Phrase

Definition

In dance, a phrase is a complete thought or movement sequence that conveys a specific idea or emotion, often consisting of a series of connected movements that flow together. Phrases are crucial in choreography as they help in structuring the overall composition and expressiveness of a dance piece, serving as building blocks for larger sequences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lester Horton emphasized the importance of phrases in his choreography, using them to convey emotional depth and narrative within his works.
2. Horton developed a technique that combined various styles, allowing dancers to explore different phrases and movement qualities.
3. Phrases in Horton's work often reflect themes of social justice and human experience, demonstrating how movement can tell powerful stories.
4. The structure of phrases can vary significantly in duration and complexity, influencing the pacing and overall feel of the dance.
5. In West Coast Modern Dance, phrases are often used to establish a sense of individuality within a collective group, showcasing each dancer's unique expression while maintaining cohesion.

Review Questions

• How do phrases function within the context of choreography, particularly in Lester Horton's work?
  • Phrases serve as the foundational elements of choreography, allowing dancers to communicate specific ideas and emotions. In Lester Horton's work, he utilized phrases to create not only visually engaging movement but also to convey deeper narratives about human experiences and social issues. By structuring his dances around distinct phrases, Horton was able to effectively highlight the emotional journey of the performers while ensuring clarity and impact in the storytelling.
• Compare the use of phrases in Lester Horton’s choreography to their use in other dance styles. What unique characteristics do they exhibit?
  • While phrases are fundamental across various dance styles for creating structure and meaning, Lester Horton’s use of phrases often integrates a blend of diverse influences and themes that reflect societal concerns. In contrast to more traditional forms that may focus primarily on aesthetic beauty, Horton’s phrases are frequently imbued with strong narratives and emotional weight. This distinctive approach allows for dynamic exploration within each phrase while maintaining a cohesive message throughout the piece.
• Evaluate how the concept of phrase contributes to the evolution of West Coast Modern Dance as compared to earlier dance forms.
  • The concept of phrase has significantly contributed to the evolution of West Coast Modern Dance by introducing new ways for dancers to express individuality while still working within an ensemble. Unlike earlier dance forms that often prioritized uniformity and strict technical precision, West Coast Modern Dance embraces the diversity of movement phrases as reflections of personal expression. This shift not only enhances the emotional depth of performances but also encourages innovative choreographic practices that challenge conventional boundaries, ultimately leading to a richer dialogue within the dance community.

Related terms

motif: A recurring theme or idea in a dance piece that can be varied or developed throughout the performance.

transition: The movement or connection between phrases that helps create fluidity and continuity in choreography.

sequence: A specific order of movements or steps that are repeated or varied to create a longer passage in a dance.