Modern I

The class will begin with a center warm up consisting of roll downs and flat backs, contraction and release, fall and recovery, shifting body weight using gravity, various balances, and a focus on the percussive strokes of the music. As taught at The Ailey School, codified Horton technique incorporates 17 “fortification studies” (among other elements) that each focus on a different idea, such as descent/ascent and laterals, or body parts such as the Achilles tendons or abdominals. Class then progresses across the floor with movement phrases, turns, single-foot arch springs (jumps from one foot) and falls.  Individual interpretation and performance skills will be emphasized through the technical framework. Modern dance is also a great class to take in preparation for summer dance programs, performing arts high schools, college auditions and professional company auditions.