Blogpost 7 : Make Your Own Choreography

Choreography is the art of creating dances. It is one of the most imaginative way on expressing art and emotion. The word derives from Greek which means ‘dance’ and ‘write.’ Literally, the dance choreography was really written years ago in like 17^th to 18^th century. But in late 19^th and 20^th century, it is known to be called as the dance notation; it is a recording of dance movement through the use of symbols.

I just attended a dance class today with the other DC members and with Coach Japheth Reyes at Groove Central.  We took the ‘LA style’ dance class. I can say this class is truly worth it. We really learned a lot in the basis of choreography. Coach Jap always tells us that each dancer has uniqueness in choreography. Each has its differences, creativity and quality. It doesn't have any requirement when you need to make choreography but it does need your passion for dancing. If you have no passion, you will not be able to create a unique choreography made just by you. That’s why he encourages us to discover ourselves in dancing. Because once you discovered yourself already, you’ll be making your choreography as well as you are writing your own life story.

I researched an article entitled, “Making dance: The choreographic process” in artsalive by Lesley Leslie- Spinks. This article shows how choreography is uniquely made by choreographers who has inspiration, determination and a refined craft of dance.  It also tells that choreography is not an easy thing to do. Choreography consists of what you are and what you want to showcase to others. Basically, choreographers are having a hard time on what is really his purpose in his choreography.

“Making visions of dance come alive requires inspiration, determination and refined craft. A choreographer may have vivid ideas for a new work. However, translating this imagination into dancers' bodies and shaping it into a dance that is ready to be performed is a very challenging, yet equally rewarding, process…For most choreographers, making dance is a passion. The poetry and excitement of movement motivates their creativity and they find their greatest potential for expression through the unique elements of dance.”

I agree of how the author translates choreography as the dancer’s passion. As you create a move, that move motivates you to make another one and another one. It is your unending passion of showing what you want to show and what you want to say to your audience.

Another article that I found that is also in relate to the topic is entitled “How to choreograph a dance” in wikihow by Cmseagle. It provides steps on how to successfully make your own choreography. I really like his opening statement which is, “Dancing and choreographing comes more naturally to some people than others. While technique is very important, time and patience are also required so don't get frustrated! If you want to choreograph as a career it is best to have a dancing background. This will enable you a better chance as you have experience. Remember you will also need to be a good performer, have a lot of self confidence and be open to meeting new people. You need to know what you are doing, otherwise you have no chance!”

When you try to make your own choreography, don’t limit yourself. Choreography is made not to limit but to express what you want to express. Try to pick the best music. Soothe the mood. Move your body at the same time know your hits. This will be able to help you connect a move to another. Remember making your own choreography does not need any requirements. Just your passion to dancing, and that’s it.