Contemporary dance is a popular and expressive dance style that combines elements of several dance genres, including modern, jazz, lyrical, and classical ballet. It emphasizes fluidity of movement, emotional expression, and the use of the dancer's own individual style. If you're interested in learning contemporary dance, here are some tips to help you master the basics:
1. Develop a strong foundation in ballet
Contemporary dance has its roots in classical ballet, so it's important to have a strong foundation in ballet technique. This includes learning proper posture, alignment, and terminology. Many contemporary dance classes begin with a pliable or conditioning exercise, so be sure to take advantage of this time to warm up your body and prepare for the rest of the class.
2. Focus on alignment and posture
Good alignment and posture are essential in contemporary dance. This means keeping your chest lifted, your shoulders down and back, and your core engaged. Focus on maintaining a long, lean line from the top of your head to the tips of your fingers and toes. This will help you move with grace and fluidity, and prevent injury.
3. Use your breath to enhance your movement
Breathing is an important aspect of contemporary dance. It helps you connect with the movement and express emotion through your body. Experiment with different ways of using your breath, such as inhaling on a rise and exhaling on a fall, or using your breath to create a sense of suspension or release.
4. Experiment with different movement qualities
Contemporary dance is known for its fluidity and versatility, so don't be afraid to experiment with different movement qualities. This could include anything from quick, sharp movements to slow, sustained movements, or even a combination of the two. Use your own personal style to guide your movement choices, and don't be afraid to take risks and try new things.
5. Practice regularly and be patient
Like any dance style, mastering the basics of contemporary dance takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become in your movement.
Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and have fun. Contemporary dance is a beautiful and expressive art form that can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for anyone who is willing to put in the time and effort to learn it.
