How to Barrel Turn in Jazz Dancing

Doing the barrel turn in jazz dancing is one way to add a bit of pizazz to your dancing. While a little tricky to learn at first, you will soon find it fun to do on the dance floor with the cool rhythms of jazz.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Begin slowly to get each part of the barrel turn down. You will have plenty of time to do the barrel turn in jazz dancing to tempo once you've mastered it.

2. Start the barrel turn in jazz dancing by standing with your feet about shoulder width apart.

3. Step back with your right foot and pivot on the ball of your foot until your back is facing the center of the room.

4. Continue turning your body until it faces the middle of the floor by lifting up your left foot and pivoting on your right foot.

5. Place your left foot beside your right foot to complete the barrel turn in jazz dancing.

6. Create the momentum for the barrel turn in jazz dancing by moving your arms in a circle. Start with them low, then bring them up and around in the direction you are turning.

7. Add more to your barrel turn by beginning the turn with your knees bent. As you turn, your legs will straighten and you will end with your legs bent again. Combined with the movement of your arms, you will be able to add a little lift to your barrel roll turn in jazz dancing.

8. Bring your barrel roll turn in jazz dancing up to tempo by actually jumping from one foot to the other as you complete your turn. The combination of springing up from your bent legs and the rotation of your arms will help bring you around as you do the barrel turn in jazz dancing.

Resources

• Kelly-Anne demonstrates
• Dance Help provides a helpful dictionary