A Variety of Dance Styles
Considering that dance is a form of movement that offers one to express their individuality, personality, uniqueness, emotions, and more, it is good to know that these factors can be expressed in different ways according to the different styles that dance offers. The various styles of dance all bring something different to the table and can offer a variety of things.
#1: Hip-Hop
Hip hop dance is a dynamic and expressive form of movement that originated in the urban communities of New York City during the 1970s. Rooted in African American and Latino cultures, hip hop dance encompasses a wide range of styles, including breaking, popping, locking, krumping, and many more. It is often performed to hip hop music, however other genres of music can be incorporated as well, like R&B. Hip hop contains elements of freestyle, storytelling, intricate footwork, etc. It has immensely evolved throughout the years and has had a heavy influence on music videos, movies, commercials, and the media in general.
#2: Ballet
Ballet originates from the Italian Renaissance courts as it’s a classical style that highlights its graceful movements, technique, and expression. Ballet is a very strict category of dance that requires heavy training in order to perfect the elements that make up the style. It allows dancers to tell stories through fluid movements that can have an emotional impact. Ballet is a beautiful and elegant style of dance as it is performed to traditional, classical, and lyrical music.
#3: Contemporary
Contemporary is a style of dance that is very expressive and emotional. It draws inspiration from ballet, jazz, and modern dance as it incorporates intricate techniques as well as room for freedom and creativity. It emerged in the mid-20th century in the U.S. and Europe and soon became more popular. Contemporary involves lots of freestyle, fluidity, balance, flexibility, and a wide range of motions.
#4: Tap:
Tap originated in the 19th century in the U.S. and it is a rhythmic form of dance. Tappers use metal plates attached to their tap shoes in order to create distinct sounds and rhythms. It involves lots of footwork and improvisation as it’s influenced from the African and Irish traditions. Tap is a very beloved form of dance in today’s age as it has an infectious energy and rich history.
