Street Jazz vs. Commercial Dance: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been looking for dance classes in NYC, you’ve probably seen “Street Jazz” and “Commercial Dance” listed on studio schedules. They sound similar — and sometimes overlap — but each has its own unique vibe. At Methodz, we offer both, and here’s how to tell the difference:

Street Jazz

Street Jazz fuses the technique and precision of jazz with the groove and attitude of street styles like hip hop. Expect sharp lines, dynamic musicality, and high-energy combos that make you feel like you’re dancing in a music video.

Commercial Dance

Commercial Dance is the style you’ll see on stage with artists, in tours, or on TV. It’s about performance quality, stage presence, and adaptability. Commercial classes often mix multiple styles — jazz, hip hop, contemporary — into choreography that’s built for the spotlight.

✨ The takeaway: If you want to sharpen your lines and groove with attitude, try Street Jazz classes in Brooklyn. If you’re looking to train like a backup dancer, Commercial Dance is your stage.