Contemporary
Contemporary dance blends elements of many dance styles and often includes techniques of somatic practices like yoga and Pilates too. The title “Contemporary dance,” is often interchanged with "Modern dance,” and while they both share the same general description, Contemporary dance has taken hold in most dance circles as a title that feels more current and flexible. Many well-known American modern dance styles like Horton, Graham and Limón, were designed by contemporary choreographers who wanted to create dance techniques to suit the demands of their creative visions. These choreographers also borrowed techniques from Native American dance forms. Our Contemporary Faculty have varied specialities and experiences offering dancers a rich and inclusive contemporary dance education as they advance. Contemporary dancers at Barriskill are exposed to modern dance techniques including Horton, floor work, and improvisation.
​STUDIO DIVISION
Contemporary 1 (7-10 year olds) students are introduced to the basic principles of contemporary including: developing body awareness, alignment, floor work, and technique. Participants will explore simple choreography and improvisation exercises.
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Contemporary 2 & 3 build on the basics learned in Level 1, emphasizing the development of technical skills and expressive capabilities. Students will delve into more complex movement sequences and begin to explore the use of space and dynamics in their dancing. This level encourages dancers to experiment with their personal style while maintaining a strong technical foundation.
CONSERVATORY DIVISION
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Contemporary 4, 5 (Simultaneous Ballet Highly Recommended) This intermediate-advanced class moves quicker then Studio Division classes. Dancers are expected to be comfortable moving in and out of the floor and approach each class with curiosity and willingness to try new movements. Class time focuses on specificities in technique and introduces longer combinations to challenge dancers mentally.
Contemporary 6 (Simultaneous Ballet Highly Recommended) is designed for dancers who have a solid grasp of contemporary dance fundamentals and wish to elevate their performance skills. This class emphasizes advanced technical prowess, intricate choreography, and the ability to convey compelling narratives through dance. Students will engage in performance projects that prepare them for stage presentations and encourage them to interpret music with depth and creativity.
Students new to BDTS should arrange a placement audition.
TWEEN/TEEN DIVISION
Teen Contemporary - Teen classes are for beginning students age 10 and older who may want to explore a new style of dance, or have no dance experience at all! Teen classes are designed so that students can learn with their peers without the difficulties of sharing a class with much younger students. Teen Division students often audition to be placed into a Conservatory level after mastering their fundamentals.
