Contemporary dance is a constantly evolving art form that requires a strong foundation in technique and a willingness to push the boundaries of what is possible. For intermediate dancers looking to take their skills to the next level, there are several advanced techniques that can help you stand out on stage and in the studio.
1. Improvisation
Improvisation is a key component of contemporary dance, and it requires a deep connection to your body and your emotions. To improve your improvisation skills, try the following:
- Take class with teachers who emphasize improvisation and encourage you to explore your own movement vocabulary.
- Practice improvising on your own, using music or other stimuli to inspire your movement.
- Experiment with different levels, shapes, and qualities of movement to expand your range of expression.
2. Floor Work
Floor work is a challenging but rewarding aspect of contemporary dance that requires strength, flexibility, and control. To master floor work, try the following:
- Take class with teachers who specialize in floor work and learn proper technique for moving on the ground.
- Practice yoga or Pilates to improve your core strength and flexibility.
- Study the work of contemporary choreographers who incorporate floor work into their pieces, such as Hofesh Shechter or Akram Khan.
3. Partner Work
Partner work is a crucial aspect of contemporary dance that requires trust, communication, and a strong sense of timing. To improve your partner work, try the following:
- Take class with teachers who emphasize partnering and learn proper technique for lifting and supporting your partner.
- Practice with a partner regularly to build trust and develop your own unique movement language.
- Study the work of contemporary choreographers who are known for their innovative partnering, such as Crystal Pite or Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui.
4. Musicality
Musicality is a key component of contemporary dance that requires a deep connection to the music and an ability to interpret its nuances. To improve your musicality, try the following:
- Take class with teachers who emphasize musicality and learn how to listen to and interpret the music.
- Study different musical genres and explore how they can inform your movement.
- Experiment with different ways of phrasing and timing your movement to create a more dynamic and expressive performance.
5. Performance Quality
Performance quality is essential for any dancer looking to take their skills to the next level. To improve your performance quality, try the following:
- Take class with teachers who emphasize performance quality and learn how to connect with an audience.
- Practice performing in front of a mirror or record yourself to study your performance and identify areas for improvement.
- Study the work of professional contemporary dancers and observe their performance quality, stage presence, and ability to connect with an audience.
By incorporating these advanced techniques into your training, you can take your contemporary dance skills to the next level and become a more well-rounded and expressive dancer. Remember to always stay curious, open-minded, and willing to take risks in your movement, and you'll be on the road to perfection in no time.
