So, you’ve mastered the basics of contemporary dance—fluid movements, floor work, and emotional expression—but now you’re itching to level up. Transitioning from a beginner to an intermediate dancer isn’t just about learning harder choreography; it’s about refining technique, deepening artistry, and expanding your movement vocabulary. Here’s how to bridge that gap.
1. Strengthen Your Foundation (Yes, Again)
Before leaping into complex sequences, revisit your fundamentals with a critical eye. Intermediate dancers don’t just do movements—they own them. Focus on:
- Alignment: Clean lines make even simple movements look polished.
- Weight Shifts: Practice seamless transitions between standing, kneeling, and floor work.
- Breath Control: Sync your exhales/inhales with movement for fluidity.
Pro Tip: Film yourself dancing basics—you’ll spot inconsistencies you never noticed.
2. Explore Improvisation (Seriously, Stop Choreographing)
Intermediate dancers don’t just follow choreography; they create. Set aside 10 minutes daily to improvise to different genres of music (or silence!). Goals:
- Play with dynamics (sudden vs. sustained movements).
- Experiment with negative space (how your body interacts with emptiness).
- Let go of "right" or "wrong"—focus on authenticity.
3. Add Texture to Your Movement
Beginner moves are smooth; intermediate moves have layers. Try these drills:
- Resistance Training: Imagine moving through honey to build control.
- Isolation + Flow: Isolate a body part (e.g., rib cage) while the rest flows.
- Gravity Play: Fall and recover with intention, not just momentum.
4. Study Other Dancers (But Don’t Copy)
Watch professional contemporary works (e.g., Crystal Pite, Hofesh Shechter). Analyze:
- How they use musicality (not just counting beats).
- Their use of space (levels, directions, proximity).
- Storytelling without literal gestures.
Warning: Don’t mimic—absorb and reinterpret in your style.
5. Take Risks (Embrace the Awkward)
Intermediate growth happens outside comfort zones. Try:
- Combining two unrelated techniques (e.g., ballet arms with floor work).
- Dancing in unconventional spaces (stairs, grass, tight corners).
- Performing for friends—feedback is gold.
Remember: Progress isn’t linear. Some days you’ll feel like a prodigy; others, like you’ve regressed. Keep a dance journal to track breakthroughs. Soon, you’ll look back and realize—you’re not just dancing contemporary, you’re speaking it.
Now go fall, roll, and rise again. Literally.
