improvisation and contact jams
Dance Music

Movement Playlist #8: Contact Improvisation

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Movement Playlist #8–Contact Improvisation

 We’re Jammin’; 84 mins
contact improvisation
©️ Temple Santa Barbara

This past Sunday, I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Pramod Miguel Bento and Rita Vilhena, two beautiful dancers and Contact Improvisation facilitators in Lisbon, Portugal. Every Sunday, Pramod and Rita facilitate open Contact Improvisation classes followed by a 2 hour jam session. Like in most dance classes– live or digital music facilitates the class too. To my delight Pramod and Rita’s music was fantastic. They even allowed me play some of my own playlists.

When did Contact Improvisation develop?

It’s said that it was started and presented by American Dancer/Choreographer, Steve Paxton in 1970’s in the United States, however it is now practiced all over the world. There’s even an online directory  where you can find out where to take contact improvisation classes or attend a jam session. Check out Contact Quarterly, started by a dancer and founding participant, Nancy Stark Smith, for more information.

What happens in a Contact Jam?

The facilitator often sets the environment (usually after a warmup or improvisation class) where dancers alternate partners in and out of the main space with or without music. ‘Partners’ begin in a duet which can form into a group. Dancers outside the main space can relax, stretch, or keep improvising. The object is to stay in the present, listen to your body, listen to other dancers’ bodies, and be open to playful movement exploration, or authentic movement.

Are there any rules?

There are certain techniques and movements that dancers can use within a Contact Improvisation jam. The general ‘technique’ is to maintain a soft, yet supportive body to help distribute weight, which is the key. Movements are kept soft and supple to allow elements of ‘surprise’ within the body, within the space, and with your partner(s). ‘The floor is your friend’, they say! Therefore maintaining a sense of being grounded helps the dancer find balance and necessary feedback to create the next movement.

Discover more –

History of Contact Improvisation

Basic Movements of Contact Improvisation

Contact Improv Worldwide Directory

Steve Paxton Talking Dance

Enjoy!

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Movement Playlist #7: Barre Fitness

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movement playlist #7: barre and dance fitness

A few months ago, I’ve started covering Barre Fitness classes for City Academy and Triyoga, Camden, which caters towards those interested in ballet, cardio and overall movement and alignment as an upbeat fitness class. These classes also include yoga and pilates mat exercises.

This particular method has challenged me to keep my music upbeat, simple, clear, yet really enjoyable. In this playlist, you’ll get a sample of what I’d usually play when I’m teaching these classes, which is quite different from my slower driven mixes meant for improvisation, for example.

What is Barre Fitness?

Barre Fitness may also be called ‘barre fit’, ‘barre workout’, ‘barre core’, or ‘ballet barre’.  This method is derivative and based off the Lotte-Berk Method and The Bar Method. It wonderfully targets muscle groups while focusing on lengthening the muscles, just like ballet. Classes sizes are usually with up to 6-7 people at a time, so it’s gives you a ‘group personal training’ feel.

It is, of course, also great with different fitness levels and body types. No experience or ballet shoes required! Check out the schedule at Triyoga or at City Academy and try it for yourself.

What are my Barre Fitness classes like?

It’s a mixture of Yoga and Dance moves combined with specific strengthening and stretching exercises. These exercises include the use of props, such as weights, and floor work. My goal is always to allow students to pay attention to their alignment during to gain the most out of each exercise.

The class focuses on always working and using the entire body but in ways that are achievable yet challenging. Key emphasis: back of leg (i.e. hamstring, gluteus) and core connection. At the end, you’ll feel more energised, properly aligned, and ready for the rest of your day.

Kindall usually covers the 1:15PM Barre Fitness class, Saturdays at Triyoga, Camden. Stay tuned for updates on the blog’s Facebook page.

If you liked that one, check out my Warm Up and Cool Down Playlist.

Enjoy!

xo