Enter the Blues presents: Enter the Blues 4, May 21-23, 2010
Mike Marcotte
Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Mike Marcotte discovered dancing in 1999 near the height of the swing craze. He first took lessons from the same person he teaches with today, Donna Barker. Together they helped cultivate a blues dancing scene in Washington and have been teaching lindy and blues together for over seven years. Lately, he has
worked hard with Capital Blues to put on great blues events like bamBLOOZled and Red Hot Blues 'n BBQ in addition to hosting a weekly dance every Thursday at Glen Echo's Back Room.
Mike's father fostered an appreciation for jazz at an early age. A student of classical cello and jazz piano in high school, it was only natural that he got more involved with the music as a DJ after starting as a dancer. He learned the most under the wing of Rayned Wiles at K2, and before long was working events across the country including every DCLX, Philly Lindy Love, St. Louis Blues Lindy Exchange, Frankie 95, and many others. After collaborating with Glenn Scales and Jerry Almonte at the Virginia State Open and ALHC, other competitions inquired about Mike's expertise. He is honored that Nina Gilkenson and Tena Morales asked him to be the Head Competition DJ for the first two years of ILHC.
Whether it's Blues or Swing, Mike likes a dance floor that's having fun, feeling challenged yet inspired. Usually, if the dancers are having fun then so is the DJ. He tends to draw from a variety of genres as he puts together a set. While creating a groove is important, mixing it up -- something learned well from Rayned -- always keeps things interesting. This is a DJ who loves to dance, so don't hesitate to ask him in the middle of a set!
worked hard with Capital Blues to put on great blues events like bamBLOOZled and Red Hot Blues 'n BBQ in addition to hosting a weekly dance every Thursday at Glen Echo's Back Room.
Mike's father fostered an appreciation for jazz at an early age. A student of classical cello and jazz piano in high school, it was only natural that he got more involved with the music as a DJ after starting as a dancer. He learned the most under the wing of Rayned Wiles at K2, and before long was working events across the country including every DCLX, Philly Lindy Love, St. Louis Blues Lindy Exchange, Frankie 95, and many others. After collaborating with Glenn Scales and Jerry Almonte at the Virginia State Open and ALHC, other competitions inquired about Mike's expertise. He is honored that Nina Gilkenson and Tena Morales asked him to be the Head Competition DJ for the first two years of ILHC.
Whether it's Blues or Swing, Mike likes a dance floor that's having fun, feeling challenged yet inspired. Usually, if the dancers are having fun then so is the DJ. He tends to draw from a variety of genres as he puts together a set. While creating a groove is important, mixing it up -- something learned well from Rayned -- always keeps things interesting. This is a DJ who loves to dance, so don't hesitate to ask him in the middle of a set!
Rachel Stirling
Rachel got her first taste of blues dancing at a late night party in 2003. She was immediately drawn in by the impassioned music and sensual movement. She loved (and still does!) to swing dance, but she found this dance had a more intimate connection to one's partner and the music; it encouraged improvisation and playfulness. She was hooked. Since 2005, she's been dedicated to promoting blues dancing in the DC area and beyond and helping run Capital Blues events (Cabin Fever, Jammin' the Blues, Red Hot Blues 'n BBQ, bamBLOOZled, and a weekly Thursday night dance). Rachel loves to share her joy of blues dancing with anyone who'll let her. In her classes, she focuses on quality of movement and connection with one's partner and the music. And thanks to a degree in education, she has a knack for breaking things down and explaining them in a variety of ways so that everyone can understand.
To see Mike and Rachel's availability for private lessons at the weekend, scroll through the calendar (you can click "Look for more") until you see the right date. Then email him at mike.marcotte at gmail to schedule, before all the spots are gone!
Cost: $45 for Mike or Rachel, $75 for Mike and Rachel. They'll pay your floor fee, so thank them!
Cost: $45 for Mike or Rachel, $75 for Mike and Rachel. They'll pay your floor fee, so thank them!