Self Improvement » Dancing Skills

Tap Dancing

icamm — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 12:45:02 +0000

Tap dancing is a specialized form of dancing that became popular in the US particularly in the l930′s and 40′s, and is revived periodically to a high level of recognition through musicals and movies.

As the name suggests, tap dancing is characterized by tapping movements of the feet, which are accentuated by metal “taps” which are affixed to the toes and heels of the dancing shoes. To excel in tap dancing requires considerable skill and agility, and tap dancers often become tremendously talented at executing involved movements which combine the technique of tap dancing with elements of ballet.

Tap dancing was popularized in the movies in the decades mentioned, and a number of movie stars were reknowned for their skill at tap dancing. Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire become famous as a dancing couple, and his skills in particular were extraordinary, combining tap dancing with involved, acrobatic type movements and forms of ballroom dancing as well.

Tap dancing is not as graceful and beautiful to watch in general as some other forms of dancing, as the very fact of executing very fast toe and heel movements restricts some other body movements. A number of musicals and movies have elevated this form of dancing in public appreciation and popularity. One of the most famous was the broadway production of 42nd Street, which has also been produced as a movie.

Child star Shirley Temple achieved great fame and success because of a combination of adorable looks and the ability to sing and dance. She contributed to the popularity of tap dancing, and many children and young aspiring performers studied tap dancing as a result of seeing Shirley Temple perform singing and tap dancing in a series of movies.

Many young people have entered the field of entertainment through tap dancing, perhaps getting a small roll in a movie or play which required this skill. For many others it has been an entry level to other studies in dancing, which might include ballet or modern dancing.
Like other forms of dance, tap dancing is a healthy exercise, and the ability to perform also give youngsters confidence and builds self esteem. Often a young person who can tap dance will have an edge when it comes to participating in school or community productions.
Participation in these events can contribute to feelings of confidence and gain the respect and admiration of schoolmates. Consider tap dancing among the activities which might interest members of your family.

Social Dancing

icamm — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:45:03 +0000

Social dancing has been a part of social activities for many centuries, and in a sense has been a social activity since primitive times. In our discussion, however, we will consider social dancing in terms of a fairly organized and regular activity among many groups in countries throughout Europe and the Americas.

Social dancing centuries ago took place both among gentry and among the less privileged.
Stately ballroom dances were held in castles and manor houses, while folk dancing more probably was done in the streets. Nevertheless, in both cases group dancing was a social event.

Today social dancing can include anything from organized ballroom dances to disco dancing to dancing in a small dinner/dance club. It can take place in country clubs or on a tiny dance floor in a local bar. But social dancing in some form is present in every country.

Among those who are devoted to dancing on a regular basis, there are many organized groups who both study and regularly indulge in ballroom dancing. In this form of social dancing, often groups are formed who sponsor and support social dancing on a regular (probably weekly) basis. Such groups collect dues which support the source of music for these social dances, and rent a hall, usually from a local club or organization. Social dancing is of major importance to true devotees of ballroom dancing, and members of social dancing groups often take lessons continually to learn new dances and improve their dancing techniques.

Social dancing is not limited to ballroom dancing or disco dancing. Square dancing is a popular form of dancing among many dancers who prefer a country western style to the more formal ballroom dancing. Those who enjoy square dancing usually dress in special country-western costumes rather than the more formal or “dressy” clothing worn by most ballroom dancers. In any event, nights of social dancing are thoroughly enjoyed by the participants.

Ballroom dancing, probably the most prevalent of social dancing activities, can lead to or incorporate competition dancing, for which there are many enthusiasts. Ballroom competition dancing rises to an entirely different level from regular ballroom dancing. Many ballroom dancers study for years to learn the advanced techniques of top level ballroom dancing, and study many different dances in order to compete. These individuals, or couples, of course continue to enjoy regular social dancing as it is an important element in their lives.

At any level, social dancing is a truly enjoyable and healthful activity. If you have not made it part of your life, think about starting, perhaps with studio lessons alone or with a partner.
Social dancing could become a truly delightful addition to your social life.

Practicing Dancing Alone

icamm — Sun, 31 May 2009 10:30:03 +0000

Because there are so many types of dancing with which one may be involved, practicing dancing at home can take several forms. If, for instance, you are studying ballet, it goes without saying that much practice will be done in a studio, where chances are others will also be practicing. If you are studying tap dancing, the same might be true, but it is also true that this type of dancing is often practiced at home alone. This is done by repetitively dancing the steps which have been taught in the studio.

Probably more people are involved in ballroom dancing than in the forms of dancing studied to perform. Therefore we are more concerned with the process of practicing ballroom dancing alone. At first, this may seem impossible. It is, however, quite possible, and practicing ballroom dancing alone at home can vastly improve one’s dancing skills.

To begin, of course, one must be thoroughly familiar with the footwork involved in the dance steps you are going to practice.. For instance, if you have been studying the rhumba, or simply dancing this dance with a partner or partners, it is possible to practice alone to improve your dancing in several ways. It is quite possible to practice the footwork of various steps, being precise as to placement and movement of your feet. These movements are very specific in the rhumba, as in other ballroom dances. As you practice the footwork when dancing alone, also be aware of the body movements, typified in the rhumba by a swiveling motion of the hips, while keep the shoulders straight.

When practicing dancing alone, also be aware of and continue to improve your upper body posture, including shoulders and arms. Sensuous and graceful arm movements are an important part of dancing the rhumba, while in some other dances arm movements may be more rapid and sharp.

Practicing dancing alone may not be as much fun as practicing with a partner, but it can nevertheless improve your dancing technique. Of course appropriate music should be available when you are practicing alone. It is not possible, obviously, to dance the tango to waltz music. Another aid to practicing alone, and one which can advance your dancing ability, is to use video tapes which teach various dances through demonstrations by professional couples. Using such tapes you can not only improve your dancing technique, but you can practice and learn new steps to increase your knowledge of many ballroom dances. Thus by practicing dancing alone, using a variety of approaches, you can improve your dancing technique and advance your knowledge of many ballroom dances.

Native American Dancing

icamm — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 22:15:06 +0000

Native American dancing as we speak of it is particular to the North American Native Americans, and is a type of folk or cultural dancing which evolved over centuries. Native American dancing, typically performed to drum beats, has been related to many aspects of the lives of these peoples. Though the dances of different tribes may vary, the feeling and rhythms and postures are fairly consistent.

Native American dances were traditionally performed to celebrate specific occasions, such as harvest, tribal social rites, victories in war, a successful hunt, and on occasion, as a precursor to battle. To those pioneers who witnessed Native American dancing in prepartion for battled, it must have been a frightening and awe-inspiring sight. Today one may witness this form of cultural dancing in venues which are peaceful and conducive promoting to good relations and understanding among various peoples.

Many Native American dances were traditionally performed around or near a camp fire, and were typically performed by the males of the tribes. On some occasions, the women joined the dancing, but usually on the fringes. Children observed and learned to participate in the dancing in certain areas of the camp.

Typically, Native American dancing involves repetitive, sometimes intricate, footwork, body movement, usually vertical, and arm movements. Dancers sometimes worked themselves into a frenzy, dancing for hours until exhausted.

Native Americans developed elaborate and beautifully decorate costumes and accessories worn while dancing. Headresses abounded with large elaborate feathers secured in a band which may have had heavily beaded decoration. Aprons, skirts, capes, footwear worn while dancing all were typically beautifully beaded, some in complex designs.

There are numerous books available in public and school libraries which provide great information and beautiful illustrations of Native American rituals and activities, including dancing. It is interesting to study the types of dress and costume developed by different tribes, some used in dancing, others for other activities and ritual. In all cases they are elaborate and beautiful.

Just as Native American dancing occupies an important place in the cultural history of these American peoples, so it also is important to the cultural history of the country in which it originated.

History of Dancing

icamm — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 01:00:03 +0000

Dancing in some form or other is one of man’s earliest expressions of joy, worship, celebration and grief. Who knows when the first man danced to celebrate a successful hunt? Or as part of a mating ceremony…or at a burial? We do know that dancing is as old as recorded history, and that various peoples have developed ways and styles of dancing that are unique.

Dancing can be highly sophisticated…a form of high art…or as simple as a country jig. It can be enjoyed socially or privately. Dancing can be accompanied by a fiddle, or a full orchestra. Dancing is simply a part of nearly every known culture. It is a basic human response to emotion, to rhythm and to music.

Ballet is probably the most sophisticated art form of dancing. Ballet has evolved over years, however, from a very formal, classical form of dance to more modern and imaginative interpretations, while remaining nevertheless a fine art.

An example of a specifically cultural form of dancing is that of Native American groups, who employed dance rituals in most aspects of daily life. Native American dancing is done with drums establishing the beat and mood of the dance, and can be celebratory, religious or, in earlier times, preparation for war.

Several forms of dancing evolved in the production of theater musicals and later movies.
During the 1930′s and ’40s, tap dancing became popular, and several dancers became very famous during that era, including the famous child star, Shirley Temple, and Fred Astaire.

Ballroom dancing in some form has been a part of social life in most countries for many decades. Ballroom dancing today is very popular among many as a social activity. Often groups of dancers will study various types of ballroom dancing and then meet regularly to dance the evening away. Competition ballroom dancing is also widely practiced in the US and some European countries. Serious students of competition dancing spend large amounts of money on lessons, dancing apparel, and
traveling to large competitive events.

Styles of ballroom dancing have changed widely over centuries and in different countries.
The stately minuet was a court favorite several centuries ago. The elegant fox trot and waltz were popular during the 19th century and continue to be favorites today. In the 20th century, dance studios under the name of famous dancers Fred Astaire and Arthur Murray began to teach a wide variety of ballroom dancing including Latin dances such as the rhumba, tango, cha cha and salsa. For each dance there are several levels of dancing, each involving a number of specific steps, so the study of ballroom dancing can involve years of instruction. Dancing is fun, a healthy activity and an excellent social skill. If you haven’t tried it, don’t wait any longer to add dancing to your life.

Folk Dancing

icamm — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 15:15:02 +0000

For centuries, folk dancing has been part of almost every culture on the globe. Naturally, every region and diverse groups of people have developed their own special style of folk dancing. Folk dancing may be related to religious practices, to the seasons of the year or simply a response to simple country music.

Folk dancing, whether it originates in eastern Europe or Ireland or South American countries, usually has a definite style and involves specific types of movement. It may be lively or more sedate, done individually or in groups or with a single partner.

Folk dancing evolved, as the name suggests, among country “folk” rather than among the gentry. More formal dances, ranging from the minuet to the waltz, typified the dancing of nobility in earlier times, and more recently among “society” people. Now, of sourse, ballroom dancing is enjoyed by a broad range of people and certainly not limited to any social group.

Folk dancing is often done wearing specific costumes, clothing which typifies the wear of the early developers of folk dancing. In the US, those who enjoy square dancing usually wear clothing typical of earlier country western styles, as this dance originated among frontier peoples.

Square dancing is energetic and joyous. As the name implies, square dancing is executed by four sets of partners making a square formation, with specific dancing steps moving dancers around the square as they change partners and whirl about in a happy dancing mode. In some communities, square dancing is enjoyed more often by more people than conventional ballroom dancing.

Folk dancing in other countries is frequently performed in costumes typical of those worn in earlier times when this style of dancing developed. In a sense it is a celebration of the roots of a social group, a sort of ceremony to keep traditions alive. Folk dancing is of course great fun or it would not have survived.

There are other forms of folk dancing which involve an entire group of people moving in unison in lines across a dance floor. This is also a type of country dancing, with someone “calling” the moves as the dance progresses. This type of dancing allows for more single persons without partners to participate and is thus a good community activity.

The various forms of folk dancing provide good, healthy fun in a happy atmosphere, and are a good counterpart to the more formal social dances commonly held in clubs or ballrooms.

Dressing for Competition Dancing

icamm — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 20:00:05 +0000

Dedicated ballroom dancers not only study regularly and participate in ballroom dancing on a regular basis, but often become interested and involved in competition dancing. Competition ballroom dancing is enormously popular among dancers in the US and abroad.
Dance studios often sponsor local or regional dance competitions, and there are major national and international competitions as well.

As a relative beginner in ballroom dancing, one might compete in the regional inter-studio competitions on a fairly regular basis. Gowns and men’s wear for these competitions are not usually elaborate, but are attractive and designed to move well during dancing. Traditionally, women’s dress skirts will reach to the knee and will be flared so as to swirl out a bit during turns and fast movements. Hairstyles vary, but traditionally it is best to have the hair pulled back or up, not long or flopping, so as to contribute to elegant body lines and not distract from the dancing, which is the center of attention of the audience and especially judges.

In smaller competition arenas, the male partners usually wear suits rather than sports attire.
In major competitions, many men wear tuxedos, or simple dark suits.

In major dancing competitions, such as the National Ballroom Dance Competition held annually, dancing attire for women is elaborate, beautiful and expensive.
Often the female competitors have spent years studying dancing at a large studio, have competed regularly, and don’t hesitate to make a large investment in dance costumes.

Usually elaborate dresses which women wear in major dancing events are quite bare in the top and have very full, flaring skirts which show off and enhance dramatic dance movements.
Such garments may be made of chiffon, silk and other materials which drape well. Skirts may be gored and inset with additional bias-cut material which extends the skirt to a full circle when dancers execute rapid turns.

Almost all dancing costumes worn during major competitions are heavily decorated with sequins or beads…sometimes even feathers. An entire bodice may be made of sequined cloth, with additional decoration extending onto the skirt. Others may prefer dancing apparel that is embellished with hundreds of tiny beads of crystal or colored glass.

The most elaborate dancing dresses are handsewn by skilled seamstresses, or equally skilled male designers. Sometimes a designer may present a sketch to the dancer for approval. On other occasions the dancer may design the dress entirely, or at least specify certain aspects.

Part of the exciting visual experience of watching a major dancing competition is the sight of the brilliant, beautiful swirling costumes of the women as their dancing achieves levels of near-perfection before the judges.

Dressing for Dancing

icamm — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 03:00:03 +0000

Dressing for dancing can cover a wide range of styles and costumes depending upon the type of dancing and the dancing environment. We will address ourselves, however, to the aspects of dressing associated with ballroom or disco dancing, as other dance forms are usually related to performance, such as ballet or musical productions.

Dressing for dancing can be part of the fun of dancing. Whether you are a teenager doing disco dancing or hip hop, or a mature adult enjoying occasional dinner dancing, one’s wardrobe should include clothing particularly suited to dancing.

For the teenager and somewhat older young people, the styles today permit almost any type of garment including minis or tights, tank tops or t-shirts with glitter, and sporty wear for young men in the typical dancing environments for these young persons. Among mature young people and older adults, more dressy and even very glamorous wear is more common in dancing environments

If one is going out to enjoy an evening of dinner dancing, a woman might wear a knee-length evening dress which is low-cut and perhaps full-skirted, to allow for graceful movement when dancing. If going to an expensive club or nightclub for the evening, an even more elaborate evening gown might be worn, but again with styling that allows for freedom of movement accompanying dancing. It goes without saying that in any case the man will be wearing a jacket, and often, according to the venue, a suit. Being suitably dressed is important when enjoying dinner dancing in a gracious environment.

Sometimes dance floors to accommodate fairly large crowds are adjacent to a restaurant/bar or a night club. In these dancing vanues, dress can be quite casual, but not extending to shorts or anything approaching beachwear. When dancing is provided for in some resort areas, often in an outdoor environment, dressing for this of dancing venue is usual typical dressy/casual resort wear…but again not beachwear or casual streetwear such as jeans.

Persons who enjoy ballroom dancing on a regular basis often belong to groups who regularly sponson dances in local dance halls. These ballroom enthusiasts enjoy dressing in evening wear ranging from casual to quite formal, especially on special occasions such as a New Year’s Eve ball. As ballroom dance enthusiasts often participate in competition dancing, these occasions call for very elaborate and beautiful costumes.

The range of appropriate dressing for dancing is quite broad, depending upon age, environment in which dancing takes place, and the tastes and preferences of the dancer.

Disco Dancing

icamm — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 05:00:04 +0000

Disco dancing became popular in small clubs and dance spots a few decades ago, and still retains its popularity particularly among young adults. The disco environment is a far different dancing environment from traditional ballroom dance halls. Music is loud, lights are frequently constantly moving strob lights, creating an almost dizzying atmosphere.

Almost every area except the smallest country towns has sites for disco dancing. In cities such as New York, they are numerous and varied. Disco dancing venues, however, have in common the elements mentioned above; there is nothing gracious or serene about these dancing environments. The energy in a disco club is frenetic and the dancing bears no resemblence to classic dance forms. Partners in disco dancing sometimes seem to be totally isolated from each other, each performing individually inspired gyrations.

Disco dancing is governed by rhythm, and personal response to it. Although individuals develop movements and body language which is uniquely theirs, this is not a dance form which could be taught in any formal way. Usually disco dance floors are packed and dancing is limited to a small area…there is no moving about the floor to any extent. Disco dancing could be called spot dancing because though it involves extreme movements at times, it is done in small space.

Perhaps more drinking takes place in disco dance environments than in regular ballroom dance places, as many serious ballroom dancers eschew alcohol while dancing, or limit drinking to perhaps a single cocktail.

There is no such thing as regulation on attire in disco dancing environments…unless it is
total informality. Dancers wear clothing typical of young adults on a night out…sometimes more outrageous than might be expected on a more formal dance floor. Disco dancing is definitely not for the inhibited or the elderly. It obviously is great fun, however, for those who participate, and certainly contributes to being in good shape, as it requires considerable exertion.

While persons interested in becoming involved in ballroom dancing might wish to take a few lessons, such study is not required to enter the world of disco dancing. Just go to a disco club, take deep breath and let yourself go. Loosen up, and whatever you do will be just fine.
If after one experience you find disco dancing is not for you, just look for the nearest ballroom dancing club.

Dinner Dancing

icamm — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 06:00:04 +0000

There are many and varied forms of dancing from performances to occasional participation in social dancing. But one of the pleasanter forms of dancing for couples is that of combining a lovely dinner in a gracious setting with dancing. Dinner dancing has a special place in social activities and is enjoyed by many couples whether simply casually dating or as life partners out for a romantic evening.

Dinner dancing implies that the dancing is simply a pleasant addition to dinner, like dessert or an after-dinner cordial. It is that and more. Dinner dancing adds an intimate note to an evening out, allowing for romantic physical contact accompanied by soft music to whose rhythms the dancers respond.

Dancing, including dinner dancing, adds an element to a relationship which can strengthen and improve it. Dancing is mutually experience, and involves responsiveness which can create a closeness between partners as nothing else, short of sexual experiences, can.

Normally, dinner dancing takes place in a very pleasant and attractive environment. Usually only restaurants of fine calibre can offer this amenity along with a dinner that is both excellent and graciously served. Thus the entire surroundings for a dinner dancing experience are attractive and conducive to a thoroughly pleasant experience.

While the attire for dinner dancing need not be at all formal, it is nevertheless generally
“dressy” enough that one feels a bit special. When all things combine to make a special evening, couples enjoy an experience which can strengthen their relationship.

Often dinner dancing may be enjoyed with friends, in which case it can be a highly pleasant social occasion enjoyed in the company of others. Thus this type of recreation can be a pleasant change from a trip to the movies or pizza parlor. Any outing with a partner or with friends can be enjoyable, but there is something special about dinner dancing as an evening out.

If you like to dance, make it a point to invite your partner to an evening out that incorporates dinner dancing. If you haven’t danced in a while, and want to begin enjoying this experience on a regular basis, why not take a few dance lessons, together with your partner, to heighten the pleasure of a dance night? And for adding to the romance of a relationship, add occasional dinner dancing to your life. Make a note on your calendar…set a date…to take your partner dinner dancing in the near future.

Dancing to Improve Relationships

icamm — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 17:35:11 +0000

In all probability your local counselor would not think to recommend dancing as a way to improve your relationship with a partner. It is, however, an excellent approach to improving such a relationship, and on occasion, your relationships with friends.

Dancing in this context refers to ballroom dancing rather than the individully studied forms of dance such as ballet. A dancing partner may be friend, acquaintance, or a life partner, the most importance of which is the latter. In any marriage, it is important for mates to have activities which can be enjoyed together to strength relationships. There is no better way to improve such relationships than through ballroom dancing. One reason for this is that dancing is a shared experience, rather than a competitive one. Dancing is intimate and involves a close and immediate response on the part of each partner. This develops a sensitivity which is both mental and physical.

If partners decide to enjoy the shared experience of dancing, they may perhaps take lessons in a studio. This again becomes a shared experience of learning together. When a couple becomes relatively proficient and can execute a number of ballroom dances, there is great pleasure in attending regular dance parties. This, again, involves a share experience, this in a social setting where the pleasure is shared among friends. A love of dancing creates a bond among whose who enjoy ballroom dancing on a regular basis, as well as improving the relationship between partners.

Some dances are particularly romantic and create a bond between partners, such as the tango, rhumba and waltz. Dancing together in close embrace, moving to the rhythms of good music, partners enjoy a particular intimacy which inevitably improves relationships.

Dancing can of course make a good relationship even better. Dancing regularly in a social setting adds a pleasant dimension to a couple’s shared life. If your relationship is a happy one, add to that happiness with the pleasure of dancing. If you feel that your relationship could be improved, explore the world of ballroom dancing as a shared experience that will strengthen and enliven that relationship. If necessary, begin learning together, then take your shared experience out into the world of ballroom dancing where you will find many others who are enjoying this aspect of their life together…constantly improving and strengthening their relationships through dancing.

Learning to Dance – the complex becomes simple

icamm — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 11:14:01 +0000

Regardless of your previous experience as a dancer, my advice is to start at the beginning of the book and study it throughout. Only by studying it from the beginning can you thoroughly understand it.

By moving from the simple to the complex, the complex becomes simple.

Also, let me caution you not to try to progress too fast. Many students, over-enthusiastic at first, attempt too much, then grow discouraged and stop. This is commonly referred to as “the curve of learning.” We learn rapidly at first, then we hit a plateau where things seem to be insurmountably difficult, but if we persist and do not permit discouragement to deter us, we move on smoothly again.

There is always this lapse after the first wave of enthusiasm. After this period, enthusiasm rekindles and progress will remain fairly constant.

Learn to do the first simple steps well before taking up the more difficult steps. To learn to do these simple basic steps well, may seem trifling, but trifles make perfection, and perfection is no trifle.

Social dancing is more popular now than ever before. People have time for it. With each succeeding generation less time is needed to produce the necessities of life, more time is available to cultivate the artistic and social aspects of life. In medieval Europe, only the aristocracy learned to dance well. Dances took place in the courts of kings and queens. Dancing masters were patronized only by the very wealthy. Later it was adopted by the rich merchant class. In our time, it is possible for everyone to become an accomplished dancer.

Dancing with Professionals

icamm — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 04:00:55 +0000

Dancing with professionals is a vastly different experience from dancing with one’s regular dance partner, with whom you may have practiced but not studied for any period of time.
If an individual has made the decision to enter the ballroom dance field for pleasure and/or to expand his or her social life, the best route is to take lessons at a local studio. Such studios offer lessons in every type of ballroom dancing, the lessons being provided by professional dancers.

Ballroom dancing offers a great deal of pleasure when it becomes part of one’s social life. If one has no permanent partner, this need not prevent the person’s taking dancing lessons and attending dances at local clubs or dance sites. Indeed many persons have found permanent partners through studying dancing and attending local dances.

Dancing with a professional while taking lessons to learn or improve ballroom dancing is
probably the best, if not the only way, to learn to properly execute dance steps. One need not, however, dance perfectly to enjoy social dancing…you simply need to know how to execute the steps to various dances and be able to follow a partner’s lead.

A professional dancer will patiently work with a student to teach such dances as the fox trot, waltz, rhumba, cha cha, tango or salsa, step by step, from simple to complex maneuvers. The professional will also teach how to follow the lead of a dancing partner, even if the partner is not a skillful dancer. It is extremely pleasurable to dance with a professional, as he or she guides the learner in a firm, strong manner, helping a student to
dance well.

If a student progresses to a fairly high level of dancing skill, the professional will possibly suggest competition dancing. If the student is studying alone and has no permanent partner, the professional will be her partner in dancing competitions. This also helps to show off the student to best advantage and often win dancing awards.

As one progresses in the study of dancing, and begins to attend regular dances held by the studio or dance organizations, a student must learn to replace the professional with other dancing partners. While one may miss the skillful leads of the professional, it is important to be able to dance well with non-professionals. With a permanent partner, regular study and constant dancing, an amateur dancer can achieve near-professional levels of ballroom dancing.

Learning to Dance – The rhytm

icamm — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:13:03 +0000

Dancing has been described as poetry in motion. By observing the similarity between the rhythm of speech, particularly as applied to poetry, and the rhythm of motion, as applied to dancing, anyone who can recite a simple jingle in rhythm can learn to dance.

Occasionally a person will come to our studio and insist that he absolutely has no rhythm. We frequently ask such persons to read: “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” After pointing out to them that they do have a sense of rhythm, or they could not have recited this poem in perfect meter, they develop confidence enough to apply themselves to learning rhythm of movement.

I have never met a person who could speak, who could not recite poetry rhythmically. Reciting poetry, naturally, is easier for most people than moving the body in perfect rhythm. Some people learn to coordinate more easily than others, but with practice it can be learned, and it is simply not true that you, or anyone else, cannot learn to dance because you do not have a sense of rhythm.

If you are a beginner who has never danced at all, you can, if you apply yourself, learn all of the steps presented in this book. If you are already enrolled in a dancing class, you can use this book as a supplement and as a guide for practice at home. In dancing, as in any other art, practice brings perfection.

If you are an advanced dancing student, or a teacher, you can find aid and inspiration here by acquiring a new viewpoint, as the author has found valuable aid in the dancing books he has studied throughout his career.

Dancing Under the Stars

icamm — Fri, 30 May 2008 04:00:05 +0000

Nothing is more romantic than dancing under the stars, particularly if your partner is someone close to you. Dancing in general creates a closeness among couples. It combines pleasant body contact, rhythmic movements to music, and usually an environment which is happy and cheerful.

The pleasure of dancing is enhanced when it can be enjoyed on a lovely evening under the stars. Decades ago it was common for dance bands to tour the country, often playing in small towns, performing in open-air environments. Sometimes the dance floor was a painted wooden floor in an outdoor building of simple structure, open on all sides. Such environments were not elegant and gracious, but the dancing was thoroughly enjoyable to those who participated, and who often traveled miles to enjoy this dancing under the stars.

Today those who enjoy dancing under the stars can find numerous places to enjoy this special treat. In warm environments, many restaurants have a space adjacent to the restaurant itself where dancing can be enjoyed in an open air environment. Although sometimes the dancing couples are under a roof, being out of doors is tantamount to dancing under the stars.

Most resorts, particularly those in the tropics such as in the Caribbean islands, open air dancing is available in many places. Sometimes the dance floors are small when they are part of the restaurant or bar itself, but other spots for dancing are large and accommodate large crowds. These resort spots are usually the scene of regular dancing by couples who enjoy particularly dancing in the open air and when possible, under the stars.

Even when dancing under the stars may not be possible in a regular dance environment, anyone with a porch or balcony or patio can play a tape on a warm starry night and enjoy the delights of dancing under the stars with an important partner.

Perhaps your own dancing experiences have been limited to more routine occasions, such as occasional dinner dancing or perhaps a dance at a local club. If you haven’t yet experienced dancing under the stars, why not make a point of arranging this experience with an important partner. You’ll find that the stars above, good music and a dance floor below can contribute added pleasure to an evening out dancing.

Learning to Dance – personality developer

icamm — Thu, 29 May 2008 11:15:28 +0000

A nation-wide survey made by eighty leading psychologists proved dancing to be the best-known personality developer. According to the popular syndicated newspaper feature: “Let’s Explore Your Mind,” owned by the John S. Dille Company of Chicago, “There are no delinquents among children who study dancing.”

While it is true that you can learn to dance through a study of this book, nothing can really take the place of a dancing class, because in a class you have the companionship of others, the inspiration given by a good teacher, and the fun of sharing your enthusiasm as you develop perfection.

This book, as a supplement to your lesson, will aid you to learn more rapidly, but dancing is a social skill and in a dancing class you can immediately start applying it socially. We are by nature gregarious creatures and we enjoy dancing best when we are sharing our pleasure.

That is why group dances such as the Virginia Reel and the Square Dance will always be with us in some form.

Besides being one of the oldest forms of art, dancing is probably the most universally popular. Anyway you look at it-dancing is fun!

Dancing to Relieve Stress

icamm — Tue, 13 May 2008 23:16:30 +0000

Few people would disagree with the statement that we live in times of stress, and that our individual lives are often stressful. Everyone needs some form of activity to relieve such stress and occupy body and mind in relaxing and constructive ways. Some already know that dancing is a great antidote. Many others perhaps should explore and discover the realm of dancing, and learn how dancing can relieve the stress and strain of busy lives.

For time immemorial, dancing has been apart of human cultures. Perhaps dancing came into being because humans inherently recognize its benefits.Many physical activities can be stress relievers, but dancing has several attributes which make it an effective stress reliever.

Dancing in itself, total body movement which increases heartbeat, circulation and breathing, is a very healthy exercise. Add to this the fact that dancing is done in an atmosphere of social community and pleasure, that it is done to music and usually with a partner with whom one has a good relationship…and you have all the ingredients of a great stress reliever.

Many people are fully aware of the benefits of dancing, especially social dancing, and incorporate it into their daily lives. Some study dancing, which takes them to a studio and an environment outside daily chores. Usually those who study dancing, particularly ballroom dancing, also indulge in this happy activity regularly. They find it not only a good stress reliever, but a contributor to overall body/mind health.

Dancing can not only relieve the overall stress in your life, but it can help develop a strong relationship between partners, as it is an intimate, pleasurable shared experience. And a good relationship with a partner also helps to combat stress in one’s life.

The fact that dancing in any form is usually performed to music adds another element to dancing as a stress reliever. Music sooths and stimulates in pleasant ways. The music to which ballroom dancing is done is also often reminiscent of pleasant times, past and present, and in this way brings another element to the process of stress relief. Pleasant memories evoked by music and the words that accompany songs are another antidote to stress. All things considered, dancing offers one of the most pleasant and effective methods of reducing stress in our daily lives. If you haven’t tried it, take the steps…dance steps, that is, to include dancing in your life.

Dancing to Improve Health

icamm — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:30:03 +0000

Every informed person knows that regular exercise is an essential element of good health. Those who regularly do some form of dancing know that it makes them feel good and improves overall well being. But few actually think of dancing as a way to improve health.
It is just that, if done on a regular basis. Like other forms of exercise, dancing, to actually contribute to good health, needs to be practiced regularly.

Dancing of course has many forms. If one is studying ballet, for instance, regular lessons are part of a regimen that includes daily practice, thus providing consistent exercise. Dancing exercises all the muscles of the body, increasing circulation, improving breathing and contributes to overall body stimulation. Ballet as a form of dancing, however, is only enjoyed by a relatively few persons.

Social dancing, however, can be done by anyone, and provides healthy exercise for anyone dancing on a regular basis. Ballroom dancing contributes to good health on several levels. Not only does it exercise the entire body when properly done….especially some of the more energetic dances such as swing, cha cha and disco dancing…but it does it in a pleasant manner in a social setting. Enjoying dancing with a partner in a social setting also contributes to mental health, as it is relaxing and stimulation, and chases cares and tensions away.

Many serious ballroom dancers take lessons, practice several times a week, and attend social dancing sessions once or twice weekly. This degree of dancing provides sufficient exercise to promote good health, physically and mentally. Most serious dancers also reject the use of alcohol when dancing, though at other times they may enjoy a cocktail. Abstaining from the use of alcohol when dancing is also a healthy practice. Dancing, on the other hand, encourages generous intake of liquids, preferably water, which also contributes to good health.

Dancing is an enjoyable way to lose weight when practiced regularly. It is far healthier than strict dieting, which can actually harm one’s body. Dancing one’s way to a slender figure is fun and rewarding. It is certainly preferable to exercising with machines in a crowded gym.
Certainly any form of regular exercise is a good thing, but dancing is an especially enjoyable way to work toward better health and a more relaxed mental attitude. If you want to improve your health, your mental attitude and your social life, try dancing your way to all of these benefits.

Dancing Latin Dances

icamm — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:15:02 +0000

Some of the most popular ballroom dances are those which originated in Latin countries, and require some training and particular skills to properly perform them. Ballroom dancing in Latin style can be great fun and bring a lot of enjoyment, but couples or individuals may need to take lessons to properly execute the Latin dances and include them in their social dancing activities.

Latin dancing includes the rhumba, cha cha, tango (also Argentine tango) salsa and others. In most Latin dances, body movements and more pronounced and specific than in many of the traditional ballroom dances such as fox trot and waltz. Of course correct body posture and body “language” are tremendously important in all ballroom dancing, but often in the Latin dances such body language is more exaggerated and pronounced.

In dancing the rhumba, for instance, specific hip movements are very important, and all body movements are quite sensuous. When dancing the rhumba, the male lead works to present or “show off” the female partner. When dancing the cha cha, however, a very lively Latin dance, both partners are equally active, each mirroring the other’s movements.

Dancing the tango requires quick responsiveness on the part of the female partner…again with many movements being sensuous in nature. The Argentine tango is particularly demanding in terms of technique, with many fast foot movements back and forth between partners. Dancing the Argentine tango demands a particularly close relationship between dancing partners, as the movements which lead or direct the female partner are very subtle dancing movements. Sometimes simply the angle of a shoulder, or direction of a foot movement direct the dance partner to the next move.

The salsa, a fast stepping dance, more closely resembles the cha cha in terms of partner responses and mutual step execution. Dancing is energetic with rapid movements and quick switches. Dancing the salsa is popular currently among young dancers particularly.

One of the more unusual and dramatic of Latin dances is the paso doble…and dancing this dance requires considerable space. It is not conducive to social dancing in limited space, and is often thought of as exhibition dancing or competition dancing.

If you like dancing and include it in your social activities, consider taking some studio lessons in Latin dancing. It will add spice to your regular dancing experiences and open new avenues of dancing experience. Latin dances might well become your favorite when you’re enjoying your evenings of ballroom dancing, and will at the very least add variety to your regular dancing ventures.

Dancing is fun

icamm — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 11:12:24 +0000

Dancing is fun. Unfortunately, however, many persons miss out on this fun because they do not dance well. Girls are apprehensive that they will not be able to follow their partners. Men are worried about stepping on their partner’s toes.

Many persons are reluctant to try to learn to dance, because they believe they do not have a sense of rhythm.

This is regrettable, for all of us have a sense of rhythm. Rhythm is one of the governing laws that makes for order in the universe. Rhythm appears in many phases. The competent typist has rhythm; the public speaker, the musician, the author all make use of rhythm in the practice of their arts.

Even the engine in our automobile has rhythm-it must fire in perfect time to operate successfully.

While it is true that some people find it difficult to express their innate sense of rhythm, this is due largely to some form of inhibition. Primitive man, completely uninhibited, found it easy to stomp his feet to the beat of a tom-tom, giving expression to his sense of rhythm.

We do not dance in such an abandoned manner because we feel ridiculous to let ourselves go so completely. Our desire to express rhythm is tempered by our feeling that we do not know how to dance as well as others.

Even after learning a few of the simpler steps, some people are still afraid to relax and keep time to the accompanying music because they fear they will make a mistake and be ridiculed. This fear of criticism and ridicule can be so overpowering as to cause certain persons to become immobile. If the desire to dance is thwarted often enough, a psychological block can be set up in the nervous system which leads to discouragement and a desire to stop trying, and these folks say, “I have no sense of rhythm.”