Ahoy, friends! It’s Finnley, your resident music-loving dolphin, ready to take you on another deep dive into the vibrant waters of sound. Today, we’re exploring something truly special—a jazzy little gem called The Jazz Dance Workout by the legendary Gus Giordano!
One of our amazing listeners, JD, surfaced this treasure after discovering its irresistible rhythms and charm. I’ve worked my fins off to create a fresh transfer of this delightful record, and now it’s time to share it with you. So, whether you’re ready to leap across the dance floor or just tap along, let’s jump into the groove together!
When it comes to the world of jazz dance, few figures stand as tall as Gus Giordano. A pioneer of his craft, Giordano helped shape jazz into a refined art form and a powerful medium for both physical training and creative expression. His influence is beautifully captured in The Jazz Dance Workout: Giordano Technique, a record that embodies his philosophy of movement, rhythm, and artistry.
This album isn’t just about dance—it’s a bridge between music and motion, a dynamic testament to the energy and innovation of Giordano’s teaching. Thanks to a special request from one of our viewers, “JD,” this record has been brought to life in a new episode of Finnley’s Audio Adventures, complete with a high-quality transfer that highlights its timeless appeal.
The cover of The Jazz Dance Workout draws you in immediately. Gus Giordano’s commanding presence—his intense gaze and poised stance—reflects the discipline and creativity that define his technique. The back cover, with its industrial aesthetic and action shot of Giordano mid-movement, reinforces the sense of rigor and precision that his dance style demands. It’s an album that doesn’t just sit quietly on a shelf—it calls out to be explored, heard, and experienced.
Side One focuses on foundational movements, including floor work, barre exercises, and the playful but precise “jazz percussion punch.” Side Two builds on that foundation with more dynamic exercises, such as intricate combinations, soaring leaps, and an improvisational jam to finish.
This structure reflects Giordano’s philosophy: dance is not only a physical act but also a musical and emotional journey. Each track connects the dancer to rhythm, timing, and movement, turning the workout into a full-body expression of jazz.
Gus Giordano’s contributions to jazz dance cannot be overstated. As a dancer, teacher, choreographer, and visionary, he worked tirelessly to elevate jazz to an art form that could stand alongside ballet and modern dance on concert stages worldwide. His unique technique, rooted in clean lines, grounded movements, and powerful expressions, became a cornerstone of the jazz dance world.
Giordano didn’t stop at developing a style—he created institutions to preserve and promote it. He founded the Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago company in the 1960s, as well as the Jazz Dance World Congress in 1990, which brought together dancers and choreographers from around the globe. His impact resonates today through the Giordano Dance School and the ongoing performances of his company.
The exercises on The Jazz Dance Workout reflect Giordano’s holistic approach to dance. Movements begin from the core and flow outward, combining strength and fluidity in a way that is both demanding and deeply satisfying. This record captures not only his technical brilliance but also his belief in the transformative power of dance.
What makes this episode of Finnley’s Audio Adventures even more special is how it came to be. One of our viewers, “JD,” requested The Jazz Dance Workout after a serendipitous discovery in an old DJ set. JD explained:
“I wish it was an interesting story! I heard a bit of it in an old Four Tet DJ set (this one), looked up the album, and the few songs posted to YouTube were delightful.”Intrigued by the music, JD thought about purchasing the record for nearly a year before finally deciding to bring it home. Once they had the album in hand, they began searching for someone who could create a high-quality transfer—and that’s where Finnley’s Audio Adventures came in. JD had previously come across our digitization work while researching the Eastern Airlines promo disc featuring Astrud Gilberto, and they decided to reach out. JD’s story is a reminder of how music connects us across time and inspires us to rediscover and share its treasures.
The Jazz Dance Workout is more than just an instructional record; it’s a piece of history that captures the essence of jazz dance as envisioned by one of its greatest champions. Giordano’s technique, philosophy, and legacy are all embedded in the grooves of this vinyl, making it a must-listen for dancers, music lovers, and anyone curious about the art of movement.
The album offers a unique opportunity to experience the rigor and joy of a Giordano-style class. Whether you’re a professional dancer looking to reconnect with jazz or a curious listener exploring the genre for the first time, this record immerses you in its rhythms, energy, and spirit.
This episode wouldn’t have been possible without listeners like JD, whose passion and curiosity fuel Finnley’s Audio Adventures. JD’s request to revive The Jazz Dance Workout is a testament to the enduring power of music and movement to inspire new generations, and I’m so thrilled to share this incredible record with all of you.
The completed transfer brings Gus Giordano’s brilliance back into the spotlight, capturing the vibrant energy and timeless artistry that made his work so iconic. Whether you’re leaping across the dance floor or simply letting the rhythms move your spirit, this album is more than a workout—it’s a celebration of life, creativity, and the magic of jazz dance.
Big flipper claps to JD for shining a light on this hidden gem and sharing your love of music with us! Now that this record is back in the spotlight, it’s your turn to let the rhythm inspire you. Whether you’re dancing, swaying, or just soaking in the sounds, remember—every beat tells a story, and every groove has a history.
I’ll see you next time for another splash-worthy journey through the sounds of the past. Until then, keep exploring, keep grooving, and always, always keep making waves!
Sources:
“A Look at a Tribute to Gus Giordano.” Dance Spirit, 30 Sept. 2005, https://dancespirit.com/a_look_at_a_tribute_to_gus_giordano/#gsc.tab=0.
“Gus Giordano.” Giordano Dance Chicago, https://www.giordanodance.org/gus-giordano.
Guarino, Lindsay, and Wendy Oliver. “The Legacy of Gus Giordano.” Jazz Dance: A History of the Roots and Branches, University Press of Florida.
Dunning, Jennifer. “Gus Giordano, 84, Innovator of Modern Jazz Dance, Is Dead.” The New York Times, 13 Mar. 2008, https://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/13/arts/dance/13giordano.html.
Clark, Amanda, and Sara Pecina. Dance Appreciation. United Kingdom, Taylor & Francis, 2020.
“Gus Giordano – The Jazz Dance Workout (Giordano Technique).” Discogs, https://www.discogs.com/master/3276703-Gus-Giordano-The-Jazz-Dance-Workout-Giordano-Technique.
