If you’ve ever been line dancing, you’ve probably heard of the “jazz box.” But have you ever stopped to wonder why it's called that when, well, it doesn’t actually make a box? Let’s take a deeper look at this dance move, and how it relates to the often-forgotten term “jazz triangle.” Spoiler alert: It might change the way you think about this classic step!
How do you perform the jazz box*? The jazz box is created by stepping: 1 - forward, 2 - across, 3 - back, 4 - side. To hit the four corners we step: R foot to top L, L foot to top R, R foot to bottom R, L foot to bottom L. Notice your feet begin and end apart. How do you perform the jazz triangle*? The jazz triangle is created by stepping: 1 - across, 2 - back, 3 - side, 4 - together (close). To touch all three corners you step: R across L, L back L, R side R, L next to R. Notice your feet begin and end together. Honestly, I don't use the term jazz triangle as I should. It is the most common dance move in line dancing but I am hard pressed to find the term jazz triangle on modern step sheets. I should say, "jazz triangle" because it's 4 syllables to match the 4 counts, but honestly, when I'm calling, I just say "jazz" because I want 3 counts to catch my breath! What terminology do you use and how do you call the most common move in line dancing? *Reference: NTA Dance Terminology Booklet and Study Guide 2019
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Sherry BarrettStay updated with where I am teaching and the dances I teach. I will also explain difficult steps and help you grow your dance knowledge. Archives
March 2025
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