Modern Dance Moves: A Journey from Expression to Technique
When you hear the term modern dance, you might imagine something bold, expressive, and a little different from the classic ballet or upbeat jazz. And you’re not wrong! Modern dance moves are all about freedom to move, to express, and to break the rules a little.
This style was born as a rebellion against the strict techniques of classical ballet, and today, it blends emotion, creativity, and powerful technique in a way that’s totally unique.
In this article, we’ll explore what modern dance is all about, highlight some popular modern dance moves, and see how this unique style connects with both jazz and ballet.
What Is Modern Dance?
Modern dance is a super expressive and creative style of dance that breaks away from the strict rules of classical ballet. Instead of focusing on perfect posture or rigid technique, modern dance is all about feeling the movement and telling a story through your body.
The moves are usually more free-flowing and natural, often inspired by other styles like African dance, folk dance, or even ballet itself.
Modern dancers usually perform barefoot, wear simple, tight costumes to show body lines, and rely heavily on core strength and control, even though the movements look soft and effortless.
Popular Modern Dance Moves
Modern dance moves are often as unique as the dancer. But there are a few go-to modern dance moves that show up in almost every class or performance. Here are some of the most popular ones:
1. Tendu
A Tendu is a classic ballet movement often used in modern dance for warming up and building precision. In this step, you extend one leg out along the floor, keeping it completely straight, until just the tip of your toe is touching the ground.
You can do this to the front, side, or back. It may look simple, but it teaches alignment, balance, and control. Tendu helps train your body to stay engaged and centered, even in small movements.
2. Chassé
The word Chassé means “to chase” in French, and that’s exactly where one foot chases the other across the floor. It starts in a plié (a bent-knee position) and moves into a quick, low jump where both feet come together in the air before landing.
Chassé is often used to travel across the stage or add momentum into jumps and turns. It’s a fun and energetic step that feels smooth and rhythmical, and it can be combined with other movements to keep your dancing flowing.
3. Chaîné Turn
A Chaîné Turn is a series of quick turns done on two feet, usually in a straight line or semi-circle. The name means “chain” because the turns are linked together like links in a chain.
In modern dance, chaînés can be performed with a bit more freedom in the arms or body shape than in classical ballet. They’re a great way to move across the stage quickly and add drama and speed to a routine.
It takes good spotting (a technique to avoid dizziness) and coordination to pull off clean chaîné turns!
4. Arabesque
An Arabesque is one of the most iconic and graceful dance poses. The dancer stands on one leg while the other leg is extended behind, lifted as high as flexibility allows (often around 90 degrees or more), and the arms create a long, flowing line.
In modern dance, the arabesque is a perfect form about expressing emotion through line and extension. It shows off your strength, flexibility, balance, and elegance all at once. You’ll see it in both static poses and flowing movements.
5. Glissade
A Glissade means “to glide” and that’s exactly what it looks like. It’s a smooth sliding step that starts and ends in fifth position (with one foot in front of the other).
In modern dance, glissades are often used as preparation for bigger jumps or leaps, helping you transition seamlessly between steps.
Even though it’s quick and small, a well-done glissade looks effortless and light, like you’re just floating across the floor.
How Is Modern Dance Connected to Jazz and Ballet?
Modern dance, jazz, and ballet might look different on stage, but they’re actually like cousins in the dance world. In fact, modern dance took inspiration from ballet’s technique and control, but decided to loosen things up.
It focuses more on expression, emotion, and natural movement, giving dancers the freedom to move outside the strict rules of classical ballet. Meanwhile, jazz dance brings in high-energy steps like sharp turns, jumps, leaps, and those classic jazz walks, all set to fun, upbeat music.
It adds rhythm and flair that modern dance sometimes uses to spice up routines. Together, these styles help dancers become stronger, more flexible, and more expressive.
Feel the Freedom in Every Step!
Learning modern dance moves opens up a whole new world of movement. It’s a style that lets you combine raw emotion with refined skills. With roots in ballet, a flair for jazz, and a heart full of freedom, modern dance is both a creative outlet and a powerful physical journey.
Have a little one who loves to move to the music? At Rockstar Academy, our dance classes are designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and teach proper technique in a fun and supportive environment.
As a top-tier Sports & Performing Arts Academy, we offer training in various dance styles guided by passionate and professional instructors. Students also get the chance to shine on stage during our exciting Dance Recital, Elite Championships and Rock Olympics where they showcase what they’ve learned in front of family and friends.
Want to see if it’s the right fit? Come join us for a free trial class and have you dance with us!
FAQ
What are the basic movements of modern dance?
Contraction and release, fall and recovery, spiral, and floor work.
What is an example of modern dance?
A routine using expressive movements set to contemporary music, often including elements like leaps, rolls, and improvisation.
