D 177 Contemporary Dance 1

For dancers with little or no previous dance experience, this beginning level class accommodates the pre-major and non-major student. Modern dance technique is introduced with focus on three-dimensional use of the spine and torso, joint articulation and mobility, core strength, expressivity and spatial awareness. Given realistic progressive development, students will advance to Modern 2 after one term. Contents and expected learning proficiencies of this course vary from term to term. May be repeated up to 12 total credits.

Credits

2

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate and discuss an understanding of efficient alignment
2. Demonstrate and discuss mobility of the spine and head-tail connection in flexion, extension and rotation
3. Demonstrate and discuss articulation of hip-joints and feet
4. Demonstrate and discuss ability to release weight and to move actively into and out of the floor
5. Demonstrate and discuss placement and mobility of the shoulder girdle and arms
6. Demonstrate and discuss modern dance concepts: space, dynamics, rhythm and improvisation
7. Demonstrate and discuss ability to remember and perform simple dance phrases