Business Details
18 Years
experience
Learn Swing & Jive Dancing in Guildford
We are Surrey Swing Dance Society, a dedicated team of dance instructors with over three decades of combined experience in swing and Jive dancing. Since establishing our society in 2008, we have focused on making swing dancing accessible to all skill levels through structured classes, social events, and workshops. Our instructors, Ralph and June Dalton, bring extensive expertise from their careers in dance instruction and event coordination, having worked with renowned choreographers and even coached public figures. We prioritise creating a welcoming environment where participants can learn traditional and contemporary dance styles while building community connections. Our classes, held in Guildford and surrounding areas, combine technical instruction with fun, ensuring students develop both skill and confidence.With a commitment to innovation, we integrate modern music into classic swing routines to appeal to younger generations. Our services extend to private dance lessons, wedding choreography, and DJ services, catering to diverse client needs. We maintain strong ties with local venues like G-Live and foster partnerships with dance professionals to enhance our offerings. Our track record includes training pupils who have gone on to establish their own dance academies, demonstrating our impact on the wider dance community. We remain dedicated to promoting physical fitness, social interaction, and cultural appreciation through the art of swing dancing.
Services
Lindy Hop Classes
Jive Instruction
Social Dance Events
Wedding Choreography
Private Dance Lessons
Workshops
DJ Services
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer swing dance instruction since 2008 with proven teaching methods
- Our instructors have trained pupils who established their own dance academies
- We combine traditional swing techniques with modern music for contemporary appeal
- We provide inclusive classes for all skill levels from beginners to intermediates
- We host regular social events to practice dancing in a welcoming environment
Services
Lindy Hop Classes
Our Lindy Hop classes teach this energetic 1930s-origin dance style through progressive weekly sessions. Beginners learn foundational steps while intermediates develop complex moves, all while dancing to classic and modern music. Instructors focus on partner connection, rhythm, and improvisation techniques in a supportive environment that builds both skill and confidence.
Jive Instruction
Structured Jive instruction covers this fast-paced, competition-style dance with emphasis on footwork and timing. Classes incorporate both traditional and contemporary music, teaching students to master kicks, flicks, and syncopated rhythms. Our approach ensures gradual progression while maintaining the fun and energetic character inherent to Jive dancing.
Social Dance Events
Regular weekend social dances provide practical application of learned skills in a lively atmosphere. These events feature themed gatherings, live music, and opportunities to practice various swing styles with different partners. Our community-focused approach helps dancers build social connections while improving their technique in real-world dance scenarios.
Wedding Choreography
Personalised wedding dance lessons create memorable first dances tailored to couples' preferences. We specialise in swing-style routines that combine traditional elegance with modern flair, offering 'ice-breaker' choreography that engages guests. Sessions accommodate varying skill levels and time constraints to ensure stress-free preparation.
Private Dance Lessons
Customised private instruction addresses individual learning needs with focused attention from experienced instructors. These sessions allow accelerated progress, specific technique refinement, or preparation for special events. Our flexible approach caters to personal goals while maintaining the fun and accessibility that defines our teaching philosophy.
People
Ralph Dalton
Instructor & Founder
With 30 years dance experience including 20 years as an instructor, Ralph specialises in Lindy Hop and Jive instruction. He co-founded Surrey Swing Dance Society in 2008 after discovering his passion for swing dancing through social classes. His teaching approach combines technical precision with accessible instruction.
June Dalton
Instructor & Founder
June has been dancing since the 1990s and brings extensive teaching experience to Surrey Swing Dance Society. As co-founder, she manages lesson planning, music curation, and business operations while delivering engaging dance instruction that makes complex techniques accessible to all learners.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We teach Lindy Hop, Jive, Line Dancing, and basic fitness-to-music routines, with classes for absolute beginners to intermediates.
Do I need a dance partner?
No partner is required - we rotate partners during classes to help everyone practice with different dancers in a friendly, inclusive environment.
What should I wear to classes?
Wear comfortable casual clothing and flat-soled shoes that allow easy movement. Avoid high heels or restrictive footwear for safety and comfort.
Can children attend classes?
Children aged 12 and over are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for safety reasons.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes, we offer workshops and social events where students can showcase their skills, plus special themed dance nights throughout the year.
