The Dance Primer

I had the opportunity to speak with Dax Hock about his dancing. I was impressed by his intellectual approach to things, as well as how easily he shares what he’s learned. If you get the chance to learn from Dax, I would highly recommend him.

What’s your biggest tip for beginner dancers?

Be persistent in your learning and do a lot of social dancing. Also, dance as much as possible with the advanced dancers (I know it’s scary, but it is the quickest route to becoming a better dancer). Find inspiration, meet people, make friends, and dive in! People who are hooked get better! Also, as you improve, traveling to different dance scenes can mix things up and be inspirational. Overall the more you dance the better you’ll get!

It is also important to realize there’s lots of learning sources, from social dancing, DVD’s, local classes, workshops and YouTube videos. Just get out there and be persistent and if you are looking to seriously improve, try setting a goal and work to achieve it. The more you are involved in the social scene, the dance, and the community, the more you will get out of the the experience.

Speaking of goals, what kind of goals do you have right now for your dancing?

I’m trying to make happen in my physical body what I imagine in my mind is possible with dancing. In other words, after 10 years I have developed this idea in my head of how amazing dancing can be; rhythmically, creatively, stylistically, musically, connectionisticly*, etc. I’m constantly striving to accomplish these things and pushing to reach that limit while keeping it pure lead and follow!

That’s great. That’s a really good answer because that’s the type of goal that even a beginner can have, and not just something like “my goal is to go win this competition.” So that’s a good example. Thanks.

I would say… This is my big thing. Whenever I teach a workshop I ask my students if they want to get better at dancing, and of course the answer is yes. That is usually why they’re in the class. And then I ask them “so what is dancing?” And many have trouble really answering the question. I then like to ask, “how do you expect to get better at something if you don’t even know what it is?” I think people spend far too little time thinking about dancing. For example, what dancing actually is, what makes good dancing, and what differentiates it from “not as good” dancing? Why other people might be improving faster or having more fun? I guess the point I like to make to those interested in improvement is this….if you don’t really understand what something is you’re not going to be able to get much better at it. This goes for the dance as a whole or a concept as small as rhythm, leading, or a swing out.

When I teach, I like to provide answers to these questions in a way that physically relates to the body, that way you can practice it, instead of just think you know it. I think if you can’t break down dancing into physical things that you can practice you’re just gonna kind of wander around for a while a bit lost. Some people might get better naturally and other might struggle for a long time. But, it is like a mystery until you know what is it you’re trying to do.

When you look at swing dancing, it’s not like ballet where you need this perfect dancer’s body, or unnatural like ridiculous competition ballroom that is totally off the music. Swing is a very natural movement if you relax into the music and let your body move rhythmically. Swing was created and refined on the social dance floor, not in the ballroom in front of a mirror. That is what makes it feel so good! So if you’re not moving your body rhythmically and naturally it’s hard for me to say “that’s good dancing”, when for me it is resembles “movin’ around” tying to create shapes and footwork patterns that don’t really makes sense while music is playing in the background. In the end there is a lot of core elements you can focus on – but I think if people better understand the music, dance, and connection they will be able to make every social dance a positive learning experience. And RELAX. That’s the number one tip.

Relax?

Yup, because excess muscle tension causes our bodies to do every bad habit there is. We can’t balance, do footwork, maintain frame, move in rhythm, move in style and much more if we have unnecessary muscle tension in our body. It prevents us from being able to move naturally. I like to think everyone’s body wants to dance, at least when some good swing is playing, and all we have to do is JUST LET IT. In other words, be at your optimal point of relaxation at all times, and let your body do the rest!

This is the primary difference between the pros and everyone else. Of course it could be broken down into little specific things like, like foot work, arm stylings, variations, blah blah blah, but that is like viewing dance though a toilet paper roll and creating an endless list of things to fix.

What, for you personally, is the biggest challenge you’ve faced – or something you’ve overcome when it comes to dancing?

The biggest challenge for me was overcoming a back injury. I hurt my back really bad and herniated my L4 and L5 discs. I thought I wouldn’t be able to dance again which created a huge mental burden as well as a physical one. But I kept training, and stuck to the regime that my physical therapist gave me. Once I was able to start dancing again and use my back, it was a huge weight off my shoulders. I could have given up dance and just played on my computer, and pursued a musicians lifestyle, but thank the swing man I didn’t.

That’s sort of boring, so otherwise I would have to say that working on our last team routine, that the “Ninjammers” put together, was INSANE. It was physically the hardest routine I’ve ever done in my life, at least that I can recall. The 2003 US Open was a tough one, but mostly cause of my back injury that I mentioned earlier.

[Watch a video of the routine:]

In the long run, the main challenge has been constantly pushing my dancing and teaching forward. I constantly search for the next step towards developing and refining my ideas and theories to embrace all styles of good dancing. As a teacher I seek to increase students ability to understand what they see, how to use their body, and most of all; make more accessible this luscious level of Lindy, which only the top dancers get to enjoy. It’s just not fair otherwise All this has been a challenge but I have been blessed with the company of so many talented people who have helped me along the way.

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*Fantastic photography by Bryant Gover. Check out his website, and watch for his upcoming Lindy Hop Photography book!

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Meet some other Lindy Hoppers/Swing Dancers: Jojo Jackson, Naomi Uyama, and Kevin Wong

Today, a little video teaser. (It’s been too long since I’ve posted a video, hasn’t it!) I’ve got another great interview on the verge of being ready to post, but today, I’ll give you a visual clue of who you can read about soon…

Social Dancing:

Teaching:

More on YouTube

P.S.
You may have already seen video footage of him on this very blog…

This look at the blogroll is a bit shorter than usual, but I’d rather get them out there instead of waiting around in my drafts…

If you are an author on one of these blogs, I’d love for you add a little more about what your site is all about, or about yourself personally, in the comments. Thanks!

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** I always enjoy Carl’s dance blog and his thorough articles on swing, jazz and tap. He thinks deeply about the dance, and includes plenty of photo and video footage to supplement his writing.

*The Carole Edrich Weblog journals her thoughts working as a freelance writer with a focus “on travel combined with adventure, wine, luxury and dance.” Most of her posts are short and sweet, and from what I’ve read so far focused on tango.

*Chorebot isn’t really a blog, rather it’s a page about VICKI, a machine that generates choreography. It sounds very interesting, and I’ve seen musical performances that include electronic composers that sound similar.

*Makeda Thomas’ Great Dance blog, Choreographer’s Carnival, gives us a look at her life in Trinidad. She writes with the natural voice of an artist, and with a soul like that, I’m sure her dance is just as beautiful.

*We are treated to a weekly performance of video and written word on Clare Byrne’s Weekly Rites. This is another blog I would catagorize under performance art, moreso than dance, although the videos are about movement in her body… so I guess it depends on how you define both performance art and dance.

*Counter Critic is just that. From their own about page, “Counter Critic is an alternative resource for arts criticism and a forum for response to mainstream critics.”

*Critical Correspondence creates wonderful dialog both on the blog posts and in the forum, where dancers can register, write articles, and respond to each other.

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See also Parts I and II of this series. 

There’s a new blog on the dance-blogger scene which looks to be a fantastic addition. Dance Advantage has a very similar focus to The Dance Primer, though its author has more experience in solo dancing. A perfect complement in my opinion! I strongly encourage you to check it out… especially during my extended lulls without posting. (Sorry about that. Priorities change sometimes - especially as the weather improves and outdoor work becomes more pressing than computer time.)

In my last post, I focused on critics and also mentioned how to deal with them specifically. I think it would also be helpful to take a look at the different ways people react to criticism. Doesn’t it make you cringe when you watch a performer on a reality competition show that gets super defensive about their awful performance? (And it’s hilariously worse when their mother is there to defend them as well.) Aren’t you impressed by those who seem to soak up every piece of advice they can get, and use it to improve their performance? Let’s take a closer look at different reactors:

I truly believe I’m better than anyone - This person is completely deaf to any critics. Nobody else’s opinions’ matter because nobody else is as good as they are. I don’t know if this person exists in reality, but there are many out there who offer this persona. In reality, I ‘d bet they are pretty hard on themselves, but don’t let anyone see it.

I’m totally offended - This person will let any criticisms hurt their feelings and lower their opinion of the critic. They may even go so far as to respond with insults. They benefit nothing from the given advice.

Thanks, but! - This person goes into defense mode, and will not initially hear the criticism. If told, “you need to stop looking at your feet while you dance,” they’ll say “I don’t look at my feet when I dance,” or “you too!” Defensive reactions will not help you improve.

Listen and nod - This person has the self control to not outwardly express any defensiveness they may feel. They internalize the criticism, for better or worse.

Can you clarify? - I recently posted some scenes I’ve drafted for my novel on a peer review site. A few critics made comments like “I see places for structural improvement.” My thoughts were, “that’s nice, but what are you talking about?” I asked them to point out some specific items to me. Even if they don’t point me to every problem, at least they give me an idea of what to look for and I can go from there.

Thank you, I appreciate learning ways to improve - The people I’ve seen react this way are always the fastest to improve. Rather than being nervous when the instructor comes toward them, they are excited for the opportunity for personal feedback. They take criticisms, and turn them into their own strengths. People with this sort of humble drive go far in whatever they try. Humility allows for growth in ways that stubborn pride never will.

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My personal favorites:

I personally love the critic who cares about me, so they want me to be better. My favorite teachers were always the ones who pushed me, yet weren’t shy about giving deserved compliments. I’ve always had little patience for flattery or the “my way is the only way” types. I admit, I could learn more from them (well, maybe not the flatterers) and need to be more open to hearing what they have to say.

I envy those who are grateful for all the criticism they receive. I am grateful for a lot of it, but do admit that I can get reactionary and defensive at times, or I’ll not give the critic much credit and completely ignore what they have to say. Ideally, I would always be the “can you clarify” type, and know that sometimes I am - but not always.

As a critic myself, I strive to give the kind of critiques that I like to get. I’ve had to do so professionally many times. I admit that where criticism is a regular part of any interaction, it can be easy to forget to point out positives. (I’m thinking job management, peer reviews, parenting, etc.) My hope is to leave people feeling excited to improve.
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What is your honest initial reaction to criticism? What are ways you can improve?

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*Photo by James Gordon on Flickr.

Criticism is a huge part of our lives, and if it hasn’t been there in our dancing yet - it’s very possible it will be soon, especially if you’re serious about improving. The most public example I can think of is American Idol/SYTYCD - where those who have the confidence to audition in the first place may be experiencing criticism for the first time. Everyone reacts differently. So, not just for our dancing but also for coping with life in general, I thought it may be helpful to look into different kinds of criticism, and different ways we can react to it. First, let’s look at the critics.

Eight Types of Critics:

1. I care about you, so I want you to be perfect - This is that person who, no matter what you do, always has something to say about what you could have done better. This person usually has your best interest at heart, but may show their affection for you by pointing you toward what they see as perfection. A compliment may be hard to come by from this person. When receiving their criticism, try to remember that they’re only trying to help. We all need to realize, there may be moments of perfection, but perfection overall is an unattainable goal and those who seek it will meet disappointment.
2. I care about you, so I want you to be better - This is a milder version of the perfectionist. They may critique you often, but they will also offer compliments when you deserve them. Their criticism may be more encouraging, as they are more realistic about where you are and where you can go. Critiques from this person are often helpful, even if they are challenging.
3. I don’t want to hurt your feelings… fluff, flatter, and non-criticism - Think Paula Abdul as a judge. Doesn’t she just love everybody? Even those who are tone deaf, the worst she can do is giggle and say, “I’m sorry.” Flattery may help your ego, but in reality it won’t get you anywhere.
4. I’m a professional, and I know what I’m doing - Some instructors believe in the saying, “it’s my way, or the highway.” Or, at least that’s how they come across in their teaching. Sometimes, they are right. There are certain things that are most effectively done certain ways, and if you’re learning from a professional, it’s a good idea to learn whatever you can from them, even if it means trying something a way that may not work for you now. (You can always throw it out later, but if you’re open to try it in the first place, you really could learn something.)
5. The professional critic - Different than the professional in the field itself, this person is looking to share with the world the quality of what is presented to them, and you probably won’t encounter them unless performing in a professional show. They likely have great depth in their knowledge of the subject, so in that regard they are to be taken somewhat seriously. However, their job is also to sell words, so exaggerating the negative or positive aspects of what they see will often happen.
6. The accidental critic -This may come from a peer who let’s their opinion slip out. As hurtful or helpful as what they say may be, it is wise to recognize someone’s honest opinion as valuable and learn what you can from it - even if it is humbling and difficult.
7. I truly believe I’m better than everyone - This is the person that may offer advice to everyone, yet never seem to have a smile on their own face. You may listen to what they have to say, but judge wisely. Is this really someone you want to emulate? If so, you may want to take their advice seriously. If not, let it go.
8. I need to put others down to build myself up - This person hasn’t learned that when you push others down, you go down with them. Don’t let their criticism hurt your feelings. Instead, recognize that they probably need some self-esteem of their own.
9. The Self Critic -This critic is often the worst, and the most unfair. It focuses only on negatives and is often blind to the positives or improvements. Remind yourself to judge fairly, against your own abilities.

How do you feel about these critics? Which ones do you face most often? How do you deal with them? (Next, we’ll look at different ways people react to criticism in general.)

Congrats to Karly, winner of the drawing for the book, The Scarlet Stockings by Charlotte Kandel.

One of my very favorite photographers just posted his pictures from the Portland Lindy Exchange. (Remember, that Swing Fest dance party I posted about a while ago?) The one night I was able to go out was the one night he didn’t bring his camera - which may be a good thing…

Anyway, you should really go check out the pictures, by Evrim Icoz!

Another regular reader who is a great asset to our dance scene in Portland also posted his pics, and did manage to snap a shot of me. You can check them out here. Look for the one of me if you want. It’s kind of like Where’s Waldo.

There are even more event photos here.

I was honored to receive a free copy of the book, The Scarlet Stockings by Charlotte Kandel, to review for your sake.

My first review draft was pretty dumb, and read something like this: It was a really good book and I enjoyed reading it, and I bet you will too. Honestly, that’s not gonna get me excited to go out and read a book.

I gotta say, I’m not a ballerina, and never aspired to be… except perhaps for a brief moment before my first ballet class when picking out my pink leotard. I’ve never been an orphan or adopted. I’ve never had to overcome great obstacles to get to where I want to go. And I’ve definitely never received a mysterious package that contained a magical mystery.

So why did I feel a personal connection to the heroine of this book?

I think it comes down to a question we all ask ourselves at various points in our lives: Can I really become the person I want to be?

I think the answer to this, for all of us, is yes. We may not have overt jealous enemies hindering our way. We may not have enormous obstacles like restrictive guardians or absolutely no money. However, we all have hurdles of some kind to clear. For some, it may be lack of confidence. For others, it may be pure laziness. For a lot of us, real life gets so time consuming that we run out of time and energy to chase our passions.

But if we really do want something bad enough, we will work for it. Sometimes we’ll take steps that actually get us further away from where we wanted to be, without realizing it. That’s part of life. Growing up. Learning. Sometimes we take important people for granted, people that will support us in becoming who we want to be. Sometimes, we get it right but may not even notice.

Throughout the book the question surfaces… is it really the magic that makes things happen, or could she have done it on her own? I certainly enjoyed the journey in discovering the answer.

Long review short: It was a really good book and I enjoyed reading it, and I bet you will too.

If you’ve read this far, I have some exciting news for you. It’s time for The Dance Primer’s first ever give away! I have a copy of The Scarlett Stockings that would really like to find it’s way into the hands of a reader. You can enter to win a copy of the book simply by commenting on this post before Sunday, March 16th. (One entry per person, even if you post multiple comments.) I will randomly choose a winner. Make sure to include your contact information (email address in the comments form, no need to publish personal info publicly) so I can get the book to you.

So here’s the hot question you can answer in your comment:

What’s keeping you from being the dancer you want to be, and what can you do about it?

Ok, I’ll let myself get completely off the dance topic for this one post… mostly because it would be a good idea for me to start posting regularly again, don’t you agree? I was tagged by Maria at A Time To Dance, and as she said, “in the spirit of blog love…”
Here are the rules:
1 - Link to the blog who tagged you (above)
2 - Post the rules on your blog
3 - Share seven random and/or weird things about yourself.
4 - Tag seven people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
5 - Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Ok… lets see if I can find seven random enough things about myself.

1. I am number five of six kids, none of whom live in the same state, and none of us live near where we grew up. Well, one is still in the same state, but just barely. (My husband is the oldest of eight, four of whom are adopted and still elementary school aged.) My sisters are my besestest friends in the whole world… I don’t see them nearly enough! (I’m second from the left.)

2. My dream house is a little greenhouse on a small piece of farmland, in the Portland area. For now, I live in a bedroom in my in-laws good sized home on good sized hobby farmland. There are plenty of chickens and ducks running around, not to mention little children. My next project is to pick a permanent salad garden spot, with cold frames for year-round harvests.

3. I grew up spending my summers wearing ribbon dresses and living in a teepee. My dad was a Mountain Man, and has even published a book on the subject! (It’s actually more of a guide book for making Mt. Man type stuff, not about the history or anything like that.) Here’s a picture of little me in my favorite dress… not a ribbon dress FYI.

4. I just began attempts on writing my first novel. Sorry, that’s what’s been distracting my computer time from posting here. Bad Amber!

5. My hair grows fast. My first year of college, I had a new haircut every time my parents saw me. After I told the stylist to cut it “as short as you dare” my mom threatened to ban me from scissors. I currently have long hair. This is the only picture I have of me with my super short hair. (That’s me on the right, if it’s not obvious.)

6. I love to travel. I driven across the country seven times… most recently, last July with my husband and our travel gnome (aka sixteen month old son) in a car with no air conditioning (but which gets fantastic MPGs). Pictured: us after driving to the top of the world… or that’s how we felt. It was awesome. (Actually, it was near Brian Head, Utah - and we drove much higher than that later in the trip.) I took thousands of pics on this trip. It was hard to choose just one.

7. I take a ridiculously large number of photos of my son (2,202 currently tagged with his name on my flickr page), and then compile them into photo books for his birthday.

Now, tagging seven people makes this feel like a chain letter. So, I’ll do it just for fun, but please don’t feel any obligation from my tagging you. I won’t be offended if you don’t do it. I tag Lyric Art, Karly Barrett, Evrim Icoz, Swan Lake Samba Girl (Tonya Plank), Henrik on Swing, Jazz, and Blues, Carl’s Jazz Dance Blog, and Bernadette at Just for the Halibut.