Frequently Asked Dance Technique Questions

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Good technique is very important for all dancers no matter the genre.  If the dancer does not use proper technique, they are more susceptible to injury and less successful in general.  

Learning proper technique will sustain the dancer’s longevity, build strength, flexibity and prevent injuries.  When good technique is used it will provide dancers the ability to accomplish their goals with less injury and more confidence. Dancers who are skilled in technical training, use correct body placement and alignment to create beautiful lines, turned out feet, and good posture.   

The 4 types of contemporary dance technique include jazz, lyrical, ballet and modern.  Technique takes fundamentals from ballet and creates more movements that go out of the lines and rules within the strict ballet genre.  

Basic dance technique is when a dancer can execute each move within the dance genre with perfect form.  Each limb and body has a certain placement and movement to execute.  Every form of dance has its proper and specific techniques.  To achieve these proper techniques a dancer needs to get specific training in the genre of their interest 

Technique classes teach dancers to execute moves within a genre perfectly.  The placement of each limb, the posture, and position of the body are specifically addressed in technique classes.  These classes are used to improve movement, lines, and the overall look of the dancer.  These classes are crucial for any good dancers.  The ability of the dancer to adapt and improve using proper technique will enhance their abilities, improve their skills and create better performance quality.  

 This is a great question, and a hard one to answer because there are countless forms of dance that are created, performed, and celebrated around the world.  We were born to dance, to feel music and enjoy movement.  Dance has been part of cultures throughout the world for thousands of years.  Dance is performed throughout the world on street corners, stages, musicals, weddings, recitals, ceremonies etc.

There are so many physical skills that make up dance.  Here is list to start.  I am sure more could be added! 

Action, elevation, differences, turns, leaps, jumps, stillness, floor work, direct movement, flowing, abrupt, sudden, sustained, acceleration, deceleration. light, strong, fast, slow, hard, graceful, noisy, silent, energy, action, use of breath, release, walking, running skipping, galloping, sliding, travel, swing, twist, shake, stretch, wiggle, sway. 

A good dancer needs to have some basic understanding and execution of balance, creativity, physical strength, and physical dexterity. Each of these components will be useful in creating a better dancer and dance experience.  It is important to do activities that promote balance, strength, flexibly and dexterity.  The dancer that explores these skills and learns to execute them properly will become a better dancer The key to becoming a good dancer is to be intentional about all of the moments and keep at it.  No one improves from lack of action.

You need to first strengthen your core.  A strong core is essential when it comes to balance.  Make sure you are doing exercise to strengthen your core.  You also need a good solid base. When you are trying to improve your balance make sure you are on a stable and flat surface.  It is a good idea to practice without a mirror so you are not distracted and can rely on how it feels to find your balance.  It is also helpful to find a focal point to look at and to zone in on.  Try not to hold on to anything.  Take your hand off the barre, chair or whatever you usually hold on to and test yourself.  It is ok to challenge yourself to improve your balance. Set a goal and try to meet it.  Once you meet that goal set a new higher goal. It is also very important to have a good attitude and keep trying.  No one gets better at anything without some sort of effort.  Make the effort! If you think you can do it then you can!  

Dancers have come to a studio loaded with natural talent who catch on quickly and move up fast.  Others come in and take a long time to become a good dancer. I think there is a formula that creates a good dancer.  Hard work, self-awareness, coachability and natural talent all play into the creation of a good dancer, but the most important is having grit!  When we keep trying we will eventually get to where we want to be.  Of course, dance might come easier to some than others, but that doesn’t mean a person cannot improve and become an amazing dancer.  I have seen hard workers who are easily coached become amazing dancers.I do feel like it can be learned.  Those that are willingly work and don’t give up are those that will be successful.  People do not come dancers overnight. It takes time and effort to improve.  Make sure to give it time.