People who dance ballroom is very familiar with the dance style referred to as a 'Waltz'. In most ballroom competitions, this form of dance is actually pretty popular, and is performed along with other dance styles. Unfortunately, not a lot of people know much about Waltz aside from the fact that ballroom dancers perform this style of dance. That is pretty much the extent of their knowledge about it. This article aims to give you more information about this particular dance style.
Origin
The Waltz dance style is actually derived and has evolved from two different Austrian styles of peasant dances from the 18th century, namely, the walzer and landler. During those ancient times, peasant dances were performed wherein the man and woman danced in a way that they were having close contact to one another, as compared to upper class dances, wherein the partners always kept a certain distance between them as they performed their dances.
Now that the peasant dances have evolved from what it was before, some of their basic dance moves are now replaced with different styles and methods. An example of this is the replacement of stomping and clomping with gliding, giving these modern versions of the old dances a sense of smoothness and gracefulness in their movements.
Waltz Basic Steps
There are actually a lot of different steps that you can use when dancing Waltz. You can actually use a variation of different steps. However, all these different variations and different steps can be taken from six basic steps in Waltz. These six basic steps are actually referred to as the Waltz basic box step. Master these four steps and you should be able to dance the Waltz already. Add a little bit of your own variations, direction changes and lifts, and you should be able to come up with a dance step that is more complex.
The Waltz Basic Box Step
Basically, you perform the Waltz basic box step with two complete one-two-three counts. What happens is that the person leading the dance steps first with his left foot, while the follower steps the right foot back at the same time. After that, the leader then steps to the right using his right foot, and the follower simply follows the leader and steps her left foot in the same direction. Then, they both simply close their feet together, with the leader bringing his left foot together with his right, and the follower bringing her right foot together with her left.
The leader then steps back using his right foot, and the follower simply steps forward with her left foot. After which, the leader then steps his left foot to the left, and the follower does the same with her right foot. Then they close out the steps by simply closing their feet together, wherein the leader simply brings his right foot together with his left, and the follower does the same, bringing her left foot together with her right.
Types Of Waltz
There are actually a lot of different kinds of Waltz dances. You have slow versions of the Waltz called the Slow Waltz, and you also have faster versions of it, such as the Viennese Waltz. Some styles of Waltz require that you only have closed figures while performing the routine, while others allow for more movement and variations in posture and form.
Where Can You Learn Waltz?
There are actually a lot of places wherein you can learn Waltz. Dance studios, especially those that offer ballroom lessons, would be able to provide you with some assistance with regards to this. You simply need to enroll in a class, and find a partner to dance with, and you should be on your way.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Tango
If there is one dance style that a lot of couples would like to learn, that is Tango. This dance style that originated from Montevideo, Uruguay, and more commonly, from Buenos Aires, Argentina, is a dynamic but very sensual type of ballroom dance style that exudes Spanish and African influences. Nowadays, there are a lot of different Tango dance styles, some of which are being used in ballroom competitions. However, these Tango dance styles that are being used in ballrooms are very different from Argentine Tango, as these more modern styles of Tango are easier to codify.
Tango Styles
There are a bunch of different Tango dance styles that have developed over the years, each one varying in technique and style. These differences are made even clearer as different influences, like fashions in clothing and music, differ from each and every Tango dance style. Some of the more well known Tango dance styles are Tango Argentino, which is basically one of the original Tango dance styles, Tango Oriental, Tango Liso, Tango Canyengue, Tango Orillero, Tango Salon, Tango Nuevo, Tango Milonguero, Show Tango, Finnish Tango, and Ballroom Tango. All these different Tango dance styles are danced using different types of music, such as Tango Electronico, Vals, Milonga, Alternative Tango, and simply Tango.
Ballroom Style Tango
One of the more popular styles of Tango dance is called Ballroom Tango. It is actually divided into two different styles, namely, the 'English' or 'International' Tango dance style and the 'European' Tango dance style. The English Tango dance style also evolved and created another style, which is the American Tango. Basically, English Tango more of a competitive style of dancing, while American Tango developed as a form of social dance that is more focused on the concept of leading and following skills of the dancers.
Basic Tango Steps
The most basic beginning for most Tango dance styles involves a slow-slow-quick-quick-slow counting, wherein the slow counts are held for about two beats, while the quick counts are only held for one. Performing this form of dance requires you to not drag or shuffle your feet, but rather, you need to strike the floor with your feet fairly quickly, sometimes referred to as staccato. However, you can drag or shuffle your feet during the final slow count. You should also keep your knees bent for most of the time that you are dancing Tango, however, a few exceptions can be made, depending on the routine.
Basic Tango Posture
There are basically two types of postures when dancing, which are basically either a closed dance position or an open dance position. When dancing Tango, you usually use the closed dancing position. This means that the partners are in a close hold to one another, wherein they need to maintain contact from their hips up to their ribcage. If you are still a beginner, you can actually keep a little bit of distance between you and your partner. Once you become more adept to dancing this style, then you can start dancing in the close position.
Benefits Of Tango
Research has shown that Tango, more specifically Argentine Tango, is able to help heal certain neurological diseases, one in particular is Parkinson's disease. Certain Tango movements, such as turning, moving at various speeds, dynamic balance, walking backwards and initiating movements, are all relevant in improving your balance, memory, heart health, as well as assist in losing some weight.
Tango Styles
There are a bunch of different Tango dance styles that have developed over the years, each one varying in technique and style. These differences are made even clearer as different influences, like fashions in clothing and music, differ from each and every Tango dance style. Some of the more well known Tango dance styles are Tango Argentino, which is basically one of the original Tango dance styles, Tango Oriental, Tango Liso, Tango Canyengue, Tango Orillero, Tango Salon, Tango Nuevo, Tango Milonguero, Show Tango, Finnish Tango, and Ballroom Tango. All these different Tango dance styles are danced using different types of music, such as Tango Electronico, Vals, Milonga, Alternative Tango, and simply Tango.
Ballroom Style Tango
One of the more popular styles of Tango dance is called Ballroom Tango. It is actually divided into two different styles, namely, the 'English' or 'International' Tango dance style and the 'European' Tango dance style. The English Tango dance style also evolved and created another style, which is the American Tango. Basically, English Tango more of a competitive style of dancing, while American Tango developed as a form of social dance that is more focused on the concept of leading and following skills of the dancers.
Basic Tango Steps
The most basic beginning for most Tango dance styles involves a slow-slow-quick-quick-slow counting, wherein the slow counts are held for about two beats, while the quick counts are only held for one. Performing this form of dance requires you to not drag or shuffle your feet, but rather, you need to strike the floor with your feet fairly quickly, sometimes referred to as staccato. However, you can drag or shuffle your feet during the final slow count. You should also keep your knees bent for most of the time that you are dancing Tango, however, a few exceptions can be made, depending on the routine.
Basic Tango Posture
There are basically two types of postures when dancing, which are basically either a closed dance position or an open dance position. When dancing Tango, you usually use the closed dancing position. This means that the partners are in a close hold to one another, wherein they need to maintain contact from their hips up to their ribcage. If you are still a beginner, you can actually keep a little bit of distance between you and your partner. Once you become more adept to dancing this style, then you can start dancing in the close position.
Benefits Of Tango
Research has shown that Tango, more specifically Argentine Tango, is able to help heal certain neurological diseases, one in particular is Parkinson's disease. Certain Tango movements, such as turning, moving at various speeds, dynamic balance, walking backwards and initiating movements, are all relevant in improving your balance, memory, heart health, as well as assist in losing some weight.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Square Dancing
Square dance is a classic art and dance form that was popularly paired with country and western American music. It involves vigorous dance routines in a single set that is performed by a group of four couples. Hence, each could make up one side of the square, which explains the name for this particular dance style.
When performing square dance, there is a caller nearby that calls out instructions to the dancers through the microphone to ensure cooperation amongst all dancers. Thus, the dancers on the floor has to perform whatever dance moves, spins, steps, and turns that is being called out by the instructor.
History and Evolution
This dance form has a long history that dates back to the 17th century, wherein it evolved from a different dance style known as quadrille. It also distinctively featured dance moves extracted from the Morris dance that was innovated around the same time period. As this particular dance style grew on popularity and was introduced in the US, more steps were added and some regions might even have their own variety that is distinct from the others. As it was introduced in the west, more square dancing forms were developed.
The traditional form of square dancing was most popular in the Appalachians, though. It often involves clogging and could either be done in quadrille form or not, but are combined with Scottish or Irish music. The western variety of square dance was distinct for its use of intricate footworks, which depend on the moves being called out by the caller on a microphone. Between 18th to 19th century in the US, this dance form was performed informally.
Role of Instructor or Caller
The caller plays one of the most vital roles during performance of square dance, hence each aspiring dancer need to understand what their role is. The main rule in square dancing is simple: listen to the caller!
Aside from calling out the moves to be performed by the caller on the floor, it is also the caller's responsibility to gauge the progress of a student. This will help a student's learning pace and to speed up the process of improvement with their learning. Hence, student dances are often recommended by callers for beginners to ensure that they begin at a level that they can handle.
Square Dance Lesson
When you choose to enter into a square dance lesson, it is important to equip yourself with the basic knowledge of what goes on during each session so you can come into each class well prepared. Most square dance lessons are sponsored by dance clubs that specialize in this particular dance style. As the caller instructs basic calls, the student gradually makes their way to the mainstream level. From the mainstream level, you move onto the Plus level.
The period of transition between each dance level would vary based on the intensity of the classes, number of students, and the skill level of the student. The level at which the caller is teaching could also be an important factor. It is not only beginners that enroll into a square dance lesson, experienced square dancers also attend these classes with the hope of learning new techniques and enhancing their skill level.
Enrolling into a Square Dance Lesson
If you are interested in attending a square dance session, below are some tips on finding classes to enroll into. Furthermore, you need to consider basic factors when choosing the right class for you:
' You can inquire into existing dance clubs in your area and ask if they offer classes for beginners. Obtain contact details of the individuals concerned and ask them about specifications to your class.
' Ask them about the frequency of your class. Some might be held daily or bi-weekly, so you must choose depending on your personal schedule.
' Inquire into the cost of the program, as well as the mode of payment.
' Look into possibly getting free lessons, on top of your regular sessions.
' Seek professional opinion from square dancers about the level at which you must begin with. Hence, you can adapt learning at your own natural pace and have more fun with your square dance lessons.
When performing square dance, there is a caller nearby that calls out instructions to the dancers through the microphone to ensure cooperation amongst all dancers. Thus, the dancers on the floor has to perform whatever dance moves, spins, steps, and turns that is being called out by the instructor.
History and Evolution
This dance form has a long history that dates back to the 17th century, wherein it evolved from a different dance style known as quadrille. It also distinctively featured dance moves extracted from the Morris dance that was innovated around the same time period. As this particular dance style grew on popularity and was introduced in the US, more steps were added and some regions might even have their own variety that is distinct from the others. As it was introduced in the west, more square dancing forms were developed.
The traditional form of square dancing was most popular in the Appalachians, though. It often involves clogging and could either be done in quadrille form or not, but are combined with Scottish or Irish music. The western variety of square dance was distinct for its use of intricate footworks, which depend on the moves being called out by the caller on a microphone. Between 18th to 19th century in the US, this dance form was performed informally.
Role of Instructor or Caller
The caller plays one of the most vital roles during performance of square dance, hence each aspiring dancer need to understand what their role is. The main rule in square dancing is simple: listen to the caller!
Aside from calling out the moves to be performed by the caller on the floor, it is also the caller's responsibility to gauge the progress of a student. This will help a student's learning pace and to speed up the process of improvement with their learning. Hence, student dances are often recommended by callers for beginners to ensure that they begin at a level that they can handle.
Square Dance Lesson
When you choose to enter into a square dance lesson, it is important to equip yourself with the basic knowledge of what goes on during each session so you can come into each class well prepared. Most square dance lessons are sponsored by dance clubs that specialize in this particular dance style. As the caller instructs basic calls, the student gradually makes their way to the mainstream level. From the mainstream level, you move onto the Plus level.
The period of transition between each dance level would vary based on the intensity of the classes, number of students, and the skill level of the student. The level at which the caller is teaching could also be an important factor. It is not only beginners that enroll into a square dance lesson, experienced square dancers also attend these classes with the hope of learning new techniques and enhancing their skill level.
Enrolling into a Square Dance Lesson
If you are interested in attending a square dance session, below are some tips on finding classes to enroll into. Furthermore, you need to consider basic factors when choosing the right class for you:
' You can inquire into existing dance clubs in your area and ask if they offer classes for beginners. Obtain contact details of the individuals concerned and ask them about specifications to your class.
' Ask them about the frequency of your class. Some might be held daily or bi-weekly, so you must choose depending on your personal schedule.
' Inquire into the cost of the program, as well as the mode of payment.
' Look into possibly getting free lessons, on top of your regular sessions.
' Seek professional opinion from square dancers about the level at which you must begin with. Hence, you can adapt learning at your own natural pace and have more fun with your square dance lessons.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Modern Ballet
When people are asked about which type of ballet style they would like to learn how to dance, most of them said that they would like to learn how to dance modern ballet. However, when I asked them what modern ballet really was, most of them could not even clearly define to me what modern ballet was. If you are one of those people who want to learn more about this particular dance style, then you are in luck. This article will provide you with some information about modern ballet.
Style Of Modern Ballet
For those people who do not know much about modern ballet, it is actually a form of dance that traces its roots on influences made by both classical ballet and modern dance styles. Although it does not have a specific, well-defined 'technique' that would differentiate it from classical ballet, it does take certain techniques from classical ballet, such as the pointework, and combines it with the fewer restrictions of body movement and range of motion that modern dance styles offer.
Usually, modern ballet uses turned-in positions, as well as more innovative styles and moves. This means that the dancer is able to interpret and use ballet concepts and apply them in more modern styles.
Origin Of Modern Ballet
Modern ballet is believed to have been influenced by George Balanchine, a person considered to be the pioneer developer of the modern ballet dance style. His style of modern ballet actually uses different techniques, such as flexing hands and legs, using off-balanced positions, and the turned-in legs. His style also uses different non-classical costumes, such as tunics, unitards and leotards. Later on, Balanchine's style of ballet developed into a style that was influenced by Baryshnikov, and then developed into a more modern and contemporary style of ballet.
Similarities With Classical Ballet
As mentioned earlier, modern ballet has taken some things from classical ballet, which is why it isn't that far fetched to think that there are some certain similarities between them. One of their similarities is that both dance styles uses the French language for some of their dance terms and vocabularies. Both dance styles uses well trained dancers that are equipped in terms of technique and performance. Also, both dance styles have a very strong affinity and connection to music.
Difference With Classical Ballet
Although both dance styles are pretty similar in a couple of things, they do have certain differences that helps create a distinction between the two dance styles. One of the main distinction between the two styles is that modern ballet focuses more on the movement of the dancers instead of the storyline of the performance.
In terms of style, modern ballet does not focus too much on symmetry, as evidenced on how modern ballet performances seem to disregard the balance on the stage. Also, modern ballet dancers allow their body to twist and bend and curve as they dance, whereas classical ballet dancers try to maintain an upright posture by keeping their backs straight.
Which Is Better?
Although these two ballet dance styles are pretty different from each other, they actually both have their own good aspects and bad characteristics. It all boils down to personal preference. You just need to pick one that would work best for your style of dance.
Style Of Modern Ballet
For those people who do not know much about modern ballet, it is actually a form of dance that traces its roots on influences made by both classical ballet and modern dance styles. Although it does not have a specific, well-defined 'technique' that would differentiate it from classical ballet, it does take certain techniques from classical ballet, such as the pointework, and combines it with the fewer restrictions of body movement and range of motion that modern dance styles offer.
Usually, modern ballet uses turned-in positions, as well as more innovative styles and moves. This means that the dancer is able to interpret and use ballet concepts and apply them in more modern styles.
Origin Of Modern Ballet
Modern ballet is believed to have been influenced by George Balanchine, a person considered to be the pioneer developer of the modern ballet dance style. His style of modern ballet actually uses different techniques, such as flexing hands and legs, using off-balanced positions, and the turned-in legs. His style also uses different non-classical costumes, such as tunics, unitards and leotards. Later on, Balanchine's style of ballet developed into a style that was influenced by Baryshnikov, and then developed into a more modern and contemporary style of ballet.
Similarities With Classical Ballet
As mentioned earlier, modern ballet has taken some things from classical ballet, which is why it isn't that far fetched to think that there are some certain similarities between them. One of their similarities is that both dance styles uses the French language for some of their dance terms and vocabularies. Both dance styles uses well trained dancers that are equipped in terms of technique and performance. Also, both dance styles have a very strong affinity and connection to music.
Difference With Classical Ballet
Although both dance styles are pretty similar in a couple of things, they do have certain differences that helps create a distinction between the two dance styles. One of the main distinction between the two styles is that modern ballet focuses more on the movement of the dancers instead of the storyline of the performance.
In terms of style, modern ballet does not focus too much on symmetry, as evidenced on how modern ballet performances seem to disregard the balance on the stage. Also, modern ballet dancers allow their body to twist and bend and curve as they dance, whereas classical ballet dancers try to maintain an upright posture by keeping their backs straight.
Which Is Better?
Although these two ballet dance styles are pretty different from each other, they actually both have their own good aspects and bad characteristics. It all boils down to personal preference. You just need to pick one that would work best for your style of dance.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Lindy Hop
The Lindy Hop is said to be the grandfather of modern swing. This dance is a popular routine back in the 1920s, along the time when jazz music is the latest craze. Being a member of the Swing family, we can safely say that Lindy Hop originated as one of the branches of African American dance culture.
History
The history of Lindy Hop can be broken down into three stages -- the peak of the Swing era from 1920 to 1940, its evolution in 1950, and its revival in the 1980s.
This dance routine is said to originate from the black community in Harlem, New Work back in the 1920s. In-depth study of this style has broken down its routines into a combination of Charleston, breakaway, hop, and Texas Tommy. Around the 1930's, Lindy Hop is at the peak of its popularity.
This dance routine is quite popular in the many bars and dancing studios in various cities in the United States. However, it later stagnated when dancing was strongly disapproved due to the heavy tax sanction against bars and dancing halls.
Lindy Hop Today
Today, Lindy Hop is one of the few social dances performed in local regions. It did not reach the stage like other dances that evolved and accepted in various circles in modern society. This dance routine is performed mostly in private and public social events, dance competitions, and other dance performances. The maneuver can be done solo or with a partner.
Techniques
Considering that Lindy Hop is part of the Swing family, many of its moves can be found in other dance styles popular today. This dance routine is defined as an athletic partner dance. As opposed to universal norm in partner dance where partners are supposed to stay upright and mostly connect through their hands, the Lindy Hop starts off with an athletic stance with emphasis on lower body movement or footwork.
Lindy Hop has 2 actual styles, though performers may integrate their own unique moves to give it a more unique style -- these are the Savory and G.I. style.
The Savory-styled Lindy Hop places an emphasis on upper body movement -- usually involving horizontal sways and jerks that define it as an active version of the dance routine. The second, the G.I. Lindy Hop, places its emphasis on upright body position with active lower body movement.
Footwork of this dance routine borrows some of the more commonplace techniques found in Charleston and Tap dancing. The steps use 6 and 8 counts for the rhythm and put an emphasis on the leader and weight changes during the routine. The music of the Lindy Hop is lively. Since this is an active dance where solo and partnered performers may integrate active movements to their routine, many of these dances are usually performed with an accompaniment of Jazz or hip-hop music in the background.
History
The history of Lindy Hop can be broken down into three stages -- the peak of the Swing era from 1920 to 1940, its evolution in 1950, and its revival in the 1980s.
This dance routine is said to originate from the black community in Harlem, New Work back in the 1920s. In-depth study of this style has broken down its routines into a combination of Charleston, breakaway, hop, and Texas Tommy. Around the 1930's, Lindy Hop is at the peak of its popularity.
This dance routine is quite popular in the many bars and dancing studios in various cities in the United States. However, it later stagnated when dancing was strongly disapproved due to the heavy tax sanction against bars and dancing halls.
Lindy Hop Today
Today, Lindy Hop is one of the few social dances performed in local regions. It did not reach the stage like other dances that evolved and accepted in various circles in modern society. This dance routine is performed mostly in private and public social events, dance competitions, and other dance performances. The maneuver can be done solo or with a partner.
Techniques
Considering that Lindy Hop is part of the Swing family, many of its moves can be found in other dance styles popular today. This dance routine is defined as an athletic partner dance. As opposed to universal norm in partner dance where partners are supposed to stay upright and mostly connect through their hands, the Lindy Hop starts off with an athletic stance with emphasis on lower body movement or footwork.
Lindy Hop has 2 actual styles, though performers may integrate their own unique moves to give it a more unique style -- these are the Savory and G.I. style.
The Savory-styled Lindy Hop places an emphasis on upper body movement -- usually involving horizontal sways and jerks that define it as an active version of the dance routine. The second, the G.I. Lindy Hop, places its emphasis on upright body position with active lower body movement.
Footwork of this dance routine borrows some of the more commonplace techniques found in Charleston and Tap dancing. The steps use 6 and 8 counts for the rhythm and put an emphasis on the leader and weight changes during the routine. The music of the Lindy Hop is lively. Since this is an active dance where solo and partnered performers may integrate active movements to their routine, many of these dances are usually performed with an accompaniment of Jazz or hip-hop music in the background.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Jazz Dancing
Jazz is not just music, but is also a dance routine. Its popularity stems in many places -- television shows, live performance, movies, and even in commercials. In truth, there is no fixed style in jazz dancing. The moves are based on the person's interpretation of the music. It is mostly punctuated with highly energetic moves, swings, and leaps that can easily catch and enthrall the audience in rapt attention -- moves similar to that of a ballet dancer but with more energetic movements.
History Of Jazz Dancing
Jazz dancing started its roots in 1950 that stems off from the popular jazz music during that time. The dance form has taken its roots from the African American vernacular dance when captive African slaves entered the country in the 18th and 19th century.
The early jazz dance maneuvers are clearly that of tap dancing. Where performers set their tap sets in line with jazz music. The traditional dance steps of jazz evolved to adapt to different dance styles in the 1950's, namely Boogie, Swing, Jitterbug, Cakewalk, Lindy Hop, and other popular dances in the mid 19th century.
Modern jazz dance evolved nearing the 20th century when performers has taken their art to the theatrical industry. The traditional dance evolved to include Broadway plays and was later introduced as modern jazz, which was also integrated to dancing competitions and musicals.
The Shoes
Modern jazz dance requires the right footwear to execute complicated footwork with ease. Considering that the dance involves a lot of swings, leaps, and pirouettes common in Ballet routines; the shoes have to be light and sturdy. Jazz shoes are often made from high-quality leather with flat soles for smooth turns and leaps. The soles are also made flat without any protrusions to incorporate the sliding maneuver that many jazz dancers tend to perform on stage. You can imagine this as a leather made ballet shoes if you like.
The Technique
Jazz dance is a blend of different dancing styles, namely ballet. Footwork is essential and requires great leg and foot strength in order to pull it off. If you observe a performer of the art, you will see their moves influenced by the grace and beauty of known styles, like ballet, hip-hop, acro, and contemporary dance moves.
Curriculum of jazz dance classes starts off with basic moves in ballet -- namely the improvement of body control and balance. Performers are urged and trained to find their center of gravity in order to execute complicated maneuvers and turns without falling. Another technique common for this dance style is the "spotting". This allows the dancer to execute pirouettes and turns while maintaining their balance.
There are no fixed steps in a jazz dance. Performers are urged to utilize their creative and personal interpretation of the music to their forms. However, jazz dance choreographers always put their charges to undergo an intensive training to improve their overall leg power and balance to flawlessly execute their unique maneuvers.
History Of Jazz Dancing
Jazz dancing started its roots in 1950 that stems off from the popular jazz music during that time. The dance form has taken its roots from the African American vernacular dance when captive African slaves entered the country in the 18th and 19th century.
The early jazz dance maneuvers are clearly that of tap dancing. Where performers set their tap sets in line with jazz music. The traditional dance steps of jazz evolved to adapt to different dance styles in the 1950's, namely Boogie, Swing, Jitterbug, Cakewalk, Lindy Hop, and other popular dances in the mid 19th century.
Modern jazz dance evolved nearing the 20th century when performers has taken their art to the theatrical industry. The traditional dance evolved to include Broadway plays and was later introduced as modern jazz, which was also integrated to dancing competitions and musicals.
The Shoes
Modern jazz dance requires the right footwear to execute complicated footwork with ease. Considering that the dance involves a lot of swings, leaps, and pirouettes common in Ballet routines; the shoes have to be light and sturdy. Jazz shoes are often made from high-quality leather with flat soles for smooth turns and leaps. The soles are also made flat without any protrusions to incorporate the sliding maneuver that many jazz dancers tend to perform on stage. You can imagine this as a leather made ballet shoes if you like.
The Technique
Jazz dance is a blend of different dancing styles, namely ballet. Footwork is essential and requires great leg and foot strength in order to pull it off. If you observe a performer of the art, you will see their moves influenced by the grace and beauty of known styles, like ballet, hip-hop, acro, and contemporary dance moves.
Curriculum of jazz dance classes starts off with basic moves in ballet -- namely the improvement of body control and balance. Performers are urged and trained to find their center of gravity in order to execute complicated maneuvers and turns without falling. Another technique common for this dance style is the "spotting". This allows the dancer to execute pirouettes and turns while maintaining their balance.
There are no fixed steps in a jazz dance. Performers are urged to utilize their creative and personal interpretation of the music to their forms. However, jazz dance choreographers always put their charges to undergo an intensive training to improve their overall leg power and balance to flawlessly execute their unique maneuvers.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Disco
Although nowadays, disco is not that popular anymore, it is still considered by a lot of people as one of the more influential genres of music and dance style in its time. A lot of our genres of music and dancing styles that we have today seem to take some parts or aspects from Disco back in its time. A lot of modern day sounds and movements bear influences from Disco.
What Is Disco?
Disco is actually a dance music genre that became fairly popular during the mid to late 70's. This was actually a reaction directed against the domination of rock in the mainstream music scene, as well as the dance music's demonetization during that time. Disco was originally popular amongst the black gay community, but was introduced into the mainstream music culture as it was picked up by New York City's white gay clubs. Even women and Latino's were hitched to Disco later on.
Disco Sounds
Disco is actually influenced by a lot of different music, which would originally include soul and funk music. Usually, music that has a 'four-on-the-floor' steady beat with an eighth note or sixteenth note pattern with soaring vocals, electric bass lines that are syncopated but prominent, and an off-beat open hi-hat, are the music that are associated with Disco. You might even notice that certain disco tracks have other instruments in the background as well, such as strings, electronic pianos, horns and electric guitars, to add a few more lush sounds to the music. These make the music very easy to dance to.
Disco Dancing Basics
When dancing Disco, there are actually no real rules, however, there are certain basic disco dance moves that you can do, especially if you do not exactly know how to dance Disco. The most basic form of Disco dancing is simply performing a simple pattern of moving from side to side, usually, a pattern of moving from left to right to left again. You simply move from side to side in a rhythmic pattern. Just make sure that you follow the beat of the music, or you would look a bit silly. Step to the right, then bring your feet together, then step to the left, then bring your feet together again. This is practically the most basic steps that you can make when dancing Disco.
Advance Disco Dancing
Once you have the most basic Disco dancing pattern, you can now proceed to dancing more complicated dance moves. Aside from simply moving from side to side, you can also add certain moves to make your dance pattern a bit more flavorful. You can add a little bit of spin to the end of your dance pattern. Simply pick a side where you want to spin to, plant your lead foot on the floor, raise your heel, and simply turn your body. Lifting your heel ensures that you spin on the ball of your foot.
Aside from that, you could also add a couple of hand gestures and hand movements along with your dance pattern. Just make sure that you do it along with the beat in order to avoid looking foolish.
What You Should Wear
No matter how fun Disco dancing is, you still need to be able to dance comfortably, which is why you need to make sure that you wear the right type of clothing for dancing Disco. Simply choose a pair of shoes that you can dance in, and clothes that you can move in. If you wear something that will restrict your movement, then you won't be able to dance properly.
What Is Disco?
Disco is actually a dance music genre that became fairly popular during the mid to late 70's. This was actually a reaction directed against the domination of rock in the mainstream music scene, as well as the dance music's demonetization during that time. Disco was originally popular amongst the black gay community, but was introduced into the mainstream music culture as it was picked up by New York City's white gay clubs. Even women and Latino's were hitched to Disco later on.
Disco Sounds
Disco is actually influenced by a lot of different music, which would originally include soul and funk music. Usually, music that has a 'four-on-the-floor' steady beat with an eighth note or sixteenth note pattern with soaring vocals, electric bass lines that are syncopated but prominent, and an off-beat open hi-hat, are the music that are associated with Disco. You might even notice that certain disco tracks have other instruments in the background as well, such as strings, electronic pianos, horns and electric guitars, to add a few more lush sounds to the music. These make the music very easy to dance to.
Disco Dancing Basics
When dancing Disco, there are actually no real rules, however, there are certain basic disco dance moves that you can do, especially if you do not exactly know how to dance Disco. The most basic form of Disco dancing is simply performing a simple pattern of moving from side to side, usually, a pattern of moving from left to right to left again. You simply move from side to side in a rhythmic pattern. Just make sure that you follow the beat of the music, or you would look a bit silly. Step to the right, then bring your feet together, then step to the left, then bring your feet together again. This is practically the most basic steps that you can make when dancing Disco.
Advance Disco Dancing
Once you have the most basic Disco dancing pattern, you can now proceed to dancing more complicated dance moves. Aside from simply moving from side to side, you can also add certain moves to make your dance pattern a bit more flavorful. You can add a little bit of spin to the end of your dance pattern. Simply pick a side where you want to spin to, plant your lead foot on the floor, raise your heel, and simply turn your body. Lifting your heel ensures that you spin on the ball of your foot.
Aside from that, you could also add a couple of hand gestures and hand movements along with your dance pattern. Just make sure that you do it along with the beat in order to avoid looking foolish.
What You Should Wear
No matter how fun Disco dancing is, you still need to be able to dance comfortably, which is why you need to make sure that you wear the right type of clothing for dancing Disco. Simply choose a pair of shoes that you can dance in, and clothes that you can move in. If you wear something that will restrict your movement, then you won't be able to dance properly.
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