Graham technique
Graham technique is a modern dance movement style and pedagogy created by American dancer and choreographer Martha Graham.[1] Graham technique is the "cornerstone" of American modern dance, and is studied worldwide.[2]
In contrast to classical ballet's emphasis on upright posture and outward ("distal") limb movements, Graham technique is based on "contraction and release" originating from the pelvic muscles, and includes dancing on the floor.[3][4] The technique also incorporates opposition between different parts of the body, which creates spirals and dramatic tension.[5] A characteristic of Graham technique is its formal, dramatic stylization of "natural" movements.[6]
Graham developed a canonical daily class for her company, which is still used (with variations) to teach her technique. The class begins with floor work, then moves to standing combinations, traveling steps, and finally jumps and leaps.[7]
See also
References
- ^ Bullock, Alan; Trombley, Stephen (1999). The Norton Dictionary of Modern Thought. W. W. Norton & Company. p. 371. ISBN 9780393046960.
- ^ "TIME 100: Martha Graham". Time. August 6, 1998. Archived from the original on 2011-07-06.
{{cite news}}: Unknown parameter|deadurl=ignored (|url-status=suggested) (help) - ^ Goethals, George R.; Sorensen, Georgia; Burns, James MacGregor (2004). Encyclopedia of leadership. Vol. 1. SAGE Publications. p. 594. ISBN 9780761925972. Retrieved 12 March 2015.
- ^ Bannerman, Henrietta (2010). "Martha Graham's House of the Pelvic Truth: The Figuration of Sexual Identities and Female Empowerment". Dance Research Journal. 42 (1): 30–45. doi:10.1017/S0149767700000814. Retrieved 12 March 2015.
- ^ Legg, Joshua (19 March 2009). "Graham Technique". DanceSpirit Magazine. Retrieved 12 March 2015.
- ^ Smith-Autard, Jacqueline M. (2010). Dance Composition. A&C Black. ISBN 9781408115640. Retrieved 12 March 2015.
- ^ Butterworth, Jo (2011). Dance Studies: The Basics. Routledge. ISBN 9781136584060. Retrieved 12 March 2015.