Dance 272FD - Dance and Culture: 'Funk Styles'

This course introduces students to funk dance styles such as Locking, Popping, and Breaking. We will examine the evolution of African American music and its relationship to what's happening historically in the U.S. Students will learn the terminology and rhythmic patterns of each dance form and how to find their own relationship to the movement. This class will focus on becoming grounded in the basics through technique drills and combinations. There will be many sessions where the students can freestyle using the foundation they've learned and incorporating their own uniqueness to the movement. The study of music and movement and will take form in research. Through books, scholarly journals, and documentaries, the students will discuss and take notes of the many artists and pioneers of the form.