When students reach the age of seven years I
will
begin introducing elements of Jazz dance into their combination
class. Many eight year olds will have Jazz routines in our annual
Recital. EXTRA JAZZ class is available for students who wish
to jazz dance twice a week.
Many parents ask "What is Jazz?" The term encompasses
many styles of dance. A simple definition is Jazz dance is dance
to jazz music. But it also includes popular music, rock music,
blues, and show music. Mostbroadway style dancewould be called
jazz. Because
jazz dance is based on the popular culture of America it has
historical roots that have changed over time.
Jazz uses the language of ballet such as plie,
jete, and pirouette, but puts the moves together in a different
way. I try to introduce different styles and periods of jazz
to my students. Jazz dance is fun but requires much training
in order to do well.
