Jazz Walks & Runs
Whether you are walking or running, you walk with style in color guard, jazz style.
You may walk forwards, backwards, sideways, so practice in all directions.
Your music may have a fast or slow tempo, so practice with a similar BPM as your show music!
Jazz Walks
In a traditional jazz walk you move in a forward direction, as you go across the floor.
Jazz Walk Audio Prompt
Step with your left on odd counts.
Step with your right on even counts.
Step toe down first, heel down last.
Keep your feet turned out at all times.
Slide your foot through 1st position, turned out, each step.
Jazz Walk Audio Prompt 73 BPM
Try jazz walks at different tempos!
Try jazz walks with attitude!
Your music is always changing so should the quickness or slowness of your jazz walks as you keep the tempo.
This audio prompt is slower at 73 BPM
BPM = Beats Per Minute
Side Jazz Walks
Using all the elements of a jazz walk, but you walk sideways while your shoulders and torso still face the audience.
You can cross over just in front, for switch it from front to back!
Jazz Runs
Jazz Runs Audio Prompt
Step with your left on odd counts.
Step with your right on even counts.
Step toe down first, heel down last.
Keep your feet turned out at all times.
Slide your foot through 1st position turned out each step.
You are in demi plié at all times.
Acting & Emotion with Jazz Walks
Since this is a relatively easy exercise, take the opportunity to practice your acting and emotions while you jazz walk. Portraying different feelings while you perform puts you at a higher level.
Feel the mood of the music and portray the emotion of the song on your face and body language.
Listen for the different tempos. You may be surprised that songs you expect to be quick are actually slow!
Happy
Sad
Angry
Confident
Scared
Where you are feeling scared.
Scary
Where you are the villain, the dark and scary person.