Composition Classes

DANC 2241: Dance Composition I
Introduction to the fundamental elements of dance composi-­ tion, including Laban-­based movement vocabulary, dynamics, motivation, gesture, spatial concepts, elementary phrasing, abstraction and motif writing. Students participate in solo and small-­group studies with an emphasis on improvisation. Course includes visit to the Dallas Museum of Art. Required for the B.F.A. in dance performance. Prerequisite: DANC 1242.

DANC 2242: Dance Composition II
Generation of solo movement through improvisation;; recognizing spontaneous structures;; and working with stage space, groups and inspiration from other media, including music. Required for the B.F.A. in dance performance. Prerequisites: DANC 2241 and 2361 or instructor approval.

DANC 3243: Dance Composition III
Exploration of elements of choreographic form with emphasis on sequencing, balance, phrasing, transition, choreographic device and composi-­ tional structure. Introduction to Life FormsTM computer software for choreography. Utilization of videotape for self-­analysis and critique. Opportunity for visits to the Meadows Museum for the study of form. Required for the B.F.A. in dance performance. Prerequisite: DANC 2242.

DANC 3244: Dance Composition IV
This course will focus on developing site-­specific works, collaborating with musicians, service-­learning projects and the development of skills necessary for successful entry into the professional arena, such as resume writing, networking and auditioning. Required for the B.F.A. in dance performance. Prerequisite: DANC 3243.