The Swing Era
Lindy Hop, Balboa, Charleston & Solo Jazz classes, workshops and socials in B…
A swing dance studio offering instruction in East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, and related swing styles.
Before your first class
No partner needed, no experience required, all ages welcome—beginners are explicitly welcomed.
About this studio
The Swing Era is a Birmingham-based swing dance school founded in 2014 by dancer and musician Martyn Nelson. The school teaches authentic 1920s, 1930s and 1940s vintage swing dance styles: Lindy Hop, Balboa, Collegiate Shag, Charleston, and Solo Jazz. Lindy Hop is their main focus—described as the mother of all swing dances—but they're passionate about all swing styles.
Classes are structured in three levels: Beginner Fundamentals Lindy Hop, Intermediate Improvers Lindy Hop, and Advanced Adventures Lindy Hop. The school runs 6-week courses throughout the year, with additional 4-week summer courses. Drop-in classes are also available, alongside private lessons and day workshops. Next courses start 3 September, with places limited. Beginners need no partner and no prior experience—the school welcomes all ages and emphasises a playful, musical approach.
The Swing Era hosts regular social events and dances across Birmingham. Every Thursday they run a free event at The Dark Horse. The school also organises seasonal socials including Spookeasy (31 October 2026) and a Christmas Party (20 December 2026). Workshops feature visiting instructors: in December 2026, Leigh Richards and Scott Cupit lead high-level Lindy Hop training focused on 8-count technique, musicality and social dancing confidence. Solo Jazz instruction from visiting teacher Trisha Sewell has also been offered.
Founder Martyn Nelson's philosophy is that "if everyone danced the world would be a better place—everybody should experience the gift of dance at least once in their lives." His passion for dancing to live music led him to form his own swing dance band, Martyn Nelson and the Rhythm Remedies, in 2016, which regularly performs at local and national events. Scott Cupit now assists Martyn as the school has grown to accommodate a large, diverse and passionate community of dancers.
What to expect
Your first visit
Drop in to a class suited to your level, from Beginner Fundamentals through to Advanced Adventures. You'll learn partnered Lindy Hop or other swing styles in a welcoming, playful environment. No partner needed, no experience required. The school describes its community as friendly and fun-focused, with patient teachers and a culture where perfection is optional.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Founder Martyn Nelson leads the school as dancer and musician. Scott Cupit assists him. The school has a wealth of talented teachers on its collective. Visiting instructors have included Leigh Richards and Scott Cupit (high-level Lindy Hop workshops) and Trisha Sewell (Solo Jazz).
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
No partner needed, no experience required, all ages welcome—beginners are explicitly welcomed.
Studio history
Founded in 2014 by Martyn Nelson, a dancer and musician who discovered swing dancing in 2008. The school began with one weekly drop-in class and expanded to meet growing demand from Birmingham's Lindy Hop community. In 2016, Martyn formed his own swing dance band, Martyn Nelson and the Rhythm Remedies, to bring live music to social dancing.
Styles offered
8 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
The Swing Erahasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own The Swing Era, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about The Swing Era
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does The Swing Era teach?
The Swing Era teaches Swing, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, Balboa, Collegiate Shag and 2 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is The Swing Era located?
The Swing Era is located in Birmingham. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does The Swing Era offer private lessons?
Contact The Swing Era directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does The Swing Era teach kids and adults?
The Swing Era welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at The Swing Era?
The fastest path is to visit The Swing Era via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.