What is Modern Jive and how does it compare to WCS?

[Andy McGregor]

II'm saying that claiming 'One true way' for footwork is wrong.

That is where we differ. I see MJ as a branch of Jive, the American bit of Latin American dance. All the Latin American dances are clearly described and have only one basic. That's what makes them easy to learn. Saying "do what you like" leaves a lot of scope to get it wrong.

However, just because there's a set basic doesn't mean there can't be variations. It's the same in all partner dances, you need to walk before you can run. And the MJ basic is IMHO, walking. (note, no smiley)

As I've explained twice already (in this thread, and countless times on this forum).
The only reason we are in disagreement, is because you claim that your teaching of footwork is the best, a fact that has been demonstrated false.

I'm not claiming anything of the sort. I change the way I teach on a regular basis and I'm always improving and striving to get better. The most recent change was January this year. I'm being the best I can be, but I'm never arrogant enough to think my teaching is the best or won't get better.

Why we disagree is beyond me. I've based what I teach on observation. I observe what's going on at MJ dances and teach people to join in with the dance I see. I'm not trying to change the dance. I'm trying to find the best communication methods to teach beginners to do the dance I see in real life. Franck may be many steps ahead of me as an innovator at the cutting edge or even the bleeding edge of MJ. But I'm simply teaching what I see.

And I do teach footwork variations. But I don't teach them as the basic. I'm very clear on this.

[Gerry]

Hiya Andy
I have been told by a lot of people that I am a good MJ dancer, that is their impression. All my MJ'iving is done in a circle, I think the reason for this is that I have not been taught any "proper or defined" footwork. I would have to say I rarely find a girl or boy that I can't lead and have an enjoyable dance with. Does this mean I am a poor dancer because I don't move my feet correctly.
I an happily dance WCS in a slot because I have been taught to move my feet, unfortunately I am still working hard on keeping them moving, it often feels that I am wearing shoes made of lead. I would say my WCS has improved my understanding of frame and knowing how to lead and ensuring the follower is on the correct foot.
PS
I would love to see your new video on footwork Andy.

[Andy McGregor]

Gerry, your footwork in MJ is a fine example of the footwork I teach. You lead the lady in exactly the way I teach and do nothing to interrupt her correct footwork. Dancing in a circle or keeping off the lady's line is nothing to do with weight changes or timing. From your post it seems that this is unknowing competence on your part.

One thing to consider is that you might have found it easier to learn WCS if, as part of your MJ lessons, you'd been taught footwork, frame, timing, etc.

Speaking personally, I found it strange to come to MJ and be told to forget all about timing, footwork, frame, etc

[Andy McGregor]

I'm saying that claiming 'One true way' for footwork is wrong.

I've reviewed Robert Winter's video again. It seems that Robert is saying that there's one true way to fit MJ to the music.

[Franck]

I've reviewed Robert Winter's video again. It seems that Robert is saying that there's one true way to fit MJ to the music.

There you go, straw-manning again... I said one true way for footwork, and you then say "one true way to fit MJ to the music"... I have no idea what parallel universe you inhabit, but hey, nothing changes.

I'm happy that people use a marching / step on every beat pattern when dancing, learning, I just think it is counterproductive to tell them which foot they should be on at all time and codify this system in the 'One true way'.

[Andy McGregor]

I'm happy that people use a marching / step on every beat pattern when dancing, learning, I just think it is counterproductive to tell them which foot they should be on at all time and codify this system in the 'One true way'.

I think I see a glimmer of agreement. I'm not saying a weight change on every beat is the "one true way". I'm saying it's the basic. However, I AM saying there's only one basic in MJ.