iSwingTokyo Instructors
Professional, Fun and Friendly...
Senior Instructors:
About Shawn
A well known promoter of Dance and Jazz Music; Shawn is that crazy swing dancer that you see running Events, Lessons, Jams, Performances and Parties. In the past 2 years, Shawn has made a name for himself in Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, Europe and the USA with his passion and dedication to Lindy Hop as a “lead and follow dance.” Coming from a martial arts background, Shawn uses his extensive knowledge of body movement, body mechanics and connection to teach and inspire people to dance and become better at Lindy Hop. His musical training also comes into play in song interpretation and choreography. Shawn’s teaching focuses on the fundamentals of Lead and Follow using natural body movement as the basis of the dance. Shawn’s style has been described as playful, solid, clear and musical. His dancing and philosophy have won the respect of many of the top dancers and instructors in the USA, Europe and Asia.
Shawn has deep and passionate interest in all things musical and physical. Shawn is a performer, musician, actor, teacher and hard-core swing dancer. His impressive background encompasses 15 years of martial arts training (7 years teaching in Japan); professional musician/actor with performances in Boston, Tokyo and New York; studies in musical theater, tap, and gymnastics; and his most recent obsession — swing dancing.
Shawn understands that it can be hard for beginners to get started
dancing: “Yes, it is a bit hard at first (especially for us guys!), but remember, we were all beginners once! At iSwingTokyo, we understand how you feel and will help you to get on the floor and start dancing.” One of Shawn’s true passions is in learning and conveying to students the mechanics of body movement. Outside of swing dancing, Shawn works with a musical theater troupe for Disney’s World of English and lectures English at a 2-year college in Tokyo.
Shawn is the current Director of iSwingTokyo. Shawn is in demand as a teacher and clinician of dance and body movement. Each year, Shawn travels to teach numerous workshops in dance and martial arts in Japan and other countries around the world.
About Chieri
Chieri has studied numerous partner dances including Swing, Argentine Tango, American Style Ballroom, Hussle, Theater Arts, and Jazz. So why did she chose Swing? “It’s all because of Jazz…” she says.
“I hear Jazz music wherever I go, and that makes me want to dance.
So, even when I’m not out to go dancing, I still end up Swinging! That’s what I love most about Swing dancing. “
Chieri always looks for new ways to dance more effortlessly. Her advice to students: “Don’t think too much about it! Just go for it! As you progress, you’ll learn how to make it work for you.”
Credits
Events/Shows: “Dance Party Time”, Belforet Salsa Libre, Chacott Dance Night, Tokyu Dentetsu Event, Bridal Fair, Yokohama Pan-Pacific Hotel Show, Guest Appearance at the Philippines Embassy, Tokyo Retirement Home, and others
TV Appearances: “Mecha-Mecha Ikiteru” and others
Instruction: Aerial Workshop – Assistant Instructor, others
Competition: National Jitterbug Championship, Showcase Division
North East Lindy Hop Championships: 2nd Place, Intermediate Jack and Jill
About Yoshiaki
After graduating from Japan Engineering College in Hachiouji with a Music and Theater Arts major, Yoshiaki entered the prestigious Gekidan-shiki (Japan’s premiere theater arts performance troupe). Yoshiaki then went to New York to further strengthen his dance fundamentals. Upon returning to Japan, he pursued specialization in Swing, Ballroom, Argentine Tango and other partner dances.
Yoshiaki’s classes are light-hearted and fun. He’s known for breaking down steps in a way that anyone can understand. “Swing is all about enjoying the music through the dance,” he says.
Credits
Events/Shows: “Dance Party Time,” Chacott Dance Night, Belforet Salsa Libre, Guest Appearance at the Swedish Embassy, Yokohama Pilot Club Bridal Fair, and others
Instruction: Aerial Workshop – Assistant Instructor
Competition: National Jitterbug Championship – Showcase Division
Assistant Instructors:
About Sachiko
Involved in Swing Dancing for only a short time, Sachiko continues to make a name and place for herself in the Japanese Swing Dance World and abroad. Sachiko’s humble and social personality enables her to help bring the joy of dancing to the many people who come to iSwingTokyo classes. Her explanations are clear and often humorous, her movement easy to see and understand.
Sachiko is perhaps the most “pure” follower in Japan. What you put in (with your lead) is what you get out, not more, not less. Her style focuses on simplicity and grace of movement. Her ability to follow and read her leader’s lead allowed her to take 1st place in the Novice Jack and Jill at the Northeast Lindy Hop Championships this past summer.
