① Purpose of the Course:
This course is designed to introduce students to the various elements of Jazz Dance – the history, terminology, technique, core dance/movement/performance concepts, and prominent dance figures and styles – and for students to experience all of these elements through dancing, observation, research, discussion, and choreography. The teaching goal is to increase student’s knowledge and understanding of the various elements as well as support the student in developing his/her own artistry in the realm of Jazz dance.
② Weekly Schedule of Classes for Semester
Week 1
Introduction to Jazz Dance/Foundational Jazz
Learn Center work, Across the floor, and creation of combinations
Week 2
Foundational Jazz Technique and Vocabulary
Week 3
Foundational Jazz Technique and Vocabulary
Week 4
Foundational Jazz Technique and Vocabulary
Week 5
Musical Theatre Jazz Dance in the 20’s
Week 6
Musical Theatre Jazz Dance in the 60’s
Week 7
Musical Theatre Jazz Dance in the 70’s
Week 8
Review for Midterms/Midterms
Week 9
Spring Break
Week 10
Introduction to Contemporary Lyrical Jazz
Week 11
Introduction to Contemporary Lyrical Jazz
Week 12
Jazz Funk
Week 13
Jazz Funk
Week 14
Choreography for finals
Week 15
Choreography for finals/Presentations
③ Course Book:
Jazz Dance: A History of Roots and Branches by Lindsay Guarino and Wendy Oliver
④ Criteria for Evaluation:
Attendance: Students are expected to attend class regularly. Student will be expected to arrive prepared (in proper attire and footwear) and ready to begin at the scheduled start time of class. Student should allow time to change for class and be in the studio with cell phone off and all other items away, ready to begin. Chronic lateness and/or missed classes will negatively impact this portion of the student’s grade and may affect overall grading. Two unexcused absences will result in a full grade drop.
Active Participation: Student participation is a key component to the learning and evaluation process. Student is expected to be punctual and will receive an overall grade on the quality of their participation in class. A positive, open-minded attitude is also imperative to foster a growing dance environment.
Midterm: Students will co-choreograph a dance piece demonstrating movement language and creativity while using the technique fundamentals, concepts, and vocabulary covered during the course of the first half of the semester. If a student wishes to do this performance as a solo piece, they can do so but to let the professor know before groups are assigned.
Final Dance Demo: Students will choreograph their own movement piece demonstrating self-creativity in any style of dance. This can be done solo or as a duet. The final dance demo will be presented as an in-class performance.
Attendance/Active Participation: 70%
Mid-term 15%
Final 15%