Contemporary dance is a beautiful fusion of emotion, technique, and storytelling. It’s a genre that thrives on fluidity, expression, and connection to the music. For dancers, the right playlist can be the difference between a good performance and a breathtaking one. Whether you’re choreographing a solo piece, teaching a class, or simply exploring movement, having a curated selection of tracks is essential. Here’s a guide to must-have playlists that will elevate your contemporary choreography.
1. Emotional and Ethereal
Contemporary dance often delves into deep emotions, and music that evokes a sense of ethereality can enhance this connection. Look for tracks with haunting vocals, soft piano melodies, or ambient soundscapes. Artists like Ólafur Arnalds, Nils Frahm, and AURORA are perfect for creating an emotional atmosphere. Songs like "Saman" by Ólafur Arnalds or "Runaway" by AURORA can inspire movements that feel weightless and introspective.
2. Rhythmic and Dynamic
Not all contemporary pieces are slow and introspective. Sometimes, you need music with a strong rhythm to drive powerful, dynamic movements. Tracks with percussive elements, syncopated beats, or layered textures can add energy to your choreography. Consider artists like Bonobo, RÜFÜS DU SOL, or even experimental tracks from James Blake. Songs like "Innerbloom" by RÜFÜS DU SOL or "Cirrus" by Bonobo can ignite a sense of urgency and vitality in your dance.
3. Minimalist and Experimental
Minimalist music allows dancers to focus on the subtleties of movement. Tracks with sparse instrumentation, repetitive motifs, or experimental sounds can create a meditative and thought-provoking atmosphere. Artists like Max Richter, Philip Glass, or even Aphex Twin’s ambient works are excellent choices. Pieces like "On the Nature of Daylight" by Max Richter or "Metamorphosis 1" by Philip Glass can inspire choreography that feels raw and unfiltered.
4. Cinematic and Dramatic
For contemporary pieces that tell a story or evoke a sense of grandeur, cinematic music is a must. Orchestral scores, sweeping strings, and dramatic crescendos can elevate your choreography to a theatrical level. Composers like Hans Zimmer, Ludovico Einaudi, or Yiruma are perfect for this style. Tracks like "Time" by Hans Zimmer or "Nuvole Bianche" by Ludovico Einaudi can add a sense of epic storytelling to your dance.
5. Eclectic and Genre-Blending
Contemporary dance is all about breaking boundaries, and your playlist can reflect that. Mixing genres like electronic, classical, world music, or even hip-hop can create a unique and innovative soundscape. Artists like FKJ, ODESZA, or even Björk are great for blending styles. Songs like "Tadow" by FKJ or "Cornfield" by ODESZA can inspire choreography that feels fresh and unexpected.
Tips for Building Your Playlist
- Match the Mood: Consider the emotional tone of your piece and choose music that aligns with it.
- Experiment with Tempo: Play around with slow, medium, and fast tracks to explore different movement qualities.
- Layer Sounds: Don’t be afraid to mix instrumental tracks with vocal pieces for variety.
- Stay Open to New Music: Explore emerging artists and genres to keep your choreography innovative.
Your playlist is more than just background music—it’s the heartbeat of your choreography. By curating tracks that resonate with your artistic vision, you can create contemporary dance pieces that are as unforgettable as the music itself. So, dive into these playlists, let the music move you, and watch your choreography soar to new heights.
