Cultural/Ethnic Dance
Traci Davis
African Dance
African dance is considered polycentric, it set it apart from most other traditional dances in the world. In African dance the dancers body is segmented into separate area movements, we call this isolation. In the villages, they have a "dance master". The dance master teaches everyone of all ages how to perform the dances. The drum is a incredibly important instrument, it sets the mood. Although the drum is important, its not the only instrument they use. They use gourds strung with beads. Clapping, stamping feet and singing also sets the mood for the community. The "heart of the dance" is the rhythm. To African dancers music and dance is INSEPARABLE.
The Dance Hall | A-Z OF AFRICAN DANCE |
Hula Dance
Hula is a traditional form of dance developed in the Hawaiian Islands by the original settlers of the islands. Hula requires effortless hand motions and body movements used to represent the words in a song or chant. There are two categories of hula, Hula Kahiko and Hula ʻAuana. Hula Kahiko is based off of ancient hula. They use it to praise and honor their ancient gods. It's also used with chants but unlike 'Auana they don't use modern instruments. Hula 'Auana dance is accompanied by Western instruments like ukuleles, guitars, steel guitars, drums and falsetto songs.
Academy of Hawaiian Arts Wahine Kahiko 2014
AHA Merrie Monarch 2015 Wahine 'Auana
Flamenco
Flamenco is originated from Spain. It's always been a outlet source to the poor and oppressed. It was passed on orally. The flamenco song involves at least four different cultures, the Gypsies, the Moors or Arabs, the Jews and the Andalusians. It became a public performing art in the second half of the 19th century. Flamenco is more of a Southern Mexican form of art. It has three forms, Cante, Baile, and Guitarra. Sometimes Gipsies are considered the fathers of Flamenco. Flamenco is very complex, form the patterns of rhythm and footwork to the posture.
http://www.spain-info.com/Culture/flamenco.htm
http://www.red2000.com/spain/flamenco/
Flamenco Dance