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Resources for Learning Dance

· 3 min read
Max Kaido
Max Kaido
Architect

1. YouTube​

YouTube is a vast resource with countless tutorials and performances.

  • Hip-Hop:

    • Channels: Matt Steffanina, Urban Dance Camp, Dance Tutorials LIVE.
    • Tips: Search for "Hip-Hop basics for beginners" or specific moves like "How to do the Reebok dance move".

  • House:

    • Channels: House Dance Forever, YNOTism, Brian Green.
    • Tips: Look up "House dance footwork tutorials" or "Basic House dance steps".

  • Popping:

    • Channels: Popping John, VincaniTV, El Tiro.
    • Tips: Search for "Popping basics", "How to Pop", or specific techniques like "Hitting".

  • Dancehall:

    • Channels: Dancehall Funk, Latonya Style, Global Bob.
    • Tips: Look for "Dancehall moves for beginners" or "Dancehall step-by-step tutorials".

2. Online Dance Platforms​

  • Steezy Studio:

    • Offers structured classes in various styles.
    • Provides a free trial to explore different lessons.

  • DancePlug:

    • Features tutorials from professional dancers.
    • Covers a wide range of styles and levels.

  • Udemy and Skillshare:

    • Paid courses with comprehensive content.
    • Look for courses with high ratings and positive reviews.

3. Social Media Platforms​

  • Instagram:

    • Follow hashtags like #hiphopdance, #housedance, #poppingdance, #dancehall.
    • Dancers and instructors often post short tutorials and tips.

  • TikTok:

    • Short-form videos with trending dance moves.
    • Search for challenges or tutorials related to your styles of interest.

4. Apps for Learning Dance​

  • Just Dance Now:

    • Interactive app to learn popular dance routines.
    • Fun way to practice and improve your moves.

  • Pocket Salsa (for rhythm and coordination):

    • While focused on salsa, it helps with musicality applicable to all styles.

5. Online Communities and Forums​

  • Reddit:

    • Join subreddits like r/Dance, r/HipHopDance, or r/Dancehall.
    • Engage with the community for recommendations and advice.

  • Dance Forums:

    • Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share resources.

6. Official Websites and Courses​

  • Mr. Wiggles’ Website:

    • Offers tutorials on popping and other street dance styles.
    • Provides insight from a pioneer in the dance community.

  • Dancehall Master Classes:

    • Look for official courses taught by renowned dancehall dancers.

7. Local Dance Schools Offering Online Classes​

  • Many dance studios offer virtual classes.
  • Check websites of local schools for online schedules.
  • Benefits include real-time feedback from instructors.

8. DVDs and Digital Downloads​

  • Purchase instructional DVDs from reputable instructors.
  • Available on platforms like Amazon or the instructors' official websites.
  • Good for structured learning without internet distractions.

9. Tips for Finding Quality Videos​

  • Instructor Credentials:

    • Research the background of instructors.
    • Prefer those with professional experience or recognition in the dance community.

  • Video Quality:

    • High-resolution videos with clear audio enhance learning.
    • Look for videos with positive feedback and high view counts.

  • Structured Content:

    • Tutorials that start with basics and progressively increase in difficulty.
    • Series or playlists dedicated to beginners.

10. Practice Tools​

  • Use a Mirror:

    • Helps in self-correction and understanding body movements.

  • Record Yourself:

    • Analyze your performance to identify areas of improvement.

  • Music Playlists:

    • Create playlists with songs typical for each style.
    • Practice syncing your moves to the rhythm.

11. Engage with the Dance Community​

  • Workshops and Live Streams:

    • Attend virtual workshops hosted by professional dancers.
    • Participate in live classes for interactive learning.

  • Social Media Interaction:

    • Comment on tutorials, ask questions, and seek feedback.
    • Connect with fellow learners for mutual support.

12. Cultural Understanding​

  • Documentaries and Interviews:
    • Watch content that explores the history and culture behind each style.
    • Understanding the roots enhances your appreciation and expression.

13. Safety and Health​

  • Warm-Up and Cool-Down Routines:

    • Always prepare your body to prevent injuries.
    • Include stretching to improve flexibility.

  • Pace Yourself:

    • Start slow to ensure proper technique.
    • Gradually increase complexity and speed.

14. Consistency and Patience​

  • Regular Practice:

    • Set aside time each day to practice.
    • Consistency leads to improvement.

  • Set Realistic Goals:

    • Break down your learning into achievable milestones.
    • Celebrate progress to stay motivated.

Remember, learning dance is a personal journey. Utilize these resources to find what works best for you, and don't hesitate to reach out to instructors or communities for guidance. Enjoy the process, stay dedicated, and have fun expressing yourself through dance!