Types of dances for girls without a partner. Start in science

An art such as dance began to develop at the dawn of humanity. Primitive tribes had their own special ritual dances, which were an important part of their traditions and existence. Their descendants, who began to build the first states, turned these gestures into part of the sovereign symbols. Thus, the first types of dances appeared, which to a greater extent testified to the origin of man, his roots. Today people dance everywhere, and their movements are no longer limited by any boundaries determined by the state. Well, let's take a closer look at what types of dances exist in certain parts of the planet and how they become popular all over the world.

What is dance

This term refers to a type of art in which artistic images are conveyed through plastic and rhythmic body movements. Any dance is inextricably linked with a certain music that suits its style. During this “ritual”, certain positions of the person’s body, the figures that he can show, and transitions from one pose to another are very important. Considering what types of dances there are in our time, it is easy to assume that there are simply countless numbers of such figures and movements. That is why they are divided into categories, which largely depend on the place of origin of a particular dance, as well as on its other features (pairs, group, single, etc.).

The history of the origins of dance art

Even during the existence of primitive tribes, the earliest types of dances arose. They were given names depending on the emotions they accompanied. For example, a tribe might try to bring rain after a long drought, and for this purpose a special ritual was composed, during which people moved in a certain way. Through rhythmic body movements, they thanked their gods, welcomed the birth of children and saw off their deceased ancestors. As an art form, dance was founded in the period of antiquity. At this time, special choreographic performances dedicated to the gods began to appear in Greece and Rome. At the same time, the very first oriental types of dances developed in Babylon, Assyria, the Persian kingdom and other Asian countries. In the Middle Ages, this art found itself beyond the line of legality due to the spiritual views of mankind. But with the advent of the Renaissance, it began to develop and improve again. In the 16th century, a type of choreography called ballet appeared, which soon became a separate art form.

Classics and its variations

Professional dancers, learning this art from an early age, initially master classical dances. Their types depend on which program is taken as a basis - European or Latin. These two subgroups are united by good old classical choreography, which has much in common with ballet. The bottom line is that rehearsals take place precisely under classical music, dancers perform stretches, study positions, plie, pique and other choreographic techniques. In the future, the quality of the dance will depend precisely on the purity and correctness of all these movements.

European program

• Slow waltz. This is a golden dance classic, which is always accompanied by appropriate music in three quarters. For each beat, dancers take three steps, with the first being the main one, the second determining the angle of rotation, and the third being an auxiliary one, allowing the weight to be transferred to the other leg.
• Tango. It was originally an Argentine folk dance, but later became incredibly popular all over the world and moved into the category of European classics. Its essence lies in the fact that two partners move energetically and rhythmically to the appropriate music (it is also called tango).
• Viennese Waltz. This is a kind of analogy to a simple waltz, only it is danced a little faster and more energetically.
• Foxtrot. This is a fast and vibrant dance that is performed both in pairs and in groups. It was invented by Harry Fox (hence the name) in the early 20th century, and its popularity has not waned since then.
• Quickstep. This is the fastest dance from the European classics. It is performed in 4/4 rhythm, and there are as many as 50 bars per minute. It takes years of practice and grueling training to dance the foxtrot properly. It is important that all movements look easy, relaxed, and performed with incredible precision.

Latin American program

Popular types of dances that today often go beyond the classics will be listed here. Based on them, a wide variety of variations are created to simplify the choreography and make these dances accessible to everyone.

• Samba. A Brazilian dance that arose from the fusion of African and Portuguese traditions. It is danced in 2/4 time signature, with up to 54 bars per minute. In the classical version, it is performed to the beat of drums or other Latin percussion instruments.
• Cha-cha-cha. Characterized by much slower choreography. The time signature is 4/4, there are 30 bars per minute. The dance is most popular in Cuba, where it originated in the 20s last century. Today it is included in the classical dance program.
• Rumba. The slowest and most intimate dance, which is always performed in pairs. Accuracy is not important here, as in other types of choreography. It is only important that the partners’ poses are very beautiful, that they form unique figures, and at the same time, each of their movements should be as flexible as possible.
• Paso Doble. This dance has its roots in Spanish bullfighting. Here the partner often portrays a bullfighter, and his partner - a cloak. The essence of the choreography is the double step (hence the name).
• Jive. African-American choreography, which also arose in the 20th century and became widespread in the United States. Jive is danced in swing mode, but at the same time it is very different from its modern analogue of the same name. Time signature - 4/4, number of beats per minute - 44.

Ballet

Everything is now existing species dances are more or less based on ballet. This art officially separated from general choreography in the 17th century, when the first French ballet school emerged. What are the features of ballet? Here the choreography is inextricably linked with the music and facial expressions of the performers. As a rule, each production has a specific script, which is why it is often called a mini-play. True, in some cases there are also “unscripted” ballets, where dancers simply demonstrate their incomparable and precise skills. Ballet is divided into three categories: romantic, classical and modern. The first is always a mini-play on a love theme ("Romeo and Juliet", "Carmen", etc.). The classic one can personify any plot (for example, “The Nutcracker”), but its important element is choreography based on acrobatics and excellent plasticity. The scope of modern ballet includes different types dancing. There are elements of jive, Latin choreography, and classical music. A distinctive feature is that everyone dances in pointe shoes.

Modern choreography

Nowadays, modern types of dances are popular all over the world, regardless of traditions and religion. Their names are known to everyone, and at the same time almost everyone can learn to perform them. Such body movements do not require special stretching, preparation or natural plasticity. The main thing is to join the rhythm and become one with the music. Let us immediately note that all the dances that will be listed below are the basis for the so-called “club choreography”. These movements are quickly learned and mixed by modern youth, resulting in a unique mix that can be seen in any nightclub in any city in the world.

Modern dance

• Tectonic. It arose in the 21st century on the basis of jumpstyle, hip-hop, popping, techno style, etc. Always dancing to fast electronic music.
• Strip dance. This is the basis of any striptease, in other words, a dance that may involve further undressing. The essence lies in plastic movements, and also often in interaction with other objects. This is how the famous pool dance, lap dance, etc. were born.
• Go go. Erotic dance that does not involve undressing. Aimed at entertaining the crowd in the club. May contain any plastic elements that will correspond to the playing music.
• Hakka. A dance that originated in the Netherlands, in hardcore circles. His movements are based on music in this style.
• Jumpstyle. The dance, based on jumping, is one of the few modern ones that is danced in pairs. But at the same time, it has a peculiarity - partners should not touch each other.
• D'n'B Step. This is exclusively an attribute of the drum and bass style. Choreography always depends on the rhythm and tempo of the music.
• Shuffle. The dance originated in Australia and is based on jazz. All movements, in particular the steps characteristic of this style, are performed to electronic fast music at a faster tempo.

Based on the plot of the movie "Step Up"...

After the first part of this wonderful film was released, young people actively began to study all kinds of street dances, which are characterized by freestyle and at the same time incredible plasticity and precision of movements. Let us list their main types, which have already become “street classics”:

• Hip-hop. This is a whole cultural movement that originated in the 70s in New York among representatives of the working class. It covers not only unique choreography, but also slang, fashion, behavior and other areas of life. Within hip-hop culture, there are a wide variety of dance types, more or less difficult to perform. This includes breaking, DJing, MCing, club hip-hop and much more.
• Breakdancing, also called b-boying. Initially, it was part of hip-hop culture, and then, due to its uniqueness, it became a separate dance.
• Crip Walk. A dance that originated in Los Angeles. Characterized by steps that are performed in the spirit of improvisation, at a very fast pace.
• Popping. The dance is based on the rapid contraction and relaxation of muscles, due to which the human body shudders. It is important to observe certain positions and postures in which such movements look most impressive.

In the spirit of folk traditions

In each state, in addition to the flag and anthem, there is another, no less important attribute - dance. Each nation is characterized by its own movements, its own rhythms and tempos, which have developed historically. Based on the characteristics of the choreography, you can easily determine what nationality a person is and what country he represents. Such performances are performed mainly in a group, but there are some exceptions when only two partners perform. Now we will look at the types of folk dances that are the most popular all over the world. By the way, some of them became the basis of classical choreography, and some served as an excellent start for the development of street dancing.

Dances of the peoples of the world

• Attan is the official folk dance of Afghanistan. It is also performed by many neighboring peoples in various variations.
• Hopak - dance of the peoples of Ukraine. It is always performed in national costumes, in a very fast and energetic rhythm. It is characterized by jogging, squats, jumping and other active body movements.
• Trepak is a native Russian dance, which is also common in Ukraine. It is always performed in a bipartite meter, and is accompanied by fractional steps and stamping.
• Zika is a famous Chechen dance performed exclusively by men. As a rule, it is an accompanying element for important religious events.
• Krakowiak is the most famous Polish dance. Performed in a fast rhythm, always with a straight back.
• Round dance. A dance-game that was previously popular among many nations. The rules are different everywhere, but the point is that a huge number of people take part in the round dance.
• Lezginka is the most famous choreographic performance in the Caucasus. It is danced by Chechens, Armenians, Georgians, Azerbaijanis and many other peoples.

Types of oriental dances

In the east, the art of dance had a completely different development than in the countries of Europe and America. Men here always performed group mini-performances that accompanied some important events. A woman's dance is a kind of sacrament. A wife can dance only for her husband, and alone. This choreographic culture has been widespread for centuries throughout Western Asia, but in each country it has its own characteristics. Therefore, now we will look at what types of dances exist in this or that Eastern state and how they are characteristic.

• Turkish. They are always performed in bright costumes, accompanied by fast music. They are characterized by rhythmic movements, very high plasticity and even acrobatics.
• Egyptian. This is the most modest oriental choreography. The costumes are restrained, as are the movements, and the music is slow and measured. There is no place for frivolous body movements in Egyptian dances - this is considered debauchery.
• Arabic. This is real scope for improvisation and variation. If you know what types of dances there are in the East and how they are performed, you can put all the techniques and techniques together, and you will get an excellent performance in the Arabic style.
• Lebanese. The most unique and unusual. They combine elements of Turkish and Egyptian choreography. Therefore, fast and rhythmic movements alternate with slow and measured ones. The action is also characterized by the use of foreign objects (cymbals, canes, etc.).
• Persian dance consists of graceful movements that mainly involve the arms, head and long hair.

How did belly dancing come about?

Almost all women in the world dream of mastering this choreographic style, but only a few master it perfectly. Many attribute its origins to the Middle East, but in fact the dance originated in India. Even before the birth of Christ, this custom was transferred from their homeland by the gypsies to Egypt, where it became popular. They began to emerge there different kinds belly dancing, which soon spread throughout the Middle East. Well, let's look at which of them are now the most famous:

• Dance with the snake. It requires a combination of flexibility and courage, as well as the ability to handle this animal.
• Dance with fire. During the performance, torches, candles, lamps with essential oils and much more can be used that glorifies the cult of fire.
• Dance with cymbals. This hand percussion instrument is a relative of the Spanish castanets. Performing rhythmic movements, the dancer accompanies herself.
• Raqs el-Sharqi is a belly dance that involves the area from the navel to the hips.
• Raqs el-Shamadam is a performance in which a woman dances with a candelabra on her head. Very popular in Egypt.

Types of sports dances

Sports dancing is a kind of analogue of classical ballroom choreography. The difference is that the dancers are trained according to a more strict and intensive program, with special emphasis on stretching, precision of movements, and speed of their execution. An important component of any sports dance is not the beauty of the performance, but the technicality of performing all the movements. In general, this subgroup consists of choreographic productions known to us, among which there are standard European and Latin programs.

Conclusion

We looked at what types of dances exist in different countries ah, we’ve decided on their styles and features. As it turned out, each choreographic production has its own tempo, rhythm, and character of performance. Also, many dances cannot exist without facial expressions, certain costumes, style and even the mood of those who perform them. Therefore, if you are going to master this art, it is important to initially decide which style you like to dance in, and which of them is most suitable for you in terms of capabilities and even the structural features of your figure. And in the future, for self-improvement, you will only need diligence and practice. Go for it!

So, you decided to take up dancing, but don't know which style to choose? Did you come to the studio, see a list of unfamiliar names like Go-Go, Stretching, Waaking and the like, suggested to you by the administrator, and were horrified? Do not be afraid! This list represents different types of dances, and to understand what is right for you, we suggest reading this article.

First, let's define What gave you the idea to take up dancing? Have you fallen in love with a guy at a disco who moves cool, and are you embarrassed to approach him? Or did you decide to surprise your boyfriend with your new abilities, left alone with him? Or, once again looking in the mirror, did you suddenly decide that you have extra fat on your hips? Or maybe you just want to relax after work and add variety to your day? All this determines the purpose with which you come to the dance studio. And don’t be afraid to seem clumsy—you go to class to learn!

The most popular among girls today remains a direction called Go-Go. This is a dance that girls dance on the club stage, coming out to help tired visitors. Surprisingly, Go-go has been around for 50 years. It came to us from California as an alternative to striptease. This dance is aimed at liberation and development of self-confidence. It’s hard to say that this is some kind of independent style, rather a combination modern trends(strip, jazz, Latin, erotic dance, etc.) Go-Go will teach you to easily improvise to any club music, move clearly and beautifully, combine combinations of movements and correctly connect them together. Such preparation in a dance studio will give you confidence in your movements, a suitable emotional mood and a lot of internal positivity. In a club you can immediately stand out from total mass and attract the attention of even the most indifferent guy.

Lady-Mix or Lady-style are suitable for those who want to study several dance styles at the same time, but do not have the opportunity to attend them all. Of course, here it is impossible, so to speak, to “in depth” understand each style separately, but in general terms you will master the elements of Erotic Dance, Jazz, Reggaeton, House, Salsa and even R’n’B. You will learn a variety of movements, and no matter where and what clothes you find yourself in (be it a social corporate event, a prom or a “rapper party”), you will be able to surprise those around you.

Erotic Dance. Literally from the first lesson you will understand that you had no idea about your abilities! It turns out that you know how to move so erotically. And now it doesn't look as bad as before. You can come to Erotic Dance classes in heels without fear of breaking your leg. Here you will learn to move plastically, flexibly, gracefully, femininely and at the same time confidently and freely. Heels will help you develop coordination in your movements. Men won't be able to ignore you. The main thing is not to get too carried away!

There are also several varieties of Erotic Dance: Strip Dance - aimed at developing plasticity, flexibility and the ability to show all the attractiveness of the female body. Strip dance will reveal the secrets of a beautiful striptease. Another sub-style is Lap-dance - dancing on a chair (literally “on your knees”) is performed for one spectator. It can be simply a sensual dance with maximum contact with the viewer, or it can be performed very spectacularly with sharp swings of the legs or overturning a chair (naturally, in the absence of an audience). Poledance or the more familiar name pole dance (on a pole) is also born from the Erotic Dance style. Having seen at least once a professionally performed Poledance, few people remain indifferent. Many girls want to “be able to do the same.” But in fact, “pole dancing” is difficult to classify as dancing at all. It's more like rhythmic gymnastics performed to stimulating music. Real Poledance is a lot of work with sports (one might say, strength) training and acrobatic stretching. It's good if you have choreographic training. Poledance is suitable for those who are bored with exercise machines in gym, and simple fitness seems not effective enough. You can be sure: ALL muscle groups swing on the pole.

And if you still prefer something in between fitness and dancing, come to Stretching. In this direction, most of the time is spent on stretching itself - standing alone, sitting, lying down and in pairs. Stretching exercises will help bring your muscles into healthy tone - relieve tension and pain, correct posture, increase physical endurance, learn how to properly regulate breathing and lose a little weight. The choice of teacher is important here - he must be sufficiently professionally prepared. Health is no joke. And most importantly, stretching classes increase the level of dance training, after which any elements of different dances will be given to you with ease.

Modern, or more correctly dance in the modern style, is a truly modern dance, which has a centuries-old history and is undeservedly forgotten. This dance is completely different from others. You just have to come to a couple of classes and it will absorb you from head to toe. The purpose for which you go to dance is important here. If you are a busy girl and are constantly under mental and emotional stress, modernism will help you relieve stress and turn off your thoughts. Dance will allow you to forget about the bustle of the world around you, understand your body and the feeling of gravity, and completely relax to pleasant music. Modernism presupposes the absence of shoes and the loosest possible clothing. At the first lesson, you may not even have to dance - you will just begin to immerse yourself in the world of modernity and try to understand the mechanisms of driving forces in nature and human body. The movements of modernity, based on inertia, may seem strange and absurd at first, but gradually you will stop being afraid to reproduce them, you will feel inner freedom, lightness, and expand the boundaries of your own self, which interfere in everyday life. In Modern dance you relax not only externally, but also internally. Modernism in a sense combines dance and meditation. Technique plays an important role in Modern, as in other dances. Here she helps to express emotions that simply ask to be poured into a Modern dance composition. You will feel that you simply do not have enough dance elements to fly in space, and you will ask the teacher to reveal the secrets of modernity again and again.

Solo Latina. It’s rare that anyone can stand still after hearing the fiery rhythms of Latin American dances, be it samba, rumba, salsa, mamba, cha-cha-cha, bachata or jive. At least a smile on the face and positive thoughts unite all the “listeners.” On a sad autumn evening, when you want to sleep, your head hurts and cats are scratching at your soul, try to force yourself to go to at least one Latina class and you won’t notice how even the most deep-rooted depression will disappear. You will not only receive a lot of positive emotions, but also master a special body language, feel the freedom of an incendiary rhythm, grace, femininity and energy. You can come to class in a flirty skirt and low heels.

Belly dancing is perhaps one of those dances that has existed since ancient times. To date, he has managed to mix dance styles from different eastern countries. Fans of club dancing may at first find the movements characteristic of belly dancing unusual. In particular, in order to hold your hands, monitor your posture, be able to combine the movements of your shoulders and hips and, of course, shake your stomach (there are actually about ten types of shaking) require some physical and mental effort. But belly dancing was invented for a reason, since it has a beneficial effect on health female body. It models an ideal figure (a truly feminine one), trains breathing and the vestibular apparatus, pumps up the abdominal muscles, develops the diaphragm, shapes beautiful hips, and does not put strain on the joints. You can become a real woman and reveal yourself in Belly Dance classes. If your chosen one is worthy of you, and you want to inflame his sexual lust to the maximum - dance him a Belly Dance!

Types of dances

If we talk about types of dances, then we should mean their certain classification. However, in the world of incendiary and passionate movements, there is no single correct classification. In this article we want to provide you with information that will introduce you to the types of three main dance styles - club, ballroom and sports dancing.

Club

So, the most common club dances are mambo, merengue, salsa and hustle. Let's get to know them better!

The word itself "mambo" of Haitian origin, where it meant the name of a Voodoo priest, who for the villagers was a judge, doctor, fortune teller and spiritual guide. However, on the islands of Haiti there was no dance with this name. For the first time, mambo dancing appeared in Cuba, in the territories of Haitian settlements. In any case, the idea of ​​each new dance must be attributed to a specific person or group. Who then counts? "inventor" mambo? In 1943 in Havana, a man named Perez Prado performed the full and complete mambo dance for the first time at the Tropicana nightclub. Time passed, and the mambo became popular in New York among black dancers originally from Harlem, who performed these fiery and at the same time complex dance moves at their favorite hall, Park Plaza. Gradually, mambo became more popular and began to make a splash in many other clubs, starting in 1947.

The original dance that Perez Prado introduced us to was slightly modified, since it contained a lot of complex acrobatic elements that not all mambo dancers could handle. But a simplified version of it was presented in nightclubs, resort hotels and dance studios in New York and Miami, where the success of the mambo exceeded all expectations. They loved mambo dancers very much and even came up with a gentle name for them - “mambonics”. However, the passion for this dance is considered short-lived. Today, mambo is one of the most popular Latin American dances. And finally, I would like to note that teachers all over the world have come to the same opinion: mambo is a very complex club dance, both in its technique and musicality.

Another Latin American dance adopted in the USA is considered merengue. However, his origins are Dominican. Like mambo, merengue also went through its evolution, undergoing some changes. Modern merengue consists of two parts - introductions and interludes. Its melody is cheerful, somewhat syncopated, and is divided into two periods of sixteen bars each. Merengue dancers move in double meter, emphasizing the first beat with such a walking step, and we count two with our knees pressed to each other, performing an inward movement. Actually, this is the very highlight of the merengue dance.

The next type of dance is salsa. It is performed to the style of Latin American music. When translating a word "salsa" it doesn't mean anything even close to music, just a simple word "sauce", the preparation of which requires special Indian, African and Spanish ingredients. And someone named Chano Pozo, when in the twenties of the last century he, along with many other Cubans, emigrated to the United States, which is remembered in history as the first wave of emigrants from Cuba.

However, salsa reached the peak of its popularity in the seventies of the twentieth century - during the period of huge salsa festivals in the USA, Latin America and Africa. Such festivals attracted entire stadiums, and during the performances themselves, many CD recordings were made for all those who could not enjoy such a spectacle in person. From then on, salsa became a more commercial dance, which, of course, was embodied in New York. Thanks to this massive distribution of recorded CDs, as well as broadcast radio stations, we are learning about salsa dancing. However, the indigenous Latin American dance salsa, which is distinguished by its softness, is not popular in our country.

The last type of club dance that we talk about in our article is hustle, which translated from English - "crush". This couples dance, the main point of which is improvisation and leading.

There are quite a few different versions of the hustle, which are performed for three or six counts. The progenitor of all these versions is considered to be the Latin American hustle, which was given life by ordinary street dancers from among the Cubans and Gypsies living in the state of Florida, or rather in its southern part. And it happened something like this. At that time, on the West Coast, the most popular dances among Latino and Gypsy youth were salsa and Western swing. Using the techniques of these dances, street dancers tried to adapt their dance skills to disco rhythms, which, on the one hand, were completely different from either salsa or swing, but on the other hand, were terribly popular, especially in the early seventies. Thus, by performing three movements in four beats, the dancers managed to depict a unique precedent, which was called the hustle. However, due to the fact that this dance contained disco rhythms, at first it was called disco swing. The real Latin American hustle is danced to six counts.

Ballroom

Ballroom dancing is no less popular, especially in our time. Their turn has come.

Samba is a Brazilian dance performed in two-beat time. If you dig deeper, you can find out that the word “samba” is a kind of common prefix for many dances of Brazilian origin. As for samba dance specifically, there are two main types of it - village samba, distinctive feature which is typically acute syncopation, as well as urban samba, which is performed in a smoother rhythm. There is also samba carioca, which is essentially the same urban samba, but in a somewhat stylized role. The word is "carioca" is the name given to the people of Rio de Janeiro, where this distinctive style of urban samba was born. But for the fact that this dance was introduced into professional music, he must thank E. Villa-Lobos and Camargo Guarniero.

Dance with a funny name cha-cha-cha embodied the rhythmic structures of mambo and rumba. It was first performed in 1953 by the Cuban Orchestra America. The name of the dance was given by its clock pattern, the tempo of which is first slow, slow, then fast, fast, then slow again, and at the end there are three final rhythmic beats, which correspond to the syllables of cha-cha-cha.

However, as often happens, at first nothing new or unusual was seen in this dance, so on all the records with its recording it was called nothing more than just mamba, since it was based on the rhythmic structure of this dance. But over time, the rhythmic pattern of the cha-cha-cha grows, its dancers adapt to a slower rhythm, the time is doubled on the count of four and one, which eventually allows three steps to replace the light movements of the hips. And yet, five years pass when the initial rigidity in the dance was overcome, and three steps began to be performed with a typically Cuban sway in the hips. The charm of everyone's favorite cha-cha-cha lies in its naturalness and grace, and not in any intricacy of its movements.

Rumba is a modern Cuban dance, but its origin is African-American. The rumba is performed in four-beat time, but the rhythmic pattern changes in almost every measure. It should also be noted that rumba tactics are characterized by repetition and syncopation. The main theme of the rumba is eight bars, in which the rhythmic beginning predominates, while the melody and text are in the background. Rumba entered American pop music in the thirties of the last century.

One of the features of the Havana rumba, which is quite popular in various taverns and other similar establishments, is its performance to the accompaniment of ensembles that use all kinds of improvised means, for example, spoons, bottles, pots.

Another type of ballroom dancing is considered jive. In the USA it originated in the nineteenth century. However, the question of the origin of jive is still open: some believe that this dance was truly Negro, while others attribute it to the war dances of the Seminole Indians.

Throughout its long existence, jive has undergone many reincarnations. In the 1910s he moved from ragtime to swing. In the twenties of the same century, jive transformed into Lindy Hope. The thirties and forties of the last century are characterized by jegberg, the fifties by rock and boogie-boogie. It was only in the seventies of the twentieth century that the modern version of jive appeared. And, despite such significant and quite frequent changes, all this time jive remained a fashionable dance that did not leave anyone indifferent.

Some of the most powerful dance movements that significantly influenced the development of jive as a separate dance are rock and roll and juterbug. That is why you can sometimes come across such a name for jive as six-step rock and roll, which is characterized by a fast tempo that takes a lot of energy. Because of this feature, the jive is danced last in all dance competitions. At the same time, dancers must show all their endurance by performing this dance with maximum efficiency. Among all ballroom dances, jive is considered the fastest.

There is another ballroom dance with an unusual name - paso doble. Although there is nothing particularly unusual about this word, because it is translated in no other way than “double step.” People have always associated the Paso Doble with Spain, although there is a lot of French style in its movements and steps. Therefore, many experts are sure that the paso doble was originally a truly French dance. Very often, paso doble is compared to flamenco, which, however, confirms the kinship of these dances. Paso Doble has the same restrained, but at the same time very militant rhythm, which could not help but conquer Spain - a country with the oldest tradition of bullfighting. History knows many facts confirming that Spanish culture has always tried to associate itself with some kind of challenge, risk and even death.

Paso Doble, which is performed at dance competitions, is very complex in its technique. However, in Spain, France, as well as in Latin America, its publicly accessible form is widespread, which is danced in all kinds of clubs and dance centers.

Ballroom dancing also includes slow waltz, the basis for which was taken from old folk dances of Germany and Austria. Therefore, it is not surprising that the word “waltz” itself is of German origin, and translated means “to spin.” In addition, the closest predecessor of the modern slow waltz is considered to be German dance, although in terms of its technique it was an order of magnitude faster. The slow waltz is also related to the landlers - these are also slow waltzes that were popular back in the eighteenth century.

Studying ancient manuscripts, researchers found documents in which the waltz was mentioned back in 1770. And since then, the waltz has been condemned more than once for its ambiguity. For the most part, such condemnation came from the guardians of morality and from the dance masters themselves, although this might seem somewhat strange. Therefore, for a long time the slow waltz existed within the framework of country dance, known throughout England. However, later he still managed to defend his independence, and became the first ballroom dance, which was popular in Vienna, Paris and New York.

Another type of waltz is the famous Viennese waltz. But some background needs to be told here. There is no arguing that the waltz as a dance was a huge success and also created an incredible sensation in the courts of Europe at that time. And yet, at the beginning of the nineteenth century, the waltz was not officially accepted; it continued to be treated with some caution, so at all kinds of points in Vienna it was given no more than ten minutes. And all for one simple reason: hugging the man and woman who performed this dance was considered somewhat inappropriate. However, the waltz turned out to be much stronger than all these ridiculous prejudices in our time. Therefore, in 1815, when Napoleon was defeated, a congress of the victorious allies was organized in Vienna, at the ball of which all the dancers surrendered to the full embrace of this enchanting, brilliant, magical dance without the slightest doubt about its sophistication. At the same time, the waltz acquires a specific feature in the form of an accented rhythm, making this dance even more romantic and elegant. Thus the Viennese waltz was born.

Sports

One of the most popular sports dances of its time is considered disco. These dances appeared in the 70s of the last century and immediately won favor among young people due to their simplicity, ease of learning and amazing cheerfulness. The wild popularity of disco dancing was also contributed to by the film “Saturday Night Fever” released at that time, as well as the catchy tune “Dance Hustle”. The unspoken symbols of disco were flashing lights, loudly pulsating rhythm, mirrored walls, high fashion and much, much more, which is why the dance became one of the most desirable in the whole world.

But the simplest phrase became the slogan for disco dancing - "Just move your body" (“Just move your body”), which essentially explains their meaning: the dance is very simple and at the same time quite erotic. Everyone could dance disco, because it did not require special skills, as, for example, in rock and roll, swing or twist. All this was in the past - the time has come for disco dancing. All you had to do was feel the rhythm - and you were the star of the dance floor.

And if disco is the most popular sports dance of past decades, today hip-hop is at the peak of its popularity. Today in every city you can find dozens of dance schools that teach this type of dance. But are people who decided to learn how to dance hip-hop interested in where this trend in sports dancing came from?

And everything is very simple: dance hip-hop takes its origins from African jazz, the first performers of which were African Americans. The word "jazz" is translated as "improvisation". Of course, African jazz still exists today, but it is viewed more as an ethnic dance. But hip-hop is more of a street dance style, which means it is a dance of street improvisation. In addition, we should not forget that hip-hop is not just a type of sports dance, it is something much more - it is a whole lifestyle, clothing style and behavior style.

Recently, the style has also gained wide popularity R&B, which originated in the black neighborhoods of Latin America. However, many researchers are in no hurry to distinguish this style as a separate dance, since they see it rather as a mixture of many other styles, such as hip-hop, funk, locking and pop.

As you can see, there are dances for every taste. Therefore, if you decide to learn one of their types, without a doubt you will find the one that is most suitable for you.

Modern dances have hundreds of styles, elements of which were created both in the present and in the past. The current trends have retained the aesthetic appeal of the movements, but at the same time they have become faster. They, like the rest of art, reflect the realities of our time and fashion trends.

What is modern dance?

This section includes different types, as well as variations of this art. Among the new directions, the following names of modern dances stand out:

contemporary;

folk;

other more youthful hip-hop dances and so on.

Modern dance choreography is usually much more complex. It includes all existing elements and pas. In order to create new dance, you have to connect the old ones piece by piece.

Jazz dance

It is rightfully considered one of the very first among other modern variations. The history of this dance began at the very end of the 19th - beginning of the 20th century in the USA. Since then, he has successfully conquered all continents of the world.

In turn, completely new types of modern dances emerged from it. They differ not only in music and movements, but also in the concept itself.

Jazz movements:

jazz classics;

• freestyle;

All directions are similar to each other in only one way - they retain the chic of the roaring twenties. They are full of enthusiasm and cheerful music. In all these dances there is something from the Great Gatsby, from the luxury with which the aristocrats of that time surrounded themselves, and the passion with which the poor lived in the American ghettos.

Soul is considered one of the youngest on the list. A varied number of fast movements are performed per beat.

But flash jazz is more reminiscent of such types of modern dance as ballet.

Thanks to him, many different fashion trends have appeared in the world. As a rule, they quickly became obsolete and were characterized by mass interest.

Ballroom dancing

Modern ballroom dance is no longer the same dance that was previously performed during formal receptions. As a contemporary art form, it combines some elements of ancient, traditional folk, ephemera and jazz.

During competitions, ballroom dancers usually show their skills in both European and Latin American styles of dance, which also belong to the ballroom type.

Names of modern dances in Latin American style:

• paso doble;

In European:

foxtrot;

Viennese waltz;

slow waltz;

quickstep;

All these directions are performed in pairs. Dancers wear special costumes. All their movements are coordinated and identical to the movements of their partner.

These turns are performed in a room specially designated for them. Traditional European ballroom dances are performed to classical music.

Modern and contemporary

The dance appeared on the basis of the classical one. Nevertheless, modernity seemed to rebel against any rules that exist in the classics. Each movement in this direction carries a certain philosophical meaning.

Dancers don't just have to hit the main beat. They search for several rhythms at once in one melody and try to adapt to them.

The names of modern dances - modern and contemporary - are often classified in the same area. Both of these types may be involved in modern theatrical productions, where they tell a whole story.

This type of dance combines many different directions. In it, the performer seeks to express his own emotions and convey his state. Contemporary is most often associated with classical ballet, from which the dance takes its origins.

Folk dances

Despite the fact that folk dances are difficult to classify as modern, they continue to remain just as popular and in demand. This direction supports old traditions, introducing elements of native culture into art.

Russian modern dances contain both devotion to the history and past of their people, and completely new dance movements. They are popular not only among the older generation, but also among young people. Folk dances are performed to the accompaniment of appropriate music produced using ethnic instruments. The performers wear traditional outfits.

At the same time, modern pop dances can include elements of folk, jazz, sports, and ballroom.

Break

It first appeared in America in the twentieth century. It is divided into such types of modern dances as lower and upper. During the low break, the performer can rotate on his head, jump on his hands, and spin his legs in a one-arm stand.

The top break is usually characterized by plastic movements. This dance is performed to a certain type of music. There is a subculture in which this type of art develops.

Belly dance

It can be attributed to folk dances to a certain degree. Raks Sharqi, or belly dance, was born in Muslim countries. It was performed in eastern harems to delight the gaze of the ruler. Modern Muslim women dance it in front of their husbands.

Of course, dancing is best for lovers. But, nevertheless, it helps to develop grace, eliminates excess weight, and helps eliminate some female diseases. Modern dances for children can also include it. Little girls are more flexible, and certain movements will go well with youth and enthusiasm. Belly dancing has several national trends. They are all good for health.

Modern dances for children

Children need to be taught the art of choreography from a very early age. From the age of two or three, private dance schools enroll their first students. There they are introduced to basic movements for the first time and work on plasticity. Children learn easily. In addition, they can remember the main differences between different styles and movements that are typical for ballroom or jazz dancing.

In game versions, children are taught classic stances, hand position, and head rotation.

Teachers allow you to create your own movements, thus developing the child’s imagination.

Modern dances for children form basic knowledge about this art, introduce them to history, and teach them to perceive music.

Of all the existing options, they try to choose ballroom ones. They combine more classic movements and a variety of styles.

The music to which all types of modern dances are performed can be selected to suit the tastes of children and modern fashion.

Another effect of these classes is the feeling of one’s own Self, one’s beauty. The child sees that he is beginning to cope with the assigned tasks, that he looks beautiful while performing.

Dancing breaks down psychological barriers. They liberate a person, make him more self-confident, and therefore open to others.

Modern dances perform the following functions:

children become more cheerful and confident in their abilities;

posture is corrected;

gait becomes better;

fine motor skills and dexterity improve;

coordination of movements is improved;

endurance increases;

perseverance appears in achieving the goal set for oneself;

Problems with his own inferiority disappear, the child understands that he is better than he thought about himself.

Dance is body language. All movements in dance have their own meaning, it is not just a set of movements, it is a way to say something to the people around you. Nowadays, there are a huge number of dance styles.

Types of dance styles

Ballet, ballroom, historical, modern, erotic, Latin American dances, hustle, swing... The variety is amazing.

• Ballet is a theatrical performance where the character of the character, his feelings, emotions and thoughts are expressed by the artists using dance moves, plasticity, gestures and facial expressions. There are such types of ballet: classical, romantic and modern.
• Ballroom dancing includes two types of programs: standard (Viennese waltz, tango, slow foxtrot, slow waltz, quickstep) and Latin (cha-cha-cha, samba, paso doble, rumba, jive). They are performed in pairs by a man and a woman. Ballroom dancing is popular all over the world.
• Historical dances. This direction includes dances of past centuries, which are performed to this day and came to us from the Renaissance (allemande, contradanse, pavane), Baroque (minuet) and from the 19th century (mazurka, polonaise, quadrille).
• People's direction. Each nationality has its own dances, which reflect the character, traditions and customs of the people. Folk dances include: hopak, krakowiak, polka, lezginka, gypsy, round dance, czardash, trepak and many others.
• Swing is a movement that was born at the beginning of the 20th century based on African-American dance traditions. Almost all dances of this style involve a jazz syncopated rhythm. Types of swing: Charleston, blues, jive, rock and roll, boogie-woogie and that's not all.
• Hustle is a couples dance performed to disco music. Learning to dance the hustle is very simple, anyone can perform it, it is based on improvisation. Varieties of hustle: sports, freestyle, show hustle, jack-n-jill, double-hustle, ladies-hustle.
• Erotic dances: belly dance, striptease. Striptease is a dance that involves gradually exposing the dancer's body. Most often, this dance is performed using a pylon (pole).

Modern styles

Some people prefer only the newest and most modern types of dance styles. The list of the most relevant styles among young people today looks like this:

• electrodance;
• house;
• trance;
• tectonics;
• stripdance;
• Go go;
• jumpstyle;
• shuffle;
• hip-hop;
• brakedance
• popping;
• jazz;
• modern;
• postmodern;
• contemporary

Club dancing

Dance styles: electrodance, house, jumpstyle, R&B, trance and tectonic - these are directions for those who like to rock at discos and club parties.

Electrodance and trance dance to electronic music. The movements are energetic and expressive, performed at high speed and with large amplitude.

Tectonic is a combination of elements of electrodance, popping, techno and hip-hop, that is, jumping and active hand movements. The dance is very energetic, suitable only for young people, but it is quite monotonous and monotonous.

Such types of dance styles as electrodance, trance, R&B, tectonics are not too difficult to master; anyone can learn to dance them.

Street dance

Street dance styles include hip-hop, breakdancing, popping, and locking.

Hip-hop is not just a dance, it is a youth subculture that has its own style not only in music and dancing, but also in the way of dressing, as well as the use of slang and its own philosophy. Hip-hop combines completely different dance techniques. It looks very simple, but in fact, to learn how to dance hip-hop, you will need hard training. Good physical fitness and endurance are required, as the load falls on all muscle groups.

Breakdancing is the ideal dance for boys, young men and young men. This is not only a dance, it is a sport; in addition to dance movements, there are elements of acrobatics and artistic gymnastics. Breakdancing classes develop strength, endurance, self-confidence, flexibility and form a beautiful muscular body.

Contemporary ballet

The types of dance styles based on which are usually called modern ballet are modern, jazz-modern, post-modern and contemporary. In essence, this is a modern interpretation of classical ballet, only with less stringent standards. Modern style requires dancers to have excellent physical shape, endurance and good stretching. Contemporary, on the contrary, does not impose strict requirements; you can start practicing this type of dance at any age; a slim figure, physical fitness and flexibility are not important. Contemporary dances are performed barefoot. This dance is based on the martial arts of the East. Contemporary music is performed solo, duet, in pairs or in a group. The main thing in this is self-expression.

Latin American dances

Types of dance styles of Latin American origin: bachata, Argentine tango, merengue, mambo, salsa, lambada, flamenco, capoeira, bolero.

Bachata is one of the most popular Latin American dances today, as is capoeira. Bachata is a couple dance. Capoeira is martial arts Brazil, which combines acrobatics, kicks and is performed to musical accompaniment. Among Latin American dances, there are types of dance styles where they stomp their feet and clap their hands, for example, the famous flamenco. This dance is performed with a guitar and percussion, and sometimes the dancers use castanets.

Modern dances for girls

The most popular types of dance styles for girls today: strip dance, go-go, belly dance, pole dance.

Belly dancing is suitable for girls and women of any age and any size. Oriental dance classes will help you always be beautiful, slim and desirable, your figure will become more feminine, your movements will be graceful, and the habit of slouching will disappear. Belly dancing is very beneficial for women's health.

Strip plastic is a direction for girls without complexes or for those who want to get rid of them. Strip plastic classes are the key to a beautiful figure. This type of dance will allow you to gain self-confidence, relax, and become irresistible in the eyes of your beloved man.

Go-go is a club dance that will allow every girl to become a star on the dance floor; it is close to strip dance, but differs from it in that its movements are more aggressive and fast. This type of dance is performed not only by disco lovers, but also by professional dancers in clubs. The clothes of professional go-go dancers are shorts, a bodice and stilettos. To practice go-go professionally, you need to have an ideal figure.

Pole dance (pole) - which is based on a combination of dance elements with gymnastics and acrobatics. One of the most complex species dance art, to master which you need to be in good physical shape and training. Pole dancing competitions are held.

For children

The types of dance styles for children are not much different from those offered for adults. These are hip-hop, go-go, belly dance, tectonics, break dancing, ballroom ballet, jazz, modern, world dances and so on. Dancing classes are very useful for children; they will help improve posture, promote physical development and form a beautiful figure. Children learn things much faster than adults, they have more energy and a more flexible body.

IN modern world There are various types of dance styles. The pictures posted in this article show some of them. Gradually, dance styles develop, improve, and new ones emerge on their basis, as each generation strives to express itself, its thoughts and feelings in its own way. Nowadays, people of all ages, from children to retirees, can find a dance style that suits them.