Jazz Dance: Context & Practice

4.0 credits

This course is open to beginning & intermediate level jazz dancers and will include an in-depth exploration of vernacular jazz movement and its relationship to jazz music. Through inter-active discussion, movement, and research we will investigate the context, history, applications, and societal impact of jazz dance in America and throughout the world. Technique classes will blend full-bodied momentum-driven dancing with subtlety, rhythmic challenges, and self-expression. Emphasis will be on a working knowledge of the elements of jazz, embodiment of rhythm, accent, dynamics, and disciplining the body to move with clarity and sound anatomical principles. A range of styles of jazz music will be used for performing class sequences and improvisations. Reading, writing, video viewing, class discussions, and attendance at live concerts will hone skills of observation, movement analysis and interpretation of jazz dance.