Lindy Hop
Lindy Hop is the granddaddy of all swing dances. It evolved from the Charleston as swing music came into favor in the 1930's, and flourished in huge ballrooms such as the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem.
The Lindy Hop (or Lindy) is a partner dance that consists of both 8 and 6 count steps which included footwork borrowed from the Charleston and Tap. The dance can be a little crazy, with wild kicks and unexpected body movements, or it can be smooth and silky like gliding across ice. The most important aspects of Lindy are that it is danced with a partner to music and that you have fun and enjoy it.
East Coast Swing
East Coast Swing, most commonly known in its simplified 6-count triple step form, is not a street dance - it is a ballroom studio adaptation, derived from various street swing dancing patterns and styles (especially LINDY HOP) at the height of the Swing Era.
It is a partner dance that has established counts and footwork. It is very controlled and can work with all types of Swing or Jazz music. Often much easier than Lindy Hop, this dance is taught to provide an anchor for swing dance beginners. There are many advanced moves and techniques done in East Coast Swing so even if one is an advanced dancer, they can learn many things.Success in learning East Coast Swing can prepare one adequately for learning and dancing the Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa, and other swing dances.