Experiential Anatomy in Dance Technique DVD

The more dancers know their bodies, the more accomplished they can become. Experiential Anatomy in DanceTechnique: Eight Skeletal Explorations will help instructors develop class material that allows their students to improve their understanding of their bodies—and their ability to make educated choices about their movements while becoming more dynamic and versatile dancers.

This DVD offers a basic understanding of human anatomy for instructors and students who have not had any anatomy or kinesiology courses. At the same time, it offers those who have had or do teach anatomy courses an opportunity for a deeper investigation and review of anatomical structures and how those structures affect movement.

Experiential Anatomy in Dance Technique explores eight body areas: shoulder joint; scapula; hip joint; knee joint; spine; rib cage; tibia and fibula; and ankle, tarsus, and toes. For each area, the DVD features an instructor who

• identifies skeletal and anatomical features using a model skeleton,

• leads students in locating the anatomical features on themselves or on a partner,

• demonstrates movement explorations focusing on that body area, and

• choreographs phrases that explore that particular body area.

The DVD contains lessons with phrases and exercises for each body area. Instructors can choose any body part and select any part of the lesson plan at any time. The DVD also includes a tutorial on getting the most out of the DVD, alternative camera angles, commentary on how and why the phrases were created to promote greater anatomical understanding, and PDFs with suggested readings to enhance understanding.

Experiential Anatomy in Dance Technique is a great tool for instructors, dancers, choreographers, and others interested in dance. Its detailed instruction and exploration of the body will help instructors enliven their classes, resulting in students’ learning to make intelligent decisions about how to train and move.

Jennifer Salk, MFA, is an associate professor at the University of Washington, where she teaches modern dance technique, composition, improvisation, and other dance courses. She is an accomplished choreographer, creating and reconstructing performances for several companies. She has also served as a guest artist in numerous residences and at workshops.

Salk has also authored scholarly works and presented at National Dance Association and other conferences. She has received grants and awards for her excellence in teaching from the University of Washington and from the University of South Florida.