I have a solid dancing background and currently teach other dance. I understand ideas like pushing the ground, paying attention to the follower's responses, interpreting music, etc.

However, I’m new to Swing and unfamiliar with many steps and swing specific techniques. I recently attended a beginner’s workshop where we learned the sugar push beat pattern and a few basic steps.

At the social dance party afterward, I observed the following:

1. Sticking to basic workshop steps: When I led only what I had learned—simple patterns in the 1, 2, 3&4, 5&6 rhythm - each follower understood my lead. But repeating these patterns felt monotonous and didn’t always fit the music well.

2. Adding improvised steps: when I improvised or altered the beat pattern, the dance became more interesting, but I struggled to lead these in a way that worked for Swing. Experienced swing followers seemed confused and didn’t enjoy my improvisation.

Interestingly, when dancing with beginner Swing followers who were skilled in other dance styles, they followed my improvisations and appeared to enjoy the variety.

For now, with my current background (until I learn more), how can I approach dancing Swing in a way that’s enjoyable for the follower? Specifically, how would you recommend to dance with

1. A beginner who has no prior dance experience?

2. A skilled dancer who’s new to Swing?

3. A skilled Swing dancer?