Jazz dance is a lively and expressive dance style that blends elements of African steps with European styles of movement. Emerging in the early 20th century alongside Jazz music, Jazz dance was born from intimate religious and social gatherings and has always had a performative feel. Known for its high energy, sharp movements, and improvisational spirit, Jazz dance incorporates syncopated rhythms, isolations, and fluid transitions. Over time, it has expanded into various styles, from lyrical Jazz to modern jazz, influencing both stage performances and popular culture. With its versatility and infectious energy, Jazz dance continues to captivate audiences and dancers alike.
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History
Jazz dance was originated from African Dance.
The roots of jazz dance trace back to African dance traditions brought to America by enslaved Africans. These dances were characterized by low, grounded movements, bent knees, and pulsating body motions, often accompanied by hand-clapping and complex rhythms.
Jazz dance flourished more into vibrant, new forms.
In the late 19th and early 20th century, African American communities began blending their traditional dances with European styles, giving rise to new forms. these new dance moves resulted in dance trends, including the Charleston, Swing, Boogie-Woogie and other fads.
Jazz dance became a studied technique.
Jazz dance was a popular activity in ballrooms in the 1940s and 1950s. It was around this time that Jazz dance started to turn into a studied technique instead of just a free form of social dancing.
The dance became more mainstream and continued to develop.
Jazz dance appeared more on stage and on screen. There are many different branches of jazz dance in our culture today: vernacular, Broadway, commercial, lyrical, and modern.
Music
One of the most important concepts in Jazz dance is swing. Swing feeling is crucial and instinctual for Jazz dancers. Therefore, music for Jazz dance must swing. The genres of music that swing include Jazz, Blues, r&b, Funk, and more.
Big names
Below are dancers who have made prominent impacts on the world of
Jazz dance.
