Welcome to the world of dance! Whether you’re looking to get fit, meet new people, or simply have fun, dance offers something for everyone. But with so many styles to choose from, where do you start? This beginner’s guide will walk you through some popular dance styles, helping you find the perfect fit for your interests and goals.
1. Ballet
What It Is: Ballet is a classical dance form that has been the foundation for many other dance styles. Known for its grace, precision, and strong technique, ballet involves a lot of discipline and control.
Who It’s For: Ballet is great for those who appreciate structure and elegance. It’s also ideal if you want to develop strong posture, flexibility, and balance.
What to Expect: In a beginner’s ballet class, you’ll start with basic positions and movements at the barre before moving to the center of the room. Don’t worry if you’re not graceful at first—ballet takes time and practice.
2. Hip-Hop
What It Is: Hip-hop is an energetic and expressive dance style that originated in urban street culture. It’s known for its strong rhythms, fast movements, and improvisational elements.
Who It’s For: If you enjoy upbeat music and want a dance style that’s both fun and physically challenging, hip-hop might be for you. It’s also great for those who love creativity and self-expression.
What to Expect: In a beginner’s hip-hop class, you’ll learn basic moves and routines set to contemporary music. Classes are high-energy, so be ready to move and have fun!
3. Jazz
What It Is: Jazz dance is a lively, rhythmic dance style that combines elements of ballet, modern, and other dance forms. It’s often performed to upbeat music and is characterized by its expressive and dynamic movements.
Who It’s For: Jazz is perfect for those who enjoy energetic music and want to explore a dance style that’s both technical and fun. It’s also great for improving coordination and rhythm.
What to Expect: Beginner jazz classes typically start with a warm-up, followed by learning basic steps and short routines. The emphasis is on fluidity, style, and rhythm.
4. Contemporary
What It Is: Contemporary dance is a modern dance style that blends elements of various genres, including ballet, jazz, and modern dance. It’s known for its expressive nature and often tells a story or conveys emotion through movement.
Who It’s For: If you’re drawn to dance as a form of emotional expression and storytelling, contemporary is a great choice. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy fluid, flowing movements.
What to Expect: In a beginner’s contemporary class, you’ll explore a range of movements and techniques. The focus is on expression, connection with the music, and the use of space.
5. Tap
What It Is: Tap dance is a unique dance style where the dancer’s feet create rhythmic patterns and sounds, almost like a musical instrument. It’s all about timing, rhythm, and making music with your feet.
Who It’s For: Tap is great for those who love rhythm and want to improve their musicality. It’s also a fantastic way to develop coordination and timing.
What to Expect: In a beginner tap class, you’ll start with basic steps and gradually build up to more complex rhythms and patterns. Tap shoes are essential, as they create the distinctive sounds.
6. Acro Dance
What It Is: Acro dance is a unique style that combines classical dance techniques with acrobatic elements. It’s known for its athleticism, flexibility, and the seamless blending of dance and acrobatics.
Who It’s For: Acro dance is perfect for those who enjoy gymnastics or are looking to challenge themselves physically. It’s also great for dancers who want to improve their strength, flexibility, and control.
What to Expect: In a beginner’s acro dance class, you’ll start with basic acrobatic moves like rolls, cartwheels, and handstands, gradually integrating them into dance routines. Safety and proper technique are emphasized to prevent injuries.
7. Musical Theatre
What It Is: Musical theatre dance combines elements of jazz, ballet, and modern dance with theatrical performance. It’s all about telling a story through dance, often in a way that’s larger-than-life and full of character.
Who It’s For: If you love the drama of the stage, enjoy acting, and want to express yourself through dance, musical theatre is for you. It’s also ideal for those interested in performing in musicals or stage productions.
What to Expect: In a beginner’s musical theatre dance class, you’ll learn choreography that tells a story or supports a narrative, often from popular musicals. The focus is on character, expression, and embodying the style of the show.
Finding Your Dance Style
Choosing a dance style is a personal decision that depends on your interests, goals, and personality. Don’t be afraid to try out a few different styles before settling on the one that feels right for you. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and have fun!
Ready to Get Started?
At Grand River Academy of Dance, we offer a wide range of beginner classes in all these styles and more. Our experienced instructors are here to guide you every step of the way, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your dance repertoire.
Sign up for your first class today and take the first step in your dance journey!