Language isn’t just communicated through words, but it’s also expressed through body movement. Jazz dance, for example, is a style that conveys excitement and joy. There are various dance styles that allow people to express different emotions, including tap, ballet, and hip hop. The guide below details these styles further. 

Jazz

Jazz dance is a combination of African and European dance traditions but sees its origins in America during the 20th century. It emerged synonymous with jazz music in New Orleans, where it later spread throughout surrounding cities, and eventually, the entire nation. Fall of the log, Suzie Q's, and Charlie Browns are traditional jazz dance steps that are turned into a small routine by those in musical theater or street jazz theater.

Tap

Tap derives from African and European dance moves. African slaves in the 16th century imitated Irish slaves who danced jigs and combined it with West African Juba dancing.

Now, tap has an evolved style that includes its own metal-plated shoes. Combine flushes, shuffles, and flaps to create a simple routine, and use tap dancing shoes for a more pronounced sound. Rhythm tap looks better with fast jazz music, while theater jazz goes better with piano music. 

Ballet

Ballet is one of the oldest styles in the world, and it has inspired other dances, including jazz and tap. Ballet originated during the Italian Renaissance and made its way to France in the 17th century, and later Russia in the 19th century. 

This elegant type of dance requires extraordinary athleticism, precision, and grace, and is considered one of the most challenging dances to master. Pas de deux, or "step of two," is one of the most famous ballet routines, and is often performed with classical music.

Hip Hop

The newest style of dance on this list, hip hop has its roots in African American culture and was developed with hip hop music during the 1960s. Hip Hop gained popularity quickly from street competitions in the '80s and '90s.

Break dancing is a popular style where the dancer performs freestyle, sharp movements with their entire body. They may hold their legs in the air and support their body with one hand on the ground, or they may tap their feet in rhythm with similar music. 

If you're interested in learning jazz, tap, or hip hop, New York Dance Center in Chester, NY, offers a wide variety of classes for different levels of experience. They offer classes for women, children, and men of varying fitness levels who want to learn one or more of these dance styles. Call (845) 615-1433 to enroll in one of their classes or visit them online to get information on their class schedule.