Modern Dance
Modern dance was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a rebellion against the restrictive techniques of ballet and other traditional forms of dance. Performers like Loie Fuller and Isadora Duncan were pioneers of modern dance as they began to experiment with lighting, transparent silks, and flowing costumes in their expressive performances.
Famous dancers and choreographers like Doris Humphrey and Martha Graham brought a level of seriousness to modern dance, formally establishing it as the opposition to ballet.
Rather than being focused on a set of rigid postures or positions, modern dance is about fluidity and free-flowing movement. Modern dance also embraces emotion and invites dancers to express how the music makes them feel through performance.
Today, modern dance classes afford beginners and experienced dancers the opportunity to express themselves through movement. These classes are very different from a traditional ballet, hip-hop, or ballroom dance class – modern dance performers are encouraged to connect with the music and their body to create something meaningful.
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What makes modern dance unique is that all you need is to put on a song and move your body to explore this art form. Your feet, legs, arms, hips, core, and head begin to move in conjunction with the music. It can be completely abstract and dependent on the day. You can leap into the air or roll on the ground – whatever feels right for your body and brain that day.
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However, one of the best parts of having a hobby is sharing it with others. While you can easily post videos of yourself dancing on social media, it may also be worth checking out some modern dance classes where you can connect with other performers.
Many dance studios offer modern or “contemporary” dance classes for beginners where you can start from square one. While it can be fun to improvise and make up a dance as you go, it is also a great skill to be able to learn choreography and dance synchronously with others.
You may have to test out a few classes to find a teacher or studio you like, but once you find a favorite, you can become a studio regular.
It’s all about movement.
Dance is a great hobby to dip your toes into. You don’t need to buy anything or go anywhere. You can start right in your room.
There’s so many forms too. Most popular now is hip hop, house, and modern dance. So much to try, so much to learn!
Rules.
Only if you want.
Unless you’re keen on learning a choreography or being a purist to a specific form of dance, there are no rules to what dance is.
Think of it as a way to move your body to your liking. Maybe you do want to look choreographed or it’s more about feeling free and fluid to you.
How to
begin dancing.
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As silly as it sounds, that’s what dance basically is. Moving your body and letting it speak. Put on some music you already like and see what your mind and body does. You probably already do it! Who doesn’t like moving a little when their favorite track comes on?
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If you’re reading this, you have access to the internet and the internet has a wealth of dance videos for you to try dancing alongside. There are many led by real dance instructors for you to be guided by. You can do all this by yourself in the comfort of your room.
Check out this video. It’s a good start! And remember, it’s not going to come naturally, all dancers spent time learning how to dance! Be ready to sweat a little too.
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Feeling ready to dive right in? Dance classes are a big part to having dance as a hobby. These classes take place at dance studios, led by real dancers, often times a set choreography along side 10-20 other dancing hobbyist.
Check out our [spaces] page on Dance Studios to learn more!
Discover more of Roy’s dances @roygarzon.