4 Tips for Becoming a Modern Dancer

Modern dance is a form of performance art that has existed since the late nineteenth century. It is an extremely broad genre of dance, but its main goal is to be iconoclastic. Iconoclasm is the act of attacking or rejecting accepted systems. This rebellious style of movement can be presented in an endless amount of ways. Due to its fluid nature, practically anyone can perform a modern dance. If you have an interest in it at any point in your life, here are four tips for becoming a modern dancer.

1. Train Your Body

The type of modern you practice requires various levels of training. If you want to practice Horton or Graham you'll need to have a lifetime of dance lessons. A newcomer to dance can train in these forms, but a professional performance is highly unlikely. No matter what you practice, preparing your body is essential. First, gather excess energy for your training. The amount of physical exhaustion dance causes is intense, so you'll need to have more energy than usual. Adopt a healthy and nutritious diet. Go to bed sooner and get up earlier. If you're still having problems, consider other energy providers like Thrive. Search "what is thrive" or questions about other products to determine if the option is right for you. Next, find a nearby studio or online classes. A studio is ideal as you'll be able to get personalized instruction. If you want to use Western European styles, be sure to take ballet. Above all, keep at it and don't let yourself stop training.

2. Study History

Modern dance can be complicated to wrap your head around, so studying its history is vital for understanding it. You may have no idea as to what you should be creating. Do your work and find out the true intentions behind this dance form. This also helps you know what to train in. If you see yourself in Twyla Tharp, train in her style. Those who want to be strong movers should study Lester Horton's technique. You should also know what companies currently specialize in modern. A modern dancer that's never heard of Alvin Ailey isn't likely to make many professional connections.

3. Create an Artist Statement

It may surprise you to learn that perfect technique isn't the driving force behind modern dance. For the most part, it's the intended meaning or story the dance is portraying. If you're planning on creating modern dance, or even just performing it, you need to know what messages you want to convey. This can be accomplished with an artist's statement. An artist's statement provides a succinct explanation of what art you plan to make and what you want to accomplish. Simply stating that you want to perform modern dance isn't nearly enough. Take the time to consider exactly what type of dance you will portray. Will it involve theatrical monologues or singing? Will the audience be involved? What do you want viewers to walk away thinking? Consider these questions and create a well-written paragraph or two.

4. Collaborate

Modern dance is an ever-evolving performance art. Therefore, it demands constant collaboration and discussion. Paying attention to industry trends will help you attract larger audiences. While you shouldn't sacrifice your art, you'll be able to advertise more effectively. Collaboration will also gain you contacts. Modern dance, despite its popularity, is a fairly small community. Any professional modern dancer is likely to have multiple contacts in the field. The more friends you make, the more opportunities you have.

Modern dance is one of the best methods for expressing artistic meaning. It has the ability to speak directly to the audience and convey an infinite number of messages. Even if you have no dance experience, anyone with an artistic drive can practice this style. If you follow these tips you'll be well on your way to performing modern dance.