her L S, RS; repeat wrap S, walk Q Q, unwrap S, RS; free spin her L to open position S S, RS	open	pull both hands toward you, then raise his L her R arm

FROM CUDDLE POSITION	FINISH	LEAD BY
Get low & kick L S, kick R S, repeat both, T & repeat kicks into each other, RS. woman mirrors.	closed	kick L S
Short Freeze: tap L F & freeze 3½C, tap L then R ½C, RS. woman mirrors.	closed	tap L but hold her still
Long Freeze: step F on L Q, step B on R Q, step B on L Q, step F on R Q, tap L F & freeze 3½C, tap L then R ½C, RS. woman mirrors.	closed	step F on L
Two Mooches: kick L S, kick R S, walk B Q Q, face each other & tap L toe behind R foot Q, step L beside R Q, tap R behind L Q, step R beside L & re-cuddle Q; repeat walk B & taps; RS. woman mirrors.	closed	kick L S
Dip: get low & take one long smooth step on L S, tap R next to L Q, tap R back Q, RS. woman mirrors.	cuddle	hold her tight during long step
Pair of: kick L S, kick R S, RS. woman mirrors.	cuddle	kick L S
Pair of: T & kick L S, kick R S, RS. woman mirrors.	closed	change to waltz hand grip
Walk Around: walk F turning a little L with each step S Q Q S. RS together. he takes small steps.	cuddle	bring her with you
Traveling Step: kick outer foot inward S, inner foot outward S, outer foot inward Q, rotate him ½R her ½L into Promenade Q, RS on wrong foot together. repeat kicks S S Q, rotate him ½L her ½R into cuddle Q, RS.	cuddle	steer her back in & out
Toss Accross: move F & turn him ½R her ½L S, RS together on wrong foot Q Q, move F & turn him ½L her ½R S, RS together.	cuddle	move F while pushing on her R hip
he does preceeding RS F to L getting low & looking at her. he slowly steps his L foot accross to his R while leading her into T S, she free spins 1R S, RS.	open\|openR	RS F to L while leading her into T

BREAKS
Twist: women can replace RS with 2 Q twists. each step lands on ball with toe pointed out, & rotates in. if dancing solo, men or women can twist while walking F, with R hand on belly & L hand shaking.
Heel Break: replaces RS of any step. push apart on his L her R hand, hop B onto both heels, swing free arm B, lean B but keep upper body F. woman mirrors.
F Kicks: replaces RS of any step. kick L foot F Q, kick R foot F Q. woman mirrors.
F & B Kicks: men can replace last S & RS of any step which ends open. kick R foot F S, kick L foot B S.
Mule Kicks: replaces last S & RS of any step. kick R foot B & R Q, step onto R behind L foot Q, kick L foot B & L Q, RS 1C. woman mirrors.
Side Kick: replaces last S & RS of any step. he kicks R toward R or she kicks L toward L S, RS normally.
Brushes: replaces last S & RS of any step. bring feet together ½C, brush L foot out Q, brush R foot out Q, brush L foot out Q, RS ½ C. woman mirrors. can brush feet F standing straight, or B leaning F.
Sweep Step: replaces last S & RS of any step. staying on L foot without pivoting, smoothly sweep R foot along floor from F & R to B & L 3C. transfer weight & RS 1C. woman mirrors.
Sweep Step: replaces last S & RS of any step. staying on L foot without pivoting, smoothly sweep R foot along floor from F & R to B & L S. kick L foot F Q, kick R foot F Q. woman mirrors.
Sweep & Tap Break: men can replace last S & RS of any step which ends open. staying on L foot without pivoting, smoothly sweep R foot along floor from F & R to B & L Q. tap L toe Q. kick L foot F Q. RS 1C.
Sweep Step: women can replace last S & RS of any step they finish turning R to open position. smoothly sweep L foot along floor while turning ½R on R foot S. then wiggle twice Q Q. alternatively she can sweep 3C, & RS 1C.
Stop Reverse: men can replace last S & RS of any step which ends closed. get low & lunge (R foot F, L foot B), with her on his R side 3C, letting her move. his L knee may touch floor. tap L then R 1C.
Stop Reverse: men can replace last S & RS of any step which ends closed. get low & lunge (R foot F, L foot B), with her on his R side S, letting her move. his L knee may touch floor. lead a Tuck Turn as she does RS, while he steps B onto L Q, then B onto R Q.
Rhythm Break or Kick Away: replaces last S & RS of any step which ends open. turn ¼R & kick R foot F S, turn ¼R & kick L foot F (away from her) S. woman mirrors, or can do both her kicks away from him.
Slip Slop: replaces last S & RS of any step. hop toward R dragging L foot & raising R knee high & step onto R Q, repeat toward L dragging R Q, repeat toward B & R dragging L Q, Ball Change (step B onto L & F onto R Q). woman mirrors.
Slip Slop: replaces last S & RS of any step. hop toward R dragging L foot & raising R knee high Q, step onto R Q, hop toward L dragging R foot & raising L knee high Q, RS 1C. woman mirrors.
Scissor Break: replaces last S & RS of any step which ends open. kick R toward R Q, jump to R & step onto R & tap L toe behind R foot Q, kick L toward L Q, jump to L & step onto L & onto R foot behind L Q. jump low & accross, not high. woman mirrors.
Smooth Scissor Break: replaces last S & RS of any step which ends open. tap R toe to R Q. step onto R, then continuing R step onto L in front of R Q. step to R on R, then tap L toe to L Q. step onto L, then continuing L step onto R in front of L Q. woman mirrors.
Cross Cross: replaces RS of any step which ends open. cross L leg in front of R Q, cross R leg in front of L Q. woman mirrors. easier when last S contains a Stomp Off.
His Semicircle: men can replace last 6C (Q Q S RS) of Swingout. step R behind L Q, rest Q, step L to L & B Q, rest Q, step R behind L Q, kick L B & snap fingers Q.
Her Semicircle: women can replace last 6C (Q Q S RS) of Swingout. stepping sideways step L to L then step R in front of L Q, rest Q, repeat Q Q, step onto L & RS.
Toe slides: replaces last S & RS of any step which ends open. get low, slide R toe out to R Q, L toe to L Q, repeat Q Q. woman mirrors.
Out Out In In: replaces RS of any step which ends open. step L to L ½C, step R to R ½C, step onto L beneath you ½C, step onto R crossing in front of L ½C. woman mirrors.
Jump Break: replaces RS of any step which ends open. jump and raise your feet high under you.
R Scuff: men can replace last S & RS of any step which ends open. facing away from her & standing on L, scuff R foot F & kick it high Q, flex R leg & pivot ½R on L foot Q, step onto R Q, RS in 1C.

OTHER STEPS
Ball Change aka Stomp Off: he taps L then R in 1C, or she taps R then L in 1C.
Drop Boogie: clap hands & get low, tap his L foot 3 Q times (each farther toward L), repeat with R foot (toward R); repeat both claps & feet; RS
Shim Sham Shimmy (someday I'll figure this out): step R foot toward R F & drag it B S, step L foot toward L F & drag it B S, repeat R twice S S. repeat 4 S steps starting on L (L R L L), then 4 more on R (R L R R). Break 8C. turn ¼R & rock F on R Q, back on L Q, repeat rocking Q Q, step F on R Q, kick L over R Q, turn ¼L and step to R on L Q, step to R on R Q. repeat ¼ turn & rocking & kick & step over, but start on L foot & rock to L, total 8C. repeat rocking to R 8C. Break 8C.
After High Kick (from open) both can: turn ¼L & step F on R & get low Q, clap Q, step L beside R Q, turn ½R & step F on R Q, step F on L Q, clap Q, step R beside L Q. She turns ¼L & steps to L Q, RS. He turns ¼L & does a Ball Change Q, RS.
Squat CH: lift R foot behind L knee Q, kick R toward R & step onto R Q, repeat with L foot toward L Q Q, lift R foot behind L knee Q, kick R out toward R Q, place R foot in front of L knee Q, kick R toward R & step onto both Q. arms are out when kicking out, in when foot is in. woman has same footwork.
CH Walk: on each C change from standing normally to dropping slightly and standing pigeon toed with knees in. on each pigeon toed C lift R or L foot to side (stay pigeon toed, low, knees in). can move F or B by placing foot down in front or behind other foot on "normal" steps.
Fall Off the Log: start on 8^th C of music. kick R foot toward R & lean L Q, step R behind L Q, step L toward L & lean R Q, step R toward R Q, tap L toe B Q, turn ½L & kick L F Q, turn ½L & step onto R Q, step onto L Q, rest Q. kick R toward F & L S, tap R toe B S, cross legs (R in front) S, jump & spin 1L Q. repeat mirror image of entire sequence (start with kick L) 16C. repeat first 4C, rest Q, keeping L foot in place, slowly jump up, with arms in air, stepping R foot to L (in front of L leg) S, step L to L & land in Tic Toc position Q, rest Q. Tic Toc to R 8C, RS.
R²: invented by Ross Mernyk & Doug Rosefsky, allows men to swap women in the middle of a dance! Couples jockey in closed position, facing the other couple, waiting for a bar of music. stomp off on 8, RS on 1 & 2 as usual, men cross in front of women to lead 8C swingout into open position, then 8C lindy circle to closed position (again facing other couple). now do T turn sending woman away from you to your R of the other man (RS S S). men pick up women arriving on their left in CH Point position, and continue with Front to Back CH.
R³: like R², but with 3 couples. send woman to your R of the man on your R, pick up woman on your L from man on your L.

THE JITTERBUG STROLL
The overall dance: Jump F on R then L Q, repeat Q, clap Q, jump B on R then L Q, Boogie R F S, Boogie L F S, repeat jumps & Boogies twice 2x8C, Stroll, repeat jumps & Boogies 8C, Break. Lift R leg & slap it with R hand S, repeat with L leg S, Shorty George 4C, repeat slaps & Shorty twice 2x8C, Stroll, repeat slaps & Shorty 8C, Break. SuzieQ to L, to R, to L, Stroll, SuzieQ to L, Break. Tic Toc to R, to L, to R, Stroll, Tic Toc to R, Break. Repeat all the way from the top. Usually done to "One O'clock Jump".
Boogie: take wide S steps F, with attitude, usually starting with L foot. each step touches floor first on toe, then rolls around outside of foot, then heel. women walk sexy / exhibitionist. men walk sexy / tough / bold.
Stroll: big step F on R Q, turn ½L Q, big step F on L S, big step F on R Q, turn ½L Q, big step F on L S.
Break: step to R on R Q, tap L toe behind R Q, step to L on L Q, tap R toe behind L Q, step B on R Q, step L next to R Q, step F on R Q, turn ¼L & step onto L Q.
Shorty George: kick R once & get low Q; take tiny Q steps F, knees & feet almost touching, staying low. knees sway side to side, & are on L on first Q step after kick. lower alternating shoulders & point alternating hands down.
SuzieQ: take Q steps toward L on L ball & R heel, or toward R on R ball & L heel. feet & knees alternate being apart Q, then together Q. when together & moving L, L toe is in R instep & L knee is cradled by R. first Q step knees are apart. have fun with hands, shoulders, head, etc.
Tic Toc: kick R & clap Q, tap R then L Q, repeat Q Q, step R on R & point toes & knees out with arms down & palms F Q, step R on L & point toes & knees in with palms B Q, step R on R & all out Q, step R on L & all in Q. can Tic Toc to L by: kicking on L, tapping L then R, & stepping to L, 8C total.

THE MADISON
Basic step: step F on L Q, tap R toe behind L foot & clap Q, step B on R Q, tap L toe to R Q, to L Q, to R Q. repeat 6C until caller says "hit it" after calling out a step. twist arms opposite hips on toe taps.
2 Up 2 Back: step F on L Q, step ½F on R Q, repeat Q Q, step B on R Q, step ½B on L Q, repeat Q Q. swing arms in unison to match steps. instead of 2 Back, can get back in 2 big steps turning 1L.
Big Turn: step F on L Q, swing R leg far & step F on R Q, turn ½L while R leg still in air & step onto R Q, step L foot B (next to R) Q. repeat 4C.
Double Cross: step F on L S, step R over L S, step L over R S, R over L S, L over R S, raise arms to aim rifle F S, pull trigger S, RS. can duck down during last L over R S, and pop up during raise arms S.
Big Strong M: trace letter M using 4C for each line (16C total), always facing R of M. step F on L Q, step ½F on R Q, repeat Q Q. do next line starting on R foot 4C. repeat for last 2 lines 8C. erase the M by retracing your steps 16C, with first 4C line starting on R foot.
T Time: 2 Up 4C, do a jumping jack Q Q, 2 Back 4C.
Wilt Chamberlin: 2 Up 4C while bouncing a ball with R hand, jump ¼L & take hook shot with R arm S, jump ¼R S, 2 Back 4C. can say "2 points" and hold up 2 fingers on last 4C.
Clevland Box: trace a box using 4C for each line (16C total). step F on L Q, step ½F on R Q, repeat Q Q. turn ¼R & do next line starting on R foot 4C, turn ¾L. repeat all for last 2 lines 8C. can roll hands throughout.
Jackie Gleason: 2 Up 4C while facing R & dropping fists with each step, face F & raise R leg F S, bring R foot B to L of L knee Q, rest Q, charge F onto R Q, rest Q, step B onto L Q, step B onto R Q. can say "away we go" while charging.
Birdland: step L onto L Q, step L onto R behind L Q, step L onto L Q, kick R F Q, bob down & up twice S S. repeat moving R 8C, then L 8C, etc, until caller stops you.

THE SHAG
Basic step: T tightly, switch to waltz hand grip, stand straight up. raise L foot behind R knee Q, step onto L foot Q, raise R foot behind L knee Q, step onto R foot while brushing L foot B Q, step onto L brushing R B Q, step onto R brushing L B Q. woman mirrors. hop on each C. match each other's timing & angles.
Kick Throughs: kick L F Q, step onto L Q, kick R F Q, do brushes Q Q Q. woman mirrors.
Promenade Step: raise L foot B (bending at knee) & twist ¼L & kick L F Q, twist ¼R & step onto L Q, raise R foot B & twist ¼R & kick R F Q, remain twisted to R with L hand high and do brushes Q Q Q. woman mirrors.
Jig Walk: get into cuddle position & kick him L her R S, kick him R her L S, get into closed position & he does high L kick inward & holds it 2C, both RS. can add jump and finish open by: T S, underarm jump (he in place, she with ¾R turn) S, rest S, RS.

OPPOSING CHARLESTON STEPS
Setup: from open, take R hand palm grip & freeze instead of preceding RS.
Opposing CH: kick R toward L S, kick R toward R S, switch to L hands & kick L toward R S, kick L toward L S. repeat both sets of kicks S S S S. woman has same footwork.
Turn ¼L & kick R F S, turn ½L & kick L F S, turn ¼L & continue Opposing CH. lead by throwing her L hand away to his R. woman has same footwork.
Kick Around CH with finish: kick & skip in a small circle behind each of you while turning L. lead by throwing her L hand away to his R. both kick R toward L S, kick L away from each other S. he kicks R toward her S, RS. she kicks R toward him Q, Ball Change Q, RS.
Kick Around CH with Point: kick & skip in a small circle behind each of you while turning L. lead by throwing her L hand away to his R. both kick R toward L S, kick L away from each other S, etc. make him 1 turn (her 1½) in 3 S kicks, then point L foot B S. man is now directly behind woman, & picks up her R hand in his R, & L hand in his L. put L hands F, R hands B & low.

SAME DIRECTION CHARLESTON STEPS
Setup: from open (usually after Rhythm Break), throw her R hand away to his L. extra lead of forcing her L hand toward her R after first kick.
Same Direction CH: his R hand holds her L & kick L toward L S, kick R toward L S, his L hand holds her R & kick R toward R S, kick L toward R S. repeat both sets of kicks 8C. woman mirrors.
CH Lift: his R hand holds her L & kick his L toward L (her R toward R) S, kick his R toward L (her L toward R) S, keep holding her L hand & wrap her ¾L so he is behind her (he can also kick R) S. in 2C she puts her L arm down with elbow locked, he takes her L hand in his L, he puts his R hand on her belly below her R hand, and he pulls her tight to him. both crouch down S. she jumps straight up (don't lean F) while he pushes up on her L arm & leans B (still holding her tight to him) S. he helps lower her slowly S, both kick L leg B S. when she flies she should kick both F & out (trying to get away), while he raises his R knee F or kicks R toward R. can go into Front to Back CH.
Kick Around CH with finish: kick & skip in a small circle behind each of you, while turning him L her R. lead by throwing her L hand away to his L to turn her R. kick toward his L her R (using his L her R foot) S, kick away from each other (his R her L foot) S, kick toward each other (his L her R) Q, Ball Change Q, RS.

SKATING CHARLESTON STEPS
Setup: use a Front to Back CH setup, then he gets close & brings his R hand (& hers) to her belly.
Setup: from OpenR, she does RS while he kicks L foot S. Pull her straight toward him to turn her ½L while he kicks R foot S. He stomps L foot as she arrives against him, taking her L hand in his L, her R hand in his R, & bringing his R hand (& hers) to her belly. hold this position 4C.
Skate: both slide F & L on L foot Q, & hop 3 times F & L on L Q Q Q, then slide F & R on R foot Q, & hop 2 times Q Q, step onto L Q, & R Q, rest Q. must follow with a Skating Turn.
Skating Turn: hopping on R, turn 1R in 3 S kicks (still pressed together): kick L Q & hop, retract L leg Q & hop, repeat kicks & retracts 4C.
Skating Turn (switch who's in front): hopping on R, rear person turns 1R in 3 S kicks, while front person kicks & hops in place: release R hands, kick L Q & hop, retract L leg Q & hop, repeat kicks & retracts 4C. join R hands again, on front person's belly.
Skating Turn (with finish): hopping on R, front person turns 1R in 3 S kicks, while rear person turns ½R: release L hands, kick L Q & hop, retract L leg Q & hop, repeat kick & retracts Q Q, repeat kick Q. he does Ball Change while she steps onto L Q, RS. finish openR.
Skating Turn (separate with finish): hopping on R, front person turns 1½R in 4 S kicks, while rear person turns 1R: separate, kick L Q & hop, retract L leg Q & hop, repeat kicks & retracts 4C, repeat kick Q. he does Ball Change while she steps onto L Q. RS & finish open or openR.

FRONT TO BACK CHARLESTON STEPS
Setup: use Opposing CH ending in CH Point position.
Setup: from OpenR, she does RS while he kicks L foot S. Pull her straight toward him to turn her ½L while he kicks R foot S. Hold her L hand in his L, her R hand in his R, both point L leg B S.
Setup: from OpenR, he pulls her into T but starts moving L & F (letting his R hand trail) S, she free spins 1R while he moves ½ way around her R side turning ½R to face her & picking up her L hand in his L early S. she finishes spin in CH Point position.
Setup: use 8 Count Cradle with his CH. after his L S kick away (her RS): he turns ½L to face her & pulls her straight toward him & turns her ½L & switches her R hand to his R & kicks L foot F (all in 2C). Take her L hand in his L, keep her R in his R, both point L leg B S.
Front to Back CH: kick L F Q, step F onto L Q, kick R F S, kick R B Q, step B onto R Q, kick L B S. repeat 8C. L hand F when R foot F, and vice versa, like walking. bounce or skip with each count.
Front to Back CH with Side Kicks: keep arms low throughout. kick L toward L S, put R hands on her R hip & kick R toward L & step onto R S, kick L toward L S, pivot ¼R & kick L toward R & step onto L S, kick R toward R S, pivot ¼L & kick R toward L & step onto R S, can repeat last 8C. his kicks are all behind her. hand to hip contact helps leads.
Turning CH (switch to man in front): kick L F & release L hand Q, step F onto L Q, lift R hand over her head & both turn ¼L & kick R F S, both turn ¼L & kick R B Q, step B onto R Q, kick L B S. can continue Front to Back CH with him in front.
Turning CH (switch from him in front back to her in front): kick L F & release R hand Q, step F onto L Q, lift L hand over her head (behind him) & both turn ¼L & kick R F S, both turn ¼L & kick R B Q, step B onto R Q, kick L B S. can continue Front to Back CH.
Turning CH (both turn 1L): kick L F & release L hand Q, step F onto L Q, throw R hand over her head fast & both turn ½L & kick R F Q, both turn ½L & hop on L foot Q, kick R B Q, step B onto R Q, kick L B S. can continue Front to Back CH.
Turning CH (switch who's in front holding on): both kick L F Q, both step F onto L Q. keeping R hands high and L low, person in front continues CH while person in back turns 1R hopping on L foot doing 2 R kicks S S, ending standing on R. both kick L B S. can continue Front to Back CH, or immediately switch again.
Turning CH (full turn): raise R hands & lower L hands & kick L F Q, he turns ¼R & both step onto L Q, he turns ¾R coming around her L side to in front of her while both kick R F S, lower R hands & raise L hands while turning him ½R her ½L & kick R B S, kick L B S. can continue Front to Back CH.
CH Lift: both crouch down S, she locks her elbows & jumps straight up (don't lean F) while he pushes up on her arms S, he helps lower her slowly S, both kick L leg B S. when she flies she should spread her legs or kick both F & out. he can kick R leg high between her legs. can continue Front to Back CH.
Get out: kick L F & raise both her arms Q, step F onto L Q, let go of her L hand & pull her R hand to turn her ½R to face him & both RS. finish openR.
Get out: kick L F & raise R arm & let go of her L hand & place his L hand on her back Q, step F onto L Q, pull her R hand to turn her ½R to face him & both RS. finish openR. this is a cool move if you get right back in too!
Get out: hold R hands low and back & both kick L F & she turns ¼R Q, both step onto L while she turns ¼R Q. both continue Kick Around CH to face each other, him turning ½L her turning another ½R, both kicking R then L, S S. RS in open.

FACE TO FACE CHARLESTON STEPS
Setup: from closed, twist her away on preceding RS & switch to waltz hand grip. bring her around into T, holding her firmly (hand & waist) at arm's length S (he can also kick L F during this S).
Face To Face CH: his footwork: kick R F S, kick R B Q, step B onto R Q, kick L B S, kick L F Q, step F onto L Q. her footwork: kick L B S, kick L F Q, step F onto L Q, kick R F S, kick R B Q, step B onto R Q. both repeat 8C.
Get out: repeat first kick (him R F S her L B S) & end standing on his R her L foot. Then he does RS in 2C while twisting her away to lead a full 6C Tuck Turn.

SIDE BY SIDE CHARLESTON STEPS
From cuddle, steer her back in & out: kick outer foot inward S, inner foot outward S, inward twice S S, outward S, inward S, outward twice S S, inward S, outward S, he kicks high inward & holds it 2C, both RS & finish closed. can add jump and finish open by: T S, underarm jump (he in place, she with ¾R turn) S, rest S, RS.
From open, do a Same Direction CH starting with his L kick toward R. then always holding her R hand in his L: kick L toward R S, move toward his R & face each other & pat his R palm to her L & kick R toward her S, can repeat S S kicks, kick L away while turning him 1R her 1L S, kick R toward her S, RS. woman mirrors all kicks.

GOOD SWING CD'S	COMMENTS	GOOD DANCE TRACKS
Blues Jumpers - Wheels Start Turning	Energetic Saxy	1^Q 2^Q 3^Q 5^Q 7^Q 8^Q 9^S 10^Q 11^Q 12
Count Basie & His Orchestra - Basie's Best	Muted Upbeat	1^Q 2^Q 3^Q 5^Q 6^Q 8^Q
Cab Calloway - Are You Hep to the Jive	Big Band Great	1^VQ 2 3^S 4 5^Q 6^Q 7^P 8 9^Q 13^VQ 14 15^S 16^S 18 20^S 21^PQ 22^Q
Cab Calloway - Jumpin Jive	Muted Big Band	1 2^VQ 5 6 8 9 11^VQ 12 13 15 16
Camaros - Evil	Upbeat Saxy	1 2^VQ 3 4^Q 6^Q 9^VQ 11^PQ 12 13
Crescent City Maulers - Screamin'	Energetic	1^VQ 2^Q 3^VQ 4^VQ 5^Q 6^VQ 7^VQ 8^VQ 9^VQ 10^Q 11^Q 13^Q 14^VQ
Eight To The Bar - Beat Me Rocking!	Energetic Swinging	1^Q 3^Q 4 5^Q 6^Q 9^VQ 11^VQ
Nick Palumbo & The Flipped Fedoras	Energetic	1 3^Q 5^Q 6^Q 7^VQ 8 9^VQ 10^Q
The Ray Gelato Giants - The Men From Uncle	Saxy Snazzy
Indigo Swing - All Aboard	Clean Snazzy Great
Joe Jackson - Jumpin Jive	Jive Rock	1^VQ 3^S 4 7 10^Q 11^P
Colin James and The Little Big Band	Upbeat 50's Rock	1^Q 5 6^P 7^VQ 10^Q 11
Louis Jordan - Best of	Classic Swing	1^P 3 4^Q 6 9^Q 17^Q 19^Q
Glenn Miller Orchestra - In The Digital Mood	Clean Swinging Big Band	1^P 2^P 3^P 4^PS 5^P 6^P 7^PS 8^PS 9^PS
Glenn Miller Orchestra - Greatest Hits Live	Very Muted Classic	2 6 7^P 8 9^P 13^Q 14^Q 15 16^P 17 21 23^P
Rocket 88 - Don't Say Goodnight	Clean 50's
Brian Setzer Orchestra	Upbeat Big Band	1^S 2^S 3^Q 4 6 7^S 8 9 10^S 11^Q
Frank Sinatra - Duets I	Clean Upbeat	1^P 4 7 8 11 12^P
Frank Sinatra - Duets II	Clean Upbeat	2^P 6 7^P 8^P 11^P 13
Frank Sinatra - A Swingin Affair	Clean Soft Vocals	1 2 3 5 8^P 9 10 11 13^P 15 16
Lavay Smith & Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers - One Hour Mama	Saxy Sexy	1 2^Q 4^VQ 6^Q 7^S 8 10^Q 11^S
Stray Cats - Rock This Town	Upbeat 50's Rock	1^Q 2^Q 4^Q 5^VQ 6 7 8^VQ 10^Q
Essential Sun Rockabillies - Volume 1	Fast Rockabilly	1^VQ 2^Q 3^VQ 4 5 6^VQ 8 9^VQ 10 13^Q 15 16^Q 18^VQ 20^VQ 21^VQ 23^Q 25^Q

NYC SWING BANDS	MY RATING
Big Joe & The Dynaflows	Bad - slow to moderate
Bim Bam Baby	Great
Blue Saracens	Great
Blues Jumpers	Great - long fast sets
Camaros	Great - long fast songs
Gerard Carelli Orch	Bad - slow and few swing songs
Crescent City Maulers	Great and fast
The Delegates	Good but too much slow
Eight To The Bar	Great
Felix & All The Cats	Great - but very long fast songs
Flipped Fadoras	Great but sometimes slow
George Gee Make Believe Ballroom Orch	Very good
George Gee Jump Jive & Wailers	Very good
Roy Gershon Orch	Good but too much slow
Harlem Renaissance Orch	Very good
High Tops	Recommended
Indigo Swing	Fantastic
Jet Set 6	Very dancable but uninspired
Love Dogs	Not recommended
Phil Miller Big Band	Very good
Rocket 88	Good and fast
Brian Setzer Orch	Recommended
Seven Foot Politic	Good
Sounds of Swing	Bad - mostly slow & Latin
Swing Dolls	OK - uninspired
Yallopin Hounds	Great
Note: All the bands listed here pour their heart and soul into their music. My "rating" only refers to how enjoyable I find the band for dancing Lindy Hop.

T-SHIRT IDEAS
We Just Dance Together
Real Men Let Go On Five
Will Dance For Food

Email: website@rossmernyk.com
Updated: February 20, 1999