How to Learn Traditional African-American Dances
African-American dance is anything but traditional. Africans brought different dance styles with them from their various homelands, which were combined with European dances to form hybrids that continue until today. With numerous styles, genres and origins, African Americans have embraced dance as part of the cultural zeitgeist. With so many choices, it is possible to learn some of the dances associated with African-American culture.
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Instructions
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Get an instructional video tape or DVD and practice traditional African-American dance in the privacy of your own home. This is not only fun, but it can also can help you incorporate some exercise into your life. It is also great for those who are a little shy and who would not be comfortable in a class.
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Take a class at a dance studio or at a community college. You can usually find African dance, tap, modern and hip-hop classes at various skill levels and at relatively reasonable prices at these institutions. There are also usually classes for all ages, from children to senior citizens.
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Attend a conference or seminar that focuses on African-American dances, like Black Dance USA (see Resources below). These gatherings bring together like-minded individuals who want to learn about and participate in various styles of dance.
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Learn traditional African-American dances from friends or family members who may be familiar with some of the movements and who are patient enough to teach you. Not only can you improve your skills, but it is also a pleasant way to spend time with your loved ones.
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Read about traditional African American dances in a book that traces the history of dance through the centuries. "African American Dance: An Illustrated History" by Barbara S. Glass, is one the best ways to see the progression of dance through several generations (see Resources below).
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Tips & Warnings
Get your feet wet by participating in introductory classes held at various African-American festivals or fairs held around the country. You can often decide whether you are interested in investing in regular classes by taking one of these short classes.
Get your doctor's approval before beginning any exercise or dance program, to make sure you are fit enough to participate.
