LESSON 2: FOUNDATION OF DANCE

At the end of the lesson, the student will be able to:

a. Define dance and understand its concept;

b. Identify the basic elements of dance;

c. Recognize where this elements is used in terms of dance compositions;

d. Demonstrate some of the dance elements.

Dance, the movement of the body in a rhythmic way, usually to music and within a given space, for the purpose of expressing an idea or emotion, releasing energy, or simply taking delight in the movement itself.

Dance is a powerful impulse, but the art of dance is that impulse channeled by skillful performers into something that becomes intensely expressive and that may delight spectators who feel no wish to dance themselves. These two concepts of the art of dance—dance as a powerful impulse and dance as a skillfully choreographed art practiced largely by a professional few—are the two most important connecting ideas running through any consideration of the subject. In dance, the connection between the two concepts is stronger than in some other arts, and neither can exist without the other. 

DANCE - is an activity that combines movement and music.

DANCING - it is the word used to describe the action done in response to music.

The Elements of Dance

- are the foundational concepts and vocabulary that help students develop movement skills and understand dance as an artistic practice.

The acronym BASTE helps you remember the elements:

B ody

A ction

S pace

T ime

E nergy

This framework is a way to discuss any kind of movement. While different dance styles call for specialized skills and stylization choices, the underlying elements of dance are visible in all dance experiences.