Considered as both music and a dance custom as well, Jazz became popular when it appeared in television commercials and shows, movies and in live concerts or events. There is no right or wrong way to dance Jazz. The steps and movements should be based on the person’s understanding or comprehension of the music. Jazz dances are identical to ballet dance but integrate more power or energy in each step.
History Of Jazz Dancing
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 preceding Jazz movements were taken from tap dance steps. During the 1950′s, the evolution of Jazz took place to accommodate the diverse dance forms such as Swing, Lindy Hop, Cakewalk and other renowned dance styles in the 19th century.
Modern jazz dance evolved nearing the 20th century when performers has taken their art to the theatrical industry. The traditional dance evolved to include Broadway plays and was later introduced as modern jazz, which was also integrated to dancing competitions and musicals.
What to Wear?
This form of dance necessitates the proper footwear to be able to perform the difficult jazz routines. The footwear for Jazz dancing should be agile yet strong to accompany swings and leaps. Jazz footwear is made of the best-quality leather with even soles to provide genial curves and jumps. The bottom of the shoes is also designed to integrate the sliding motions that are commonly done by dancers on stage.
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.
Although lessons are given, there are no definite or structured dance movements in Jazz. They are encouraged to use their own creative side as well as their interpretative ideas to create steps. Although, choreographers of Jazz always make their students go through difficult practices to enhance the dancer’s leg power as well as body stability.
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