Jazz dance is all about energy, rhythm, and flair—blending technique with personality. As an intermediate dancer, you’re ready to level up your repertoire with moves that showcase precision, musicality, and that signature sass. Here are five essential jazz steps to refine your style and own the floor.
1. The Jazz Square
A cornerstone of jazz choreography, the jazz square is deceptively simple but packed with attitude. Start by crossing your right foot over your left, step back with your left, step right to the side, and finish by bringing your left foot forward. Add sharp arm movements or a body roll to elevate it.
Pro tip: Keep your weight centered and hips loose—this move thrives on controlled momentum.
2. Pirouette with Attitude
Jazz pirouettes are faster and more dynamic than ballet turns. Prep with a strong plié, push off your back foot, and spot sharply as you spin. The key? A high, bent working leg (à la jazz) and arms in a sharp "V" or curved position.
Pro tip: Practice balancing in retiré first—control beats multiple uncontrolled turns.
3. The Flick Ball Change
This quick, rhythmic step adds punch to combinations. Kick (flick) your foot forward, then snap into a ball change (step back on the ball of one foot, then the other). Use it as a transition or to punctuate musical accents.
Pro tip: Keep your upper body still—let the legs do the talking for maximum crispness.
4. Jazz Split (Slide)
A dramatic, controlled descent into a split (or near-split) with one leg extended forward and the other bent behind. Lower slowly with engaged core muscles, then rebound explosively. Perfect for climax moments in routines.
Pro tip: Protect your knees! Use a slick surface or jazz shoes to slide smoothly.
5. The Charleston Kick
A nod to jazz’s roots, this syncopated move combines a back step with a forward kick. Step back on your right, kick left leg forward while swinging opposite arm, then step forward. Play with speed—slow and sultry or fast and staccato.
Pro tip: Lean slightly back on the kick for that classic 1920s flair.
Master these five moves, and you’ll add versatility, texture, and confidence to your jazz performances. Remember: Jazz dance thrives on individuality, so once you’ve nailed the technique, make it your own with facial expressions, dynamics, and a dash of daring. Now go hit that studio—and let the music move you!
