We're now approaching the final sessions of the current Dancz term.
It's been a busy term, and we've also had the added pressure of the Dancz exams - which I must say went really well (if I do say myself!!) I'm a proud teacher.
As we approach the end of term, we always like to test / challenge the Danczers, just to prove how far we come during the term. One of my favourite challenges is to test the Danczers on their ability to count in to the music, and then keep time. It can be tricky, as it's very easy to get caught up with 'the routine' and 'the technique' that we almost forget that the reason for danczing is to express ourselves to the music being played.
The dances that always seem to challenge the danczers most are the Cha Cha and Rumba. The main reason for this is that all our routines commence with a preparation / settling in step, which means that we have to start danczing on the count of ‘4’. The main mistake that is made is that the danczers are great at finding the ‘1’ but they don’t move on count 4, they wait until the 1- which means they are then danczing out of time – eekkk (one of my pet hates!!!)
In the Dancing World it is imperative that you dance ‘in time’ with the music to succeed. Throughout my competition days – whether it be competing or training competitors, I frequently watched those who danced ‘in time’ (with the music) triumph over those who may have been ‘better’ dancers but who weren’t dancing with the music.
So here’s a challenge for you J
This week when you are listening to music (at home/ in the car/ out clubbing) try and pick up the first beat of the bar ‘1’ and then count 2,3 and then follow it with a Cha Cha Cha (4 & 1) or Slow (4,1). This is how we count in to a basic Cha Cha or Rumba.
(WARNING - Be careful that you don't delay your movement and count the 4 as well!!)
If you’re struggling just tap your foot, click your fingers, or simply clap your hands and you’ll find that more often than not you will start on the first beat of the bar!!!
Good Luck J
Happy Danczing.
Zoé x
