Contemporary dance is a beautiful and expressive art form that blends elements of modern, jazz, ballet, and even everyday movement. It’s a style that encourages individuality, creativity, and emotional storytelling. If you’re just starting your journey into contemporary dance, you might feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin. Don’t worry—every dancer starts somewhere, and with the right mindset and approach, you can go from zero to flow in no time. Here are some essential tips to help you get started.
1. Embrace the Basics
Before diving into complex choreography, it’s important to build a strong foundation. Focus on mastering basic techniques such as posture, alignment, and balance. These fundamentals will serve as the building blocks for more advanced movements. Take time to understand how your body moves and how to control it. Simple exercises like pliés, tendus, and rolls can help you develop the necessary strength and flexibility.
2. Connect with Your Body
Contemporary dance is deeply rooted in self-expression. To truly connect with the style, you need to develop a strong mind-body connection. Spend time exploring how your body feels in motion. Practice moving with intention, paying attention to how each movement flows into the next. This awareness will help you dance more fluidly and authentically.
3. Let Go of Perfection
One of the most liberating aspects of contemporary dance is its emphasis on individuality and imperfection. Unlike more structured dance styles, contemporary dance celebrates raw, unfiltered movement. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or look “messy” as you learn. Allow yourself to experiment and discover your unique style. Remember, dance is about expression, not perfection.
4. Explore Improvisation
Improvisation is a key component of contemporary dance. It allows you to explore movement freely and develop your creativity. Set aside time to improvise to different types of music or even silence. Let your body guide you and see where it takes you. Over time, you’ll find that improvisation helps you become more comfortable with spontaneity and self-expression.
5. Build Strength and Flexibility
Contemporary dance requires a combination of strength, flexibility, and endurance. Incorporate cross-training exercises like yoga, Pilates, or strength training into your routine to build the physical stamina needed for this style. Stretching is also crucial—aim to improve your flexibility to achieve those beautiful, elongated lines that are characteristic of contemporary dance.
6. Study the Greats
Take inspiration from renowned contemporary choreographers and dancers. Watch performances by artists like Martha Graham, Pina Bausch, or Alvin Ailey to understand the depth and diversity of the style. Pay attention to their use of emotion, storytelling, and movement quality. Studying the work of others can help you develop your own artistic voice.
7. Find a Supportive Community
Dancing can feel isolating if you’re doing it alone. Seek out a community of like-minded dancers who share your passion for contemporary dance. Join a class, attend workshops, or connect with others online. Surrounding yourself with supportive peers can motivate you, provide valuable feedback, and make the learning process more enjoyable.
8. Be Patient with Yourself
Learning contemporary dance is a journey, not a race. Progress may feel slow at times, but every step forward is an achievement. Celebrate small victories, whether it’s mastering a new move or simply feeling more confident in your body. Trust the process and remember that growth takes time.
9. Dance with Emotion
Contemporary dance is as much about emotion as it is about movement. Don’t be afraid to let your feelings guide your dancing. Whether you’re expressing joy, sadness, anger, or love, allow your emotions to shine through. This authenticity is what makes contemporary dance so powerful and captivating.
10. Have Fun!
Above all, remember to enjoy the process. Contemporary dance is a space for creativity, exploration, and self-discovery. Don’t take yourself too seriously—dance because it brings you joy. The more you enjoy the journey, the more your passion will fuel your progress.
Starting contemporary dance may feel daunting at first, but with dedication and an open mind, you’ll soon find your flow. Embrace the journey, trust your body, and let your creativity soar. Happy dancing!
