09.06.09 / Audition, Ballet, Dance, Dance Lessons, Dance Studio, dance class, hip hop, jazz dancing, recital, summer camp / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
We applaud all our dancers – from the tiniest 2 year old to the 50 year old dancer – everyone is a star in my studio! Recital is just around the corner. Our performance is June 27 at Higley Performing Arts Center. Dancers & backstage Moms, here is another list to make your backstage experience awesome:
1. Don’t pull focus – when a dancer is onstage performing, don’t walk in the aisles, switch seats, talk loudly in the wings…. in other words, respect the dancer who is rehearsing/performing on stage. Whether they are performing Classical Ballet or a hot Jazz routine, whether they are a beginning student or an accomplished entertainer, let’s support their efforts.
2. Do be a role model – AS a backstage mom/dresser, it’s obvious that you have our dancers’ best interest at heart.. But the dancers – even the teens- are still kids. It’s up to you to model what’s right. They look up to you, and even when you think they are not watching, they probably are! Teach the kids the spirit of service you are so generously portraying by volunteering to work backstage. By the way – did I say THANK YOU? – well, THANK YOU!
3. Do be prepared – I entered one of our studio rooms the other day and our Ballet Mistress had written this on the white board, “Performance rule – It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” So true. As a dancer or backstage MOM, be prepared with bobby pins, safety pins, extra tights, lipstick, hairspray……Remember – this is the opportunity for our students to shine!
We have the absolute best support team of dance MOMS, ever! Come see for yourself – you will be amazed – at how incredibly smooth are our picture days, rehearsal days, & performance days. When we show our dance families respect, they thank us for it – and guess what, they give it right back to us!
27.04.09 / Audition, Ballet, Dance, dance class, hip hop, jazz dancing, summer camp / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
Hip Hop Vs. Lyrical Hip Hop
By Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
Just when we thought Hip Hop had nothing more to offer…along comes LYRICAL HIP HOP & CONTEMPORARY Dance. You may have seen this style on shows like, “So You Think You Can Dance” and “America’s Best Dance Crew”. This fresh style of dance is tearing up the convention/performance scene and you can learn how to do it at my studio, Wagner Dance & Music!
Jazz and Ballet dancers find this style of dance to be a smooth transition from their structured technical classes. The choreography, a mix of slow moves, hard stops, robot-like isolations and dramatic collapses is created to bring the message of the song to life. Dancers react to the lyrics and emotion to produce a powerful performance.
Mucho Drama Aqui!
This popular style of dance combines hip hop choreography and contemporary inspired steps that tell a story. At Wagner Dance Arts, we offer explosive classes with the valley’s top choreographers. Come see for yourself –
If you like to MOVE IT-MOVE IT-
Stop by our studio and see what we have to offer – our new schedule is at www.wagnerdancearts.com and Auditions are set for May 15!!
22.04.09 / Audition, Dance, Dance Lessons, camp, dance class, sing, summer camp / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
Do you have your child enrolled in dance class? Are you wondering what you can do to support their love of dance? In the last blog I mentioned how you encourage your child to practice, stretch….. Today let’s talk about little known tips to get the most out of your child’s lessons. After all, money doesn’t grow on trees and we all want value for our dollar.
Placement is so very important. Your child may learn best when they are the, “head of the class”. Some children actually function best and learn best while teaching others who may not be as experienced or as old. Other children are the complete opposite – they want to be challenged and challenged with the best of them.
At my studio, Wagner Dance & Music, we evaluate and place children so they are able to perform at their top level. We encourage parents to ask questions, get involved and get the most out of your dance education. Here are a few more tips on dance and taking dance class:
1. Listen to music. Provide your child with a variety of music styles. Let them listen to everything from Broadway Show Tunes to Classical Variations to Hip Hop Funk.
2. Proper attire. Make sure your child has the proper dance clothing and dance shoes. Your dance studio will be able to help you understand the requirements for each class. Dress like a dancer, dance like a dancer.
3. Performance time is the time to shine. Once your child has attended their classes, worked hard, practiced their routine and prepared for stage. Sit back and enjoy the talent that has been created. Tell your child how proud you are of their accomplishments.
4. Make friends. It is great to have friends who share the same interests. Dance friends love to dance together, practice new moves and choreograph. Dancing together increases creativity, team work and friendship.
21.04.09 / Audition, Dance, Dance Studio, dance class, summer camp / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
You may be new to dance lessons for your child, so I have some tips to make sure you and your child reap the benefits dance has to offer. In the last blog I mentioned how important it is to communicate with the instructor. Here are a few more tips for you to encourage your child. With your support I know your child will become the, “cream of the crop” in the dance scene!
1. Change placement within the class. Even though we like to stand in the same location for each class, it is great to switch it up a bit. Standing next to a dancer you think is awesome will help your technique. Help your child understand this strategy.
2. Practice. In between classes remind your child to rehearse what has been taught. Practicing choreography throughout the week will improve your child’s dancing, impress the instructor, and inspire other students.
3. Stretch. Help your child understand the importance of stretching on a daily basis. A great time to practice the learned stretches is right before bed
By the way, this summer we are offering AWESOME dance camps for your child to enjoy. We have everything from Princess Fairy Camp……Hip Hop Boot Camp…Hannah Montana Camp and more and more. Check it all out at our website: www.wagnerdancearts.com.
By Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
20.04.09 / Audition, Dance, Dance Studio, camp, dance class, summer camp / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
How Your Child Can Get the Most Out of Dance Lessons
by Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
Congratulations on taking the steps to discover the wonderful world of dance. Here are a few tips to make sure your child has a positive and productive dance experience.
1. Arrive early. Get to your dance studio 10 minutes before the start of your class. This will allow your child time to stretch and get prepared for instruction.
2. Ask questions. Encourage your child to be certain they understand the instructor and understand what is being taught. Feel free to let the instructor know if the steps are not clear to your child.
3. Speak to the instructor. If you or your child has questions about what is being taught, ask for the appropriate time to speak with the instructor.
At my Dance & Music studio we encourage children to be the best they can be. The positive environment we offer will make every child smile and enjoy their dance or music lesson. I know that is a bold statement, but well, I’m bold and so is my staff. We have simply, hands down, the best group of instructors in the entire valley! I am so proud to be the Artistic Director of such a talented team of individuals. You just gotta meet them!
Come by the studio any time – remember – we have upcoming May 15 Auditions and we offer AMAZING summer dance camps!
Visit our website: www.wagnerdancearts.com
20.04.09 / Audition, Ballet, Dance Education, Dance Studio, dance class / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
In celebration of National Dance Week which is April 24 through May 3, let’s enjoy more dance quotes from famous movers who helped bring the world closer to dance. Enjoy….
Movement never lies. It is a barometer telling the state of the soul’s weather to all who can read it. -Martha Graham
Dance is the only art in which we ourselves are the stuff of which it is made. -Ted Shawn
Learning to walk set you free. Learning to dance gives you the greatest freedom of all: to express with your whole self the person you are. -Melissa Hayden
It takes an athlete to dance, but an artist to be a dancer. -Shanna LaFleur
If you want to dance seriously, do. You must think about it day and night, dream about it,–desire it. -Christa Justus
The dance is the mother of the arts. Music and poetry exist in time; painting and architecture in space. But the dance lives at once in time and space. -Curt Sachs
People tend to look at dancers like we are these little jewels, little cardboard cut-outs, and yet we have blood and guts and go through Hell. Susan Jaffe
Someone once said that dancers work just as hard as policemen, always alert, always tense, but see policemen don’t have to be beautiful at the same time. -George Balanchine
The trained dancer must not only have grace and elegance, but also the leap of an Olympic hurdler, the balance of a tight-rope walker and panther-like strength and agility. -Camilla Jessel
At my studio, Wagner Dance & Music, we celebrate dance and other performing arts every week. Check out website:www.wagnerdancearts.com for the latest dance education events. On May 15 we are holding Auditions for our Dance Elite Performance Team. We want talented dancers ages 5-18 to join in the fun and create and awesome, amazing dance experience.
See You At The Studio – Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
19.04.09 / Audition, Dance, Dance Education, Dance Lessons, Dance Studio, jazz dancing, singing lessons / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
At my Dance & Music studio I am often asked questions about various styles of dancing. Dance is a lot like music in that the styles sometimes melt into each other and the detail of each discipline is not always seen by the novice performer. Here is a list of Jazz Dance Styles – this list will help you choose the style best suited for you or your child.
1. Classic Jazz: A blend of traditional dance elements that link together. Dancing over and between the downbeats of the music is a key technique. The style uses grounded positioning and various dance disciplines. This approach to dance was developed by early innovators of this classic style. Jack Cole, Gus Giordano, Bob Fosse & Luigi are famous for bringing Jazz dancing to the audiences and moving this style to the forefront of dance education.
2. Lyrical Jazz: A fluid style that blends movements from American modern dance, classic jazz, and European classical ballet. Also called, “Contemporary”, this style interprets lyrics through choreography. The performer has freedom of expression to interpret the style of music. This is a very popular style of dance seen at performances & competitions.
3. Musical Theatre Dance: A stylized form of dance that uses music, movement, comedy & narrative to support its style. A character is often portrayed as this style is used in Broadway Shows and other staged events. Also known as song & dance.
4. Hip-Hop: A huge umbrella term for many styles of dance. Also known as street dance, this style incorporates popping, locking, and break-dancing (old school). A mixture of movements from anywhere, anytime are known as, “new school”. Popular music (rap, funk, rhythm & blues, techno….) are incorporated to produce this ever popular folk dance.
At Wagner Dance & Music, we offer all these dance styles, and many more. Come and explore the world of performing arts and be prepared to, “bust a move.” Audition on May 15 for our Dance Elite Performance Team. See you at the studio!
By Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
16.04.09 / Audition, Dance, Dance Lessons, Dance Studio, dance class, sing, summer camp / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
At my dance studio, Wagner Dance & Music, we teach all ages including little, bitty, pretty ones. It is amazing how 3 year old dancers take creativity to the unimaginable levels.
A dancer’s carriage is easy identifiable. Young dancers take on the beautiful presentation of a polished performer. As dancers, we experience ourselves at a deep level, and it is demonstrated in our sense of who we are. It’s not just the training our bodies never forget, it’s the discipline and purpose with which dance is learned that leaves a lasting impression. We simply do not clunk through life, we dance through it!
One day I as I watched my students put on their street shoes and head towards the door, I realized that they are leaving with a set of skills that go beyond a simple plie or grand jete. They are carrying with them something rare and precious – the gift of dance.
Join me at the studio and give yourself or your child a gift to cherish – DANCE! For more information email me at info@wagnerdancearts.com.
Happy Dancing from Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
30.03.09 / Audition, Ballet, Dance, Dance Education, Dance Studio, recital / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
By Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
Dancers, here is a tip for you.
To learn developpes devant, lie on the floor on your back with your legs crossed as though your feet are in fifth position and with both feet fully stretched. Draw the working foot through coup-de-pied to the passe (retire) position. Then, leading with the heel, extend to attitude devant, returning the leg to fifth position by reversing the movement. Practice developpe to second from this position as well. It is easier to feel the correct position of the hips.
Now, if you are not a classically trained dancer, I realize you don’t know what I’m talking about. Let’s just say, “It sounds French to you”. As you know, classical ballet is taught in French. At my studio the ballet instructors use the Vagonova technique and they produce beautiful dancers with strong technique. You can visit us online at www.wagnerdancearts.com and get more information about Ballet training. We also offer everything from Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap…you name it. We even teach 3 year old combination classes!
Now, back to your tip –
Tip #2 for developpes
Once you are strong enough to perform a correct developpe (lifting the leg higher than 90 degrees and maintaining proper turnout), you can do the same exercise while standing. Be careful not to lock the hip when passing through passe position. Use the inside thigh muscle while unfolding the leg. Lift the leg smoothly. Flexibility, control, and strength are required for developpes. Kicking the leg high – like in the Rockettes, kick line – is easy, maintaining a high leg – not so simple.
Make sure you are training with educated, qualified instructors. To learn from the best, visit my website and we’ll see you in class!
Happy Dancing!
27.03.09 / Audition, Ballet, Dance, Dance Education, dance class, recital / Author: webmaster / Comments: (0)
by Denise Wagner, Artistic Director
I often think about how my students take their dancer identity into the world beyond dance. Dance students at studios like mine are a lot like college athletes-most will become professionals in something other than dance. For most children today, dance is something they choose to explore on their way to successful careers. Few are actually fortunate enough to become professional dancers.
Even though students may not dance professionally, some part of them will always be a dancer. They will always walk and move as a dancer. Grace is very hard to unlearn. Go ahead – I dare you – try to be clumsy. It’s just not possible if you are a dancer. I remember my aging ballet teacher years after she had stopped dancing. She still radiated elegance and grace and moved like a whisper across the floor.
Grace goes deeper than the skin.
A dancer’s carriage is easy identifiable. As dancers, we experience ourselves at a deep level, and it is demonstrated in our sense of who we are. It’s not just the training our bodies never forget, it’s the discipline and purpose with which dance is learned that leaves a lasting impression. We simply do not clunk through life, we dance through it!
One day I as I watched my students put on their street shoes and head towards the door, I realized that they are leaving with a set of skills that go beyond a simple plie or grand jete. They are carrying with them something rare and precious – the gift of dance.
Join me at the studio and give yourself or your child a gift to cherish – DANCE! For more information email me at info@wagnerdancearts.com.
Happy Dancing.
1. Don’t pull focus – when a dancer is onstage performing, don’t walk in the aisles, switch seats, talk loudly in the wings…. in other words, respect the dancer who is rehearsing/performing on stage. Whether they are performing Classical Ballet or a hot Jazz routine, whether they are a beginning student or an accomplished entertainer, let’s support their efforts.
