What Choreographers Love and Hate About Their Dance Students

Choreographers play a crucial role in shaping dance performances, creating movements that bring artistic visions to life. Their experience is deeply influenced by the students they work with, and their feelings toward these students can vary greatly. Understanding what choreographers appreciate and find challenging about their students offers valuable insight into the dance classroom dynamics. This exploration highlights the behaviors and qualities that choreographers cherish, as well as the common issues that can frustrate them, ultimately enhancing the learning experience for both parties.

Who is choreographer? A choreographer is a creative professional who designs and arranges dance routines and movements for performances. Their role encompasses much more than just creating sequences of steps; it involves conceptualizing how movement can convey emotion, tell a story, and integrate seamlessly with music, theme, or narrative elements.
Here’s a more detailed look at what a choreographer does:
Creating Dance Routines
Conceptualization: The choreographer starts by developing the overall concept or theme of the dance piece. This involves imagining how the movements will express the music, the story, or the intended emotions.
Movement Design: They design intricate sequences of steps and patterns, ensuring that the choreography fits the music and complements the style of dance. This can involve creating original movements or adapting existing ones.
Integration: Choreographers also consider how their work integrates with other elements of a performance, such as staging, lighting, and costumes. They ensure that the dance routine enhances the overall production.
Teaching and Rehearsing
Instruction: Choreographers teach the dance routines to performers. This involves demonstrating movements, explaining techniques, and providing feedback to help dancers achieve the desired execution.
Rehearsal Leadership: During rehearsals, choreographers refine the choreography, making adjustments based on how it looks and feels during practice. They work with dancers to perfect their timing, precision, and expression.
Motivation and Support: They also play a crucial role in motivating dancers, helping them overcome challenges, and encouraging them to bring their personal flair and creativity to the performance.
Collaboration
Teamwork: Choreographers often collaborate with other creative professionals, such as composers, directors, and costume designers, to ensure that all elements of the performance work harmoniously together. This collaboration helps to create a cohesive and impactful final product.
Feedback Integration: They also work closely with dancers, taking their input into account and making adjustments to the choreography based on the performers’ strengths and feedback.
Inspiration and Artistic Vision
Emotional Expression: Choreographers strive to infuse their routines with emotional depth and artistic vision. They aim to evoke specific feelings or reactions from the audience through their choreography.
Innovation: They are constantly exploring new ideas and techniques, pushing the boundaries of dance to create innovative and engaging performances.
Performance and Presentation
Final Adjustments: Leading up to the performance, choreographers make final adjustments to ensure that the routine is polished and ready. They oversee the final rehearsals and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Performance Monitoring: During performances, choreographers may observe the execution of their routines to ensure that the dance is performed as intended and to make notes for future improvements.
Overall, choreographers play a vital role in the world of dance. They translate artistic ideas into physical movement, shape the creative vision of performances, and contribute significantly to the success of dance productions. Their work involves a blend of creativity, technical skill, and leadership, making them essential to the dance industry.

CHOREOGRAPHER PET PEEVES

When The Class Is Collectively Unresponsive

It can become quite uncomfortable when the choreographer poses a question, such as “Should we try the music?” or “Can I move on?” and is met with a complete lack of response—”………..cricket…… /gust of wind/ …… ::blank stares::…….”

Remember, a class is meant to be interactive!

It’s not just a one-way street where the instructor lectures and the students listen passively. It’s a dynamic exchange of energy and ideas between the instructor and the students.

When students remain silent and unresponsive, it can leave the instructor feeling uncertain and unsure of how to proceed, making it difficult for them to effectively support and guide the class.

To ensure that both the instructor and the students get the most out of the experience, communication is key.

When you have the opportunity to engage, even if it’s just a simple “Yeah!” or “One more time!” or a nod and eye contact if you’re not comfortable speaking, it makes a significant difference.

STUDENTS! The next time the choreographer asks a question, don’t hesitate—ANSWER!

Students Who Are Downright Disruptive Or Rude

And then there are the students who are excessively outspoken—so much so that their behavior becomes a significant disruption to the class.

We’re talking about students who arrive late and noisily, try to avoid paying, talk over the choreographer, perform alternative choreography or engage in random activities at inappropriate times, eat during class (seriously?), or laugh loudly with friends in a corner.

When you’re disruptive and distracting, you’re undermining:

The choreographer, who is there to guide and teach.
The entire class, which relies on a focused and respectful environment.
The integrity of the organization hosting the class or workshop.
The entity you represent—be it a team, a project, or even yourself.

Your behavior impacts everyone and reflects poorly on you as a dancer and as a participant. The desire to be proud of yourself should be a strong incentive to avoid actions that diminish the quality of the class and hinder both your own and others’ growth.

STUDENTS! While it’s important to have fun, class should be approached with seriousness and respect.

Just as it would be rude to sit in a lecture hall and snooze through a professor’s lecture, it’s equally disrespectful to disrupt a dance class. Remember, the choreographer’s job is to ensure you learn and improve. You’re there because you want to be, so make the most of it and contribute positively!

Recording And Posting Footage When Explicitly Requested NOT To

Many of us like to document our progress by recording our performances during class, and sharing these clips—often on Instagram—has become a popular way to showcase our growth.

In fact, many choreographers appreciate this gesture! It can be seen as a form of support and affirmation. It’s like saying, “Hey, your choreography was so impressive that I want to share it with my followers.” It feels like a mutual brag, celebrating both the choreographer’s talent and your own skills.

Friends might also post clips of each other’s classes as a show of support, similar to how you might post about your significant other as your #MCM. It’s a way of saying, “Check out my friend’s amazing work and look how well I can perform it. They’re incredibly talented, and I’m proud to show it off!”

However, it is absolutely crucial to understand that sharing this footage without permission is not acceptable.

If a choreographer explicitly requests that you do not share their work, you must respect that request. They may have specific plans for the footage—such as using it for their team’s set or creating a video later on—or they might simply want you to experience the class without the pressure of documentation. Sometimes, they might even prefer to preserve the sanctity of the live class experience, which was more common before the era of constant sharing and oversharing.

Whatever their reason, if the choreographer asks you not to share their work, you must comply. Posting on YouTube, Instagram, or even a temporary Snapchat story can be considered rude and disrespectful if the choreographer has made it clear that the footage is for class use only.

STUDENTS! While sharing can be a form of caring, it’s important to remember that just because you’ve learned the choreography doesn’t mean you have the right to share it publicly. The work always belongs to the artist, and it’s crucial to respect their wishes and avoid any potential issues of plagiarism or overstepping boundaries.

THINGS CHOREOGRAPHERS LOVE

When You Ask Legitimate Questions

As emphasized earlier, effective communication is key to maximizing your experience in class.

If you find yourself struggling with a specific aspect of the choreography, don’t hesitate to ask! Here’s why:

You Might Not Be Alone: Chances are, someone else might have the same question but is too shy to ask. Your question could benefit everyone in the class.
Extra Review: Even if no one else has the same question, your inquiry provides additional review and reinforcement of the material for all students.
Guidance for the Choreographer: Your question helps the choreographer understand what needs further clarification or review, making their teaching more effective.
Personal Learning: Asking questions is essential for your own understanding and improvement.

If your question pertains to something straightforward—like whether to use your right or left foot—sometimes just observing the choreographer closely can provide the answer.

However, relying on classmates for answers repeatedly can be problematic. It’s perfectly fine to ask a quick clarification, such as “Is it like this?” or “Was that on the snare?” But continually seeking answers from other dancers, rather than asking the choreographer or observing them, can be disruptive. It might also irritate both your fellow students and the choreographer, especially if they see you asking someone else when you should be addressing your questions directly.

STUDENTS! Don’t be afraid to ask questions when necessary and appropriate. When teachers say, “If you have any questions, ask!” they genuinely mean it.

Energy & Cheering For Others

The overall vibe of a class is incredibly important. Both the choreographer and the students should maintain a positive and growth-oriented mindset throughout the session.

Remember, the energy of the class is not necessarily tied to the mood of the choreography. Even if the piece is set to a somber or melancholic song, the class can still be filled with positive energy focused on learning and improvement.

This positive energy is evident from the moment you step into the studio. It’s visible when dancers are open to meeting new people, introducing themselves, and expressing happiness at seeing familiar faces.

It continues to shine through as the class begins and everyone shows excitement to start dancing. It’s palpable when the choreographer poses a question and receives enthusiastic responses from the class.

The energy is also apparent during group work, where you hear cheers and encouragement for fellow dancers. It’s felt when you take the floor to perform and sense the support from those around you.

And it’s most noticeable when you look back on the class and remember how enjoyable it was. Regardless of any struggles or mistakes, or even how impressive the choreography was, the overall experience felt good.

The combined energy of you, the choreographer, and your fellow dancers truly shapes the class experience.

STUDENTS! The choreographer wants you to have a great experience, so embrace the energy they bring to the class. Energy is contagious, whether positive or negative, so aim to keep it positive. Spread the love, stay engaged, and keep the spirit of the class vibrant and enjoyable.

What is choreography? Choreography is the art and practice of designing and arranging dance movements and sequences. It involves creating structured patterns of movement that are performed by dancers. Choreography can be applied to a wide range of dance styles and performances, from solo acts to large group routines, and it can be used in various settings, including theatrical productions, music videos, competitions, and social dances.
Key Aspects of Choreography
1. Creative Process
Concept Development: Choreography often begins with a concept or theme that guides the movement creation. This could be inspired by music, a story, an emotion, or a particular style of dance.
Movement Composition: Choreographers design movements and sequences that fit the chosen concept. This involves creating steps, patterns, and transitions that are visually appealing and effective in conveying the intended message.
2. Structure and Form
Routine Design: Choreographers arrange movements into routines or sequences, ensuring that there is a coherent structure. This might include verses, choruses, or sections that follow a particular order.
Spatial Arrangement: The use of space is crucial in choreography. Choreographers plan how dancers will move through the performance area, incorporating formations, patterns, and spatial relationships.
3. Musicality
Timing and Rhythm: Choreography is often closely aligned with the music. Choreographers work on timing, rhythm, and syncopation to ensure that the dance complements the musical score.
Mood and Expression: The movements may reflect the mood or emotion conveyed by the music, enhancing the overall impact of the performance.
4. Technique and Style
Movement Quality: Different styles of dance, such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, or contemporary, have unique techniques and movement qualities. Choreographers incorporate these styles into their routines, paying attention to the technical aspects of each style.
Personal Expression: Choreographers may include their own personal style or signature moves, adding originality and flair to the choreography.
5. Rehearsal and Refinement
Teaching: Once the choreography is created, it is taught to dancers. This involves demonstrating the movements, providing instructions, and ensuring that dancers understand and can perform the routine as intended.
Rehearsal: Choreographers lead rehearsals to practice and perfect the routine. They make adjustments based on how the dance looks and feels during practice, refining movements and transitions.
6. Performance and Presentation
Staging: Choreographers consider how the routine will be staged and presented, including the use of props, costumes, and lighting. They ensure that the choreography integrates well with these elements.
Execution: During performances, the choreography is executed by the dancers according to the designed routine. The choreographer may observe the performance to ensure it meets their vision and make notes for future improvements.
Applications of Choreography
Theatrical Productions: In musicals, ballets, and other stage performances, choreography enhances the storytelling and visual appeal.
Music Videos: Choreography in music videos helps to visually represent the song and engage the audience.
Competitions: Dance competitions feature choreographed routines that are judged based on creativity, technique, and execution.
Social and Recreational Dance: Choreography is used in social dance settings, such as dance classes and social events, to provide structure and organization to group dances.
In summary, choreography is a multifaceted art form that combines creativity, technique, and expression to craft dance routines that entertain, inspire, and communicate ideas.

When Students Make The Piece Their Own; “Moments”

Many choreographed pieces feature “moments” where you’re encouraged to infuse your own personality and style into the dance. These moments might include opportunities to freestyle during the last 8 counts or to interpret the choreography in your own way.

Seeing Determination Over Struggle

Not everyone will master the choreography perfectly, but every dancer has the opportunity to give it their best shot.

Even if someone is struggling to grasp the moves, witnessing their perseverance and determination is incredibly valuable. It signals to the choreographer that their efforts to challenge and motivate their students are making an impact.

Teaching choreography is just one aspect of a choreographer’s role. Equally important is guiding you to a mental space where you believe that it’s possible and worthwhile to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.

STUDENTS! It’s easy to feel discouraged when you’re struggling, but it’s even more disheartening for both you and the choreographer if you give up or settle for less. Remember, the class is not about achieving perfection but about learning, growing, and pushing your boundaries.

Embrace the learning process! Allow yourself to be uncomfortable, to stretch beyond your current abilities, and to continually strive for improvement. Always, always, always keep trying, no matter how challenging it may seem.

Summary

In the realm of dance, the relationship between choreographers and their students is both intricate and essential. Choreographers thrive on the enthusiasm, dedication, and creativity that students bring to their classes, which fuels their own passion and innovation. However, challenges arise when students exhibit behaviors that disrupt the learning process or fail to engage fully with the material. By recognizing and addressing these dynamics, both choreographers and students can foster a more harmonious and productive environment. Understanding what choreographers love and hate about their students helps to bridge gaps, improve communication, and enhance the overall dance experience, leading to more successful and enriching artistic collaborations.