We’re wrapping up our month of guest instructors and DJs with a special treat… this Thursday, we have Carsie Blanton of Philadelphia teaching a hour-and-a-half long all-level class (beginner, intermediate, and advanced dancers are all welcome!) on the history of Blues music and the dances that have evolved alongside it! Check out the class description:

We all love Blues music, because it makes us want to dance! But have you ever wondered how Blues music came to be, what the different styles of Blues are called, and how to change your dancing to match them? If so, this class will begin to satisfy your curiosity. We’ll discuss the history of Blues music, and listen to examples of many styles, including Delta, Piedmont, Texas, Chicago, New Orleans, Urban, R&B, Jump, and Slow Jazz. We’ll also teach the different ways of moving and connecting appropriate to different styles.

In case you’re wondering about Carsie’s background, here’s her self-description:

Carsie Blanton is a musician first, and a dancer second. She loves the feeling of a truly connected dance, and of a truly graceful movement, but most of all she loves using her body as a musical instrument, contributing new textures and rhythms to a great song. In her real life, she is a singer/songwriter, and travels the world performing her original music (www.carsieblanton.com).

Our own Paul Mandel will be assisting her in the class that runs from 7:30 to 9:00, and then Carsie and Julie Brown will be teaming up to DJ for us!

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a special event, and we will not be having a beginner class as usual at 8:15. All beginners are welcome to attend this all-level Blues History class.

As usual, the class is $5, and the dance afterwards is $5.