7 Ways You Can Help Lindy Hoppers Weather the Pandemic

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Remote recording of Keenan McKenzie and the Riffers

Remote recording of Keenan McKenzie and the Riffers

This is a challenging time for everyone. And the only way we are going to get through it is together. Here are a few ways that you can help your fellow dancers and swing musicians survive and thrive in this era of the pandemic :

1. Contribute

The simplest way to help out is with cold hard cash. The Frankie Manning Foundation has created a special fund to support lindy hop professionals during this time. This FB group lists lots of ways you can help jazz and blues artists with specific needs and challenges.

2. Take workshops and classes with lindy hop instructors

Despite the pandemic, you can still work on your dancing and help out a dance instructor. Swinghire is a new website that helps pair instructors with students. Here’s a Google calendar listing classes and workshops.

3. Go to virtual concerts by swing artists

Lots of swing artists have moved their real life concerts online, like Jonathan Stout’s delightful porchside concerts, and would gladly accept your tips (and applause). Here’s a listing of events around the world that you can attend anywhere you have an internet connection.

4. Buy swing music

bandcamp swing bands.jpg

Buying albums from your favorite swing band is a true win-win for everyone. Our resident expert on swing music Mister Jesse regularly features swing artists’ new albums and songs on his Facebook page. Bandcamp is another good place to find many of your favorite swing artists’ albums. Check out Mister Jesse’s Bandcamp page to start exploring!

5. Buy goods from other lindy hoppers

There are many talented lindy hoppers out there offering clothing, jewelry, shoes, and more. Lindyshopper has links to lots of vendors of vintage, repro and dance appropriate clothing.  Here’s a specific FB group for finding shoes.

6. Offer your services and goods to other dancers

If you have a particular skill or goods to share, let your local community know. Personally, I’m baking a lot, and giving away cake and cookies.

7. Check in on people in your community who might need help

Particularly those who are particularly isolated or vulnerable. A phone call or a Facetime chat can mean the world to someone who is feeling lonely or sad.

There are many other ways to help of course. But this should get you started. What are you doing to help out your fellow dancers in this time?