The night is winding down. You've just returned from a rejuvenating dance class in which you learnt new moves, performed, and socialised with other dancers. You can continue to learn new things from a dancing lesson even after it has ended! Dancing is the best way to make the most of development.
1. Dissect the tunes
Choreographers call attention to specific musical moments while they dance. A motion might include, for example, striking a bass that is hidden by snares or replicating the singer's vocal melody. When you listen to the song in class, you might not be able to hear the same things that the choreographer heard and danced to.
After you've memorised a piece, find the music, put on some headphones (this will help you find those hidden ones), and carefully analyse the tune. You will be able to hear every note of the music and visualise it.
You'll feel more at ease dancing once you've gained a better understanding of the music.
2. Break it down into sections.
It's quite normal if you don't understand the piece on the first day you learn it, or even on the second day, you practise it. You are not working out for an opponent; you are working out for yourself! As you progress through the piece, take your time reviewing each image and pathway.
Accelerate when you are confident enough to do so. Even if you only have an hour to learn a piece in class, you may give yourself the time you need to properly absorb and perfect the movement by practising afterwards.
3. Record a video of the choreographer executing the piece.
Having a guide when practising is usually advantageous. Recipes guide bakers in creating the perfect cake. If they just threw a bunch of random stuff together, the cake wouldn't be as good.
A video recipe book might also be useful while practising a piece. Obtain or locate a recording of the choreographer performing their piece during the event.
(***However, always ask the choreographer whether it's acceptable to videotape them first - politeness!) Make a recording of yourself performing the piece as well! Recording yourself can help you see how you are executing the piece about the choreographer, especially if you don't have a mirror or have a small one at home. You should also read Everything a Beginner Needs to Know.
The idea is not to be a carbon clone of the choreographer, but to use their execution, musicality, and performance as a guide. You will gain a better understanding of your skills and limitations as you observe yourself dancing, which will help you pinpoint what to practise.
There is always more to learn from a class than can be learned in the 1.5 hours it is held. Maintain a positive attitude and persevere no matter how many times it takes. The key to "getting it" is repetition.
4. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable
You may learn moves in class that feel strange and unnatural. However, this should not be interpreted as permission to only do half of them until you find a combination you prefer. At SSDA, we encourage our students to achieve their best and to step beyond their comfort zone. Join our Mumbai Dance Classes for a good time. You can also take online dance classes.
Try something new! If you stay in your comfort zone, you will never be able to grow.
As you continue to practise new and unexpected moves, you will acquire confidence in your body and progressively learn to trust it more.
