Introduction to Hip-Hop and Funk Dance Styles

2 units

This course will be an introduction to the fundamentals of hip-hop, jazz funk, house dance and other related dance styles. This course is designed to introduce students to the various elements of these styles -- the history, terminology, technique, core movement concepts, and prominent dance figures -- and for students to experience all of these elements through dancing, observation, research, discussion, and choreography. This course will also explore the culture and music of hip-hop and other related styles of dance. As a whole, this course will focus on strengthening movement skills through increased flexibility, strength, and endurance while sharpening musical awareness, learning choreography, exploring improvisation, and understanding the appropriate vocabulary needed to develop strong technique for these styles. There will be written assignments and readings included in this course. Previous movement training is recommended but not required.