MODULE 10: Ballet, Modern, Pop, Ballroom, Folk and others

I.                    Objectives:

At the end of the lesson, the students are expected to:

a. identify the different classifications of dance;

b. state clearly the meaning of Ballet, Modern, Pop, Ballroom & Folk Dance; and

c. appreciate the different classifications of dance.

II.                  Overview:

This module talks more about the different classifications of dance. Actually, there are many classifications of dance, but this 5 classifications are well known and popular. After discussing this lesson, you will be able to identify the dance whether it is ballet, ballroom, modern, pop or folk dance. But the only difference is their style and the way they are danced.

III.                Learning Content:

·         Ballet

Ballet is a formalized kind of performance dance, which originated in the Italian Renaissance courts of the 15th century, and which was further developed in France and Russia as a concert dance form. Ballet serves as a backbone for many other styles of dance. Ballet uses music and dance to tell stories. The word “ballet” comes from the French word “ballare” which means “to dance”.

·         Modern Dance

Modern dance was born in the early 20^th century is a dance style that rejects many of the strict rules of classical ballet, focusing instead on the expression of inner feelings. It centers on a dancer’s own interpretations instead of structured steps. Modern dance was created as a rebellion against classical ballet, emphasizing creativity in choreography and performance.

·         Pop/Popular Dance

Dancing performed in public or in private solely for the enjoyment of the participants is known as popular dance. It was practiced as early as 3000 years ago at both community and family levels. Popular dance also defined as the best interactive audience dance entertainment participatory activity in the world.

·         Ballroom Dance

Ballroom dance refers to a set of partner dances, which are enjoyed both socially and competitively around the world. Because of its performance and entertainment aspects, ballroom dance is also widely enjoyed on stage, film, and television. In times past, ballroom dancing was social dancing for the privilege. In competition, ballroom dancers are judged by diverse criteria such as poise, the hold or frame, posture, musicality and expression, timing, body alignment and shape, floor craft, foot and leg action, and presentation.

·         Folk Dance

Folk Dance refers to a variety of dances developed by groups or communities, as opposed being made up by a choreographer. It is also a dance made by the people, dance by the people and handed down from generation to generation. It is also a form of dance developed by a group of people that reflects the traditional life of the people of a certain country or region. They are dances performed at social functions by people with little or no professional training, often to traditional music or music based on traditional music.