DANCE 261Beginning Modern Dance I

1 credit · Dance · Penn State

Introduction to modern dance as an art form; development of dance technique and composition; teaching methods for improvisational skills. DANCE 261 Beginning Modern Dance I (1.5) (GA) (BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. DANCE 261 is an introduction to Modern Dance. The course is designed for any student with an interest in Modern Dance and Dance Minors. This class explores the use of weight, time, space, and energy in relation to a release based modern dance technique. There is emphasis placed upon the development of a personal movement vocabulary, experimentation, and self-expression. Modern dance is grounded in somatic practices with importance placed upon finding organic or efficient ways to engage the body in movement. Students should demonstrate an opening and willing attitude in every class situation. Students are responsible for learning and executing all material taught in class. This class serves as a prerequisite for DANCE 262. Together these two semesters serve as core technique classes for all dance minors.