JAZZ AT PINEAPPLE

Jazz dance emphasises a strong technical foundation that enables a dancer to focus on the stylistic and performance aspects of dance. Technique is essential for leaps and turns, where correct posture is essential to properly execute such moves. Also, jazz dancers strong and sharp movements are greatly aided by a good background in ballet technique. However, while ballet movement emphasises the upbeat of music, jazz dance emphasizes the downbeat.

Center control is important in jazz technique. The body's centre is the focal point from which all movement emanates, thus making it possible to maintain balance while executing powerful movements.

Spotting is important as a turning technique as well. This technique enables a dancer to execute pirouettes and fouetté's without becoming dizzy.

Jazz classes require some form of moderate intensity stretching in order to warm up the muscles and help prevent injuries. Some techniques used in the warm-up consist of elongating leg muscles and strengthening the core.

Most jazz dancers wear leather jazz shoes, coloured either black or beige, to help them move smoothly when executing turns (e.g. pirouette).

To join in a class, you only need be ready 10 minutes before the class starts. If you have Pineapple membership, you do not need to pay at reception.