Key Features of Jazz Dance



 

JAZZ DANCE!





Jazz dance is a high energy and lively dance style, combining both African and European dance styles. it is performed to jazz and pop music.

It originated from African culture, known for its musicality and where dance is considered part of everyday life, rather than as a separate thing. In the mid 20th century it was brought to North America due to the slave trade. 



key characteristics! 

  • syncopation, polyrhythm, and complex rhythmic moves example
  • isolations of body parts example of exercises
  • use of the whole foot (helps to transfer weight easily)


  • bent knees 
    • bent knees

..and some moves!
  • pirouettes

  • jazz square 

  • ball change 

  • grande jete 

  • pas de bourree




Katherine Dunham 



Katherine Dunham, born 1909, was an American dancer and choreographer, as well as a social activist and author!

she founded the Katherine Dunham dance company in 1930 

she was known as a dance 'rebel' and as the 'matriarch of black dance'

She even created her own technique - the Dunham Technique! The technique focuses on engaging the mind, body and soul as one. It combines modern dance, ballet and African dance and focuses on isolation, strength and flexibility.



references

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/jazz-dance-guide

https://dance.lovetoknow.com/History_of_Jazz_Dance

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katherine_Dunham

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