The key elements of jazz music are syncopation, individual style, and improvisation. The original jazz dancing carried these same elements. Syncopation is what gives jazz music and dancing its edge and excitement. It is not monotonous and dry. Changes happen often and are unexpected. Sudden.
The various styles of jazz dance have grown from the emphasis
on individual style and improvisation. As seen in the hip-hop dancers of today, jazz dance emphasizes individual expression. Each teacher, dancer, and choreographer brings a unique style into the mix. Conformity is frowned upon
What about Hip Hop?
The dancing represents body movements that go with the beat and rhythm of hip hop music. There is breaking, popping, locking, and free styling in hip hop dances. The jumps, breakages, and rotations in the movements are combined in such a way that
the dance style becomes an informal and explosive one.
