Dance Class Defined: What to Expect in a Modern or Contemporary Dance Class

Popular TV shows like So You Think You Can Dance and Dance Moms have made modern and contemporary dance much more accessible to viewers. Originally created an alternative to the rigid structure of ballet, modern and contemporary dance allows personal expression through a wide-range of range of movement patterns. If you or your child are curious about these dance styles, this article will help explain the differences between the two and provide a starting point for you to locate great modern/contemporary classes near you!

What are Modern and Contemporary Dance Classes?

Modern dance methods taught by Martha Graham, Lester Horton, Merce Cunningham, Jose Limon, and other master instructors developed in late 19th and early 20th centuries. While classical ballet emphasizes lifted postures, turned out positions, and light and ethereal movement qualities, modern dance focuses on the contraction and release of the torso, the spiraling of the spine, weight transfers, intricate floorwork combinations, and personal expression. Below is an example of a traditional Martha Graham modern dance class.

Contemporary dance classes offered at local dance studios often merge the elements of early 20th century modern dance with additional skills from ballet, jazz, and lyrical dance disciplines. This current style can encourage deep connection to the music and lyrics and can allow for improvisation and body awareness. Choreography in contemporary classes can often include partner work, a variety of jumps and turns, breathwork, high and low levels of the body, and even acrobatics.

What to Expect at Your Studio

Because of the strong emphasis of body awareness, musicality, mind body connection, and self-expression modern/contemporary classes are generally offered to school-aged dancers and older with previous dance class experience. Some studios request students take an additional ballet or jazz class to enhance their modern/contemporary movement vocabulary.

Modern/contemporary classes can range anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes depending on the age and ability levels of students. Classes may include a warm-up, stretch and strengthening exercises, across the floor progressions, center choreography, and a chance for student improvisation.

Studios may offer a variety of performance opportunities for modern/contemporary students, so you may wish inquire about end of the year recital performances or community events.

What to Wear to Class

Check your studio’s dress code, but clothing should allow for freedom of movement while letting the instructor to see body placement and isolations. Leotards, unitards, leggings, and sports bras are all common clothing items worn in modern/contemporary classes.

Most modern/contemporary students dance in bare feet. Some teachers, however, may allow dance socks, ballet slippers, or other dance shoes so inquire when registering for class.

Hair should be pulled up and off of the face and jewelry should be kept to a minimum to avoid injury and distraction.

Where To Take Class

Are you interested in finding a great modern or contemporary dance class for you or your child? Click here to begin your search!

Watch a Modern/Contemporary Dance Class