Jazz dance: beginners

What is the course about?

This is a practical course introducing you to or improving your dance technique and vocabulary. Classes are structured to begin to prepare the physical strength and flexibility required to use in a wide vartiey of dance styles. One minute you may be dancing to the rhythm of a drum, the next to a funky jazz style.
The main aim is to provide a fun practical environment where you can learn essential dance technique, improve dance and performance skills as well as your own confidence.

What will we cover?

Each lesson will start with a full body group warm-up, followed by corner to corner/co-ordination/technical exercises. The fundamental values of Jazz dance including flexibility, rhythm and core strength are covered taught using structured exercises and combinations. There is a chance at the end of the lesson to dance your routine whilst the teacher watches, coaches and comments.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

Demonstrate essential Jazz technique
Discover aspects to the background of Jazz
Identify improved co-ordination, flexibility, strength and stamina
Perform a Jazz dance with greater confidence.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is for those who are new to dance as well as those looking to improve and gain further experience.

A beginner’s dance class isn’t just for newcomers. In any beginner’s dance class there will be student’s from all types of backgrounds. We all have different learning techniques and paces. If your first class seems overwhelming and you can’t get it the first time, don’t worry: dance is heavily reliant on repetition so it will happen. We want you to learn and to have fun so just give it your best and keep coming back!

In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:
• Follow spoken instructions
• Use numbers to recognise rhythms within dance.
• Work within groups and pairs safely.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course has a physical approach from beginning to end with structured exercises to improve different qualities. The class is tutor led and you will be taught through demonstration and explanation. During the class participants will be given an opportunity to demonstrate the work and receive verbal feedback from your tutor. We encouraged you to work in your own time to perfect the work but there is no formal requirement to do so.

HEALTH CHECK
You may or may not be asked to participate in rigorous activity from time to time. Please consider whether you could do this, if you are in any doubt consult a medical practitioner.

As part of the course content, your tutor may record your image for initial and ongoing assessment purposes. You are entitled to decline to participate in the recording of your image.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please wear clothing that does not restrict your movement and allows you to adapt to changes in your body temperature. Tights, leotard or clothing that does not restrict movement will allow your tutor to see your work more clearly. Jazz shoes/sneakers or similar, no outdoor shoes please. Students to tie their hair back if it is long for their own safety and comfort. Jewellery should be removed at the start of the class.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Continue with this class or explore Musical theatre dance, Classical Ballet: beginners or try one of our many other dance courses.