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What are the general classification of dance?

1. Folk Dances

* Originate from traditional customs and cultural heritage of specific regions

* Reflect the traditions, rituals, stories, and daily activities of their respective communities

* Performed during celebrations, festivals, and social gatherings

* Include dances like Bhangra (India), Flamenco (Spain), Irish Jig (Ireland), Salsa (Cuba), Kathak (India), Hula (Hawaii), Capoeira (Brazil), among others

2. Social Dances

* Designed for social interaction and fun in pairs or groups

* Typically performed at balls, parties, nightclubs, or dance halls

* Often follow set patterns, steps, and formations

* Include dances like Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Swing, Cha-Cha, Salsa, Bachata, and many more

3. Ballet

* Highly technical and disciplined form of dance

* Originated in 15th century Italy and further developed in France and Russia

* Performed by trained dancers with pointe shoes and stylized movements

* Involves complex choreography, precise techniques, and a mix of grace, strength, and elegance

* Examples include ballets like Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, and Giselle

4. Modern Dance

* An expressive and interpretive dance form that broke away from traditional ballet

* Emphasizes individual expression, emotional depth, and innovative movements

* Incorporates elements of ballet, jazz, contemporary, and folk styles

* Typically performed barefoot or with soft shoes

* Noted choreographers include Martha Graham, Merce Cunningham, Alvin Ailey, and Paul Taylor

5. Contemporary Dance

* Combines elements of modern dance, ballet, and jazz

* Allows for freedom of movement and encourages individuality

* Explores emotions, stories, and themes through a range of techniques

* Performed with bare feet or in various footwear depending on the choreographer's concept

6. Jazz Dance

* Dynamic and rhythmic dance style deeply rooted in African American culture

* Developed in the early 20th century from African tribal dances, tap dancing, and musical theater

* Incorporates complex rhythms, isolations, improvisation, and big movements

* Performed to jazz music or hip-hop, with various variations such as Broadway jazz, street jazz, and commercial jazz

These are just a few general classifications of dance, as there are innumerable styles and forms from different cultures around the world. Dance continues to evolve and fuse, creating new styles and blending traditional techniques with cutting-edge choreography.

Dancing Basics

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