Jazz is considered not only as a genre of music but a dance routine as well. Jazz became popular due to its exposure in television commercials and shows as well as performed in live events. This form of dance is identical with ballet moves however; it is executed with more power in each jump and swing. Basically, there is no correct way to dance jazz. It is up to the dancer on how he/she interprets the music.
When did it Begin?
Jazz dancing started its roots in 1950 that stems off from the popular jazz music during that time. The dance form has taken its roots from the African American vernacular dance when captive African slaves entered the country in the 18th and 19th century.
The early jazz dance maneuvers are clearly that of tap dancing. Where performers set their tap sets in line with jazz music. The traditional dance steps of jazz evolved to adapt to different dance styles in the 1950’s, namely Boogie, Swing, Jitterbug, Cakewalk, Lindy Hop, and other popular dances in the mid 19th century.
It then later emerged entering the 20th century when dance artists included it in the theatre business. The classic dance changed to accommodate Broadway performances and was then renamed to modern jazz that was incorporated to dance events and musical plays.
What to Wear?
Modern jazz dance requires the right footwear to execute complicated footwork with ease. Considering that the dance involves a lot of swings, leaps, and pirouettes common in Ballet routines; the shoes have to be light and sturdy. Jazz shoes are often made from high-quality leather with flat soles for smooth turns and leaps. The soles are also made flat without any protrusions to incorporate the sliding maneuver that many jazz dancers tend to perform on stage. You can imagine this as a leather made ballet shoes if you like.
Learning the Technique
Jazz dance is a mix of various styles of dance, particularly ballet. Agile and strong footwork is necessary to perform Jazz dances. When you find someone performing Jazz, you will notice that some of the movements are mainly taken from other popular styles of dance such as ballet and hip-hop.
Jazz dancing lessons begin with basic ballet movements to develop the equilibrium and control of the body. Students are encouraged to look for their own balance to be able to perform difficult movements without getting out of balanced. Spotting is also taught to new students to give them the ability to perform pirouettes while still being balanced.
There is no structured plan on how you will learn Jazz dance. It is up to you to create your own movements depending on how you interpret or understand the music you are dancing to. Although, choreographers prefer to make their students endure difficult lessons in enhancing leg strength as well as leg balance.
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