Creating Masterpieces!
Do you ever watch a video or take a dance class and wonder how the choreographer came up with such a masterpiece? I do, all the time, and I’m sure we all do. As a dancer and choreographer I can tell you these pieces aren’t created overnight, and process isn’t free of its ups & downs.
Sometimes the process can be so easy and we feel so motivated that the movement just flows and then sometimes we can’t even get an eight count to save our lives. But it’s when we share these ideas, and artistry to students and people that makes it all worth it.
If you’re an aspiring choreographer, or just love creating dance then keep reading.
One very important I’ve learned choreographing through out the years is to understand the song you’re using completely. The beats, rhythm, meaning, etc. These are all crucial to the process. I found myself stuck at many times when I would rush to choreograph to a song I barley listened to. But when I choreographed to a song that I connected and studied, the movement just flowed naturally and I was more satisfied with the piece. It’s like really like a study guide for an exam. You need to learn and understand the material in order to pass the test.
Some tips for choreographing
1. Freestyle!
It’s the best way to understand how your body moves and what looks most natural on you. It also helps you get out of that choreographer’s block.
2. Take a dance class!
It’s probably one of the best ways to expand your dance vocabulary. Get inspired by another teachers’ movements and put your own twist on it.
3. Collaborate!
Working with other people to create a piece is one of my favorite things to do. You’ll be surprised by what you can learn from another person’s creative process!”
The most difficult part of starting a new dance is finding the perfect song to choreograph to. I’ve learned that my best work comes from the songs that inspires me regardless of genre, artist, feeling, lyrics or otherwise. When I make the decision not to care about the product itself and who will see it or learn it in class, then my mind is so much more free and the movement is much more genuine. I often find that I actually like those pieces more than the pieces I just force out to songs that I think people want to learn to or are popular right now. With all of that said, one tip I can give aspiring choreographers is to let go of your own thoughts that are the only thing from holding you and your choreography back. Don’t choreograph to impress other people, do it to share a story. Your story.
John Roque
Dance educator/Choreographer
