A Lifelong Journey Through Dance: Personal Experiences and Training
Embarking on a journey through the world of dance is a unique and enriching experience. Each dance style brings a wealth of knowledge, discipline, and personal growth. This article delves into the diverse range of dance training and experiences of an individual, showcasing the impact of early training on adult endeavors.
Dance Training and Early Experiences
In my formative years, dance was a constant companion, with a deep and enduring connection to various styles. I was trained in ballet for a remarkable 17 years, still practicing weekly even now. Ballet has been a foundational dance form, shaping my physical and artistic abilities over the years. Additionally, I trained in tap dance, jazz, and hip-hop with varying degrees of success, particularly enjoying tap and jazz.
My experience in competitive dance is extensive, having participated in 82 competitive events with 62 first-place wins. This rich mix of dance training has not only honed my skills but also fostered a passion for continual learning and improvement.
Exploring New Dance Styles in Adulthood
As I matured, my dance training and experiences evolved. In my late teens, I committed to ballet for 10 years, later adding modern dance for a brief period during my 20s. Tap dancing, once a regular part of my repertoire, resurfaced in my 60s, and I now take classes twice to three times a week. My instructor, a 80-year-old Russian from the Joffrey Ballet Company, taught me the importance of precision and discipline.
In my more recent years, I have sampled a wide array of social dance styles, including salsa, rumba, East Coast swing, cha-cha, American bachata, waltz, standard, smooth, Viennese waltz, foxtrot, tango, standard night club 2-step, quickstep, samba, west coast swing, hustle, merengue, and even belly dance. While I might not consider myself formally trained in all these styles, the preparatory work from my ballet training has proven invaluable.
Adapting to Change and Continual Growth
The journey through various dance styles has been a dynamic one, incorporating a wide spectrum of experiences. Each style brings a unique set of challenges and rewards. For instance, belly dancing was a discovery during my time in Turkey, providing a wonderful way to maintain physical fitness. Returning to tap after a long hiatus further demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit in dance.
My early years of training in contemporary and ballet have provided a robust foundation, making it easier to adapt to new and diverse dance styles in adulthood. The precision and discipline learned during those early years have proven to be transferable skills that continue to benefit my modern dance endeavors.
Conclusion
Through a lifetime of dance, from the disciplined forms of ballet and tap to the freedom of contemporary and belly dance, the journey is ongoing. Each dance style offers a unique perspective and a chance for personal growth. This article aims to inspire others to explore the world of dance and embrace the lifelong learning and growth that it entails.