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Module 3 Lesson 1 - Modern Dance

Modern dance evolved from classical ballet in the late 19th century as dancers rebelled against ballet's rigid techniques and structures. Modern dance is characterized by freer, less structured movement that allows for more creative interpretation of music. Unlike ballet which focuses on precise steps, modern dance emphasizes the dancer's own emotional expression and flexibility of movement. Some common basic modern dance moves include the curl down and up, leg swings, flat back, and tendu.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
132 views2 pages

Module 3 Lesson 1 - Modern Dance

Modern dance evolved from classical ballet in the late 19th century as dancers rebelled against ballet's rigid techniques and structures. Modern dance is characterized by freer, less structured movement that allows for more creative interpretation of music. Unlike ballet which focuses on precise steps, modern dance emphasizes the dancer's own emotional expression and flexibility of movement. Some common basic modern dance moves include the curl down and up, leg swings, flat back, and tendu.
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Modern Dance

Definition of Dancing

Dancing is an art form of movement of the human body which follows music and rhythm. It
can be used in the form of performance, expression and social interaction and even
spirituality. Folk Dance is a type of social interaction dance. However, modern dance is a
type of expression dance in a performance setting.

It is usually divided into few categories however some dances like waltz and tango belong
into few categories. Commonly, Dance can be used to express ideas, emotions or even tell a
story.

What is Modern Dance?

Modern Dance is an evolution from classical ballet. All various strict techniques found in
classical ballet are totally opposite of modern dance. It has more flexibility so the
choreographer can be more creative in making a new piece. Modern dance also can be
seen as a fusion of many dances. The sophisticated movement of modern dance already
developed many styles and techniques. The beauty of modern dance is that it allows a
whole flow of creativity which can be a source of inspiration with the music.
The rigid and premeditated style of ballet made some dancers of the 19th century to rebel
and experiment on a new style that is more loose and flexible. The result of this
experimentation was the birth of modern dance in the late 19th century. It eventually
flourished in the early 20th century. Compared to ballet, modern dance is more free and
relaxed as it focuses more on the dancer’s own interpretations of the music rather than on
structured steps as in ballet.

Basic Modern Dance Steps

Modern dance is an emotion-driven genre; thus, the steps in modern dance vary from one
dancer to another. Modern dancers are advised to be observant and creative because
what they can see in many other dancers or in the natural movements in their surroundings
can be adapted in modern dance.

Most Common Modern Dance Moves

Curl Down and Up


Start with the first position in jazz. Put your arms at your side and look downward. Slowly, curl
your spine over. Be careful not to collapse. Before you go down the floor as you curl, bend
your knees. As you reach your lowest, stop, and then go back upward slowly until you are
back to your first position

Leg Swings
After doing the Curl Down and Up, do the second position of jazz. Slowly slide your right leg
forward en pointe until you go back to first position. Then brush the same toe backward while
slightly bending the knee of your left leg.

Flat-Back
Position with your feet parallel and hip distance apart. Bend over and keep your spine as
straight as possible, then raise your arms with your palms facing each other. In a single fluid
movement, raise back up with your arms.

Tendu
Stand with your feet parallel to each other. Then have one foot point forward then back to
parallel position. Do this again, with your foot moving to the side then back to parallel
position. On the third time, move your foot backward, then back to parallel position.

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