Contemporary dance is a popular and expressive dance style that combines elements of various dance techniques, including modern, jazz, lyrical, and classical ballet. As an intermediate dancer, you may feel like you have a good grasp on the basics, but there's always room for improvement. In this blog post, we'll break down some essential steps to help you take your contemporary dance skills to the next level.
1. Focus on Technique
While contemporary dance may appear more free-form than other dance styles, it still requires a strong technical foundation. Make sure you're practicing your basic ballet and modern dance techniques regularly to build strength, flexibility, and control.
2. Develop Your Musicality
Contemporary dance often features complex and emotional music, so it's important to develop your musicality. Practice listening to different types of music and experimenting with different ways to move to the rhythm. This will help you become more in tune with the music and more expressive in your movements.
a. Experiment with Different Rhythms
Try dancing to different types of music, from slow and emotional to fast and upbeat. This will help you become more versatile and adaptable as a dancer.
b. Connect with the Music Emotionally
Contemporary dance is often used to express deep emotions, so it's important to connect with the music on an emotional level. Try to understand the mood and message of the music and use that to inform your movements.
3. Practice Improvisation
Improvisation is a key component of contemporary dance, so it's important to practice it regularly. Start by setting aside time each day to improvise to music. Don't worry about making perfect movements or following a specific choreography - just let your body move freely and expressively.
a. Use Improvisation to Develop Your Personal Style
Improvisation is a great way to develop your own unique style as a dancer. Experiment with different movements and techniques to find what feels most natural and expressive for you.
b. Use Improvisation to Build Confidence
Improvisation can also be a great way to build confidence as a dancer. By practicing improvisation regularly, you'll become more comfortable with expressing yourself through movement and taking risks in your choreography.
4. Study Choreography
While improvisation is an important part of contemporary dance, it's also important to study choreography. This will help you develop your ability to follow and execute complex movements and sequences.
a. Study Different Choreographers
Study the work of different contemporary choreographers to get a sense of their unique styles and techniques. This will help you develop a broader understanding of the dance form and inspire your own choreography.
b. Break Down Choreography Step by Step
When learning a new piece of choreography, break it down step by step. Start by learning the basic movements and then gradually add in more complex steps and transitions.
5. Take Class Regularly
Finally, make sure you're taking contemporary dance classes regularly to continue improving your skills. Look for classes that challenge you and push you out of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to try new styles and techniques, and always be open to feedback and constructive criticism from your teachers and peers.
By focusing on these essential steps, you can continue to grow and improve as an intermediate contemporary dancer. Remember to be patient with yourself and enjoy the process of learning and growing as a dancer.
