I am constantly looking for music for teaching dance classes… when I teach at MG School, Ailey School or master class, we usually have accompanists. When I took my first modern dance class( it was Graham technique class) at the Ailey school, I was blown away with taking class with live music. I was in heaven.
In Japan, my dance teacher always used LP records. Yes LP records. not CD, nor MD, nor casette tape… But that was nice too. I loved looking at the record cover. Most of the times it were jazz music and some classical music. That is right, she did not have any modern dance music…
After getting used to have live music, I realized how important to have a live music for dance classes. Musci could change movement, mood, dynamics and music itself is a creation too. A lot of ballet classes around NYC are with an accompanist. and it is so nice to take and watch.
Dance training is a hard repetitious training, but having good music makes completely different way to look at.

When I teach, if I have to use recorded music, I use few cds. Geoffrey Armes’s “Habibi Stretch and Breathe” is one of the most used in my class. He is one of THE BEST in NY that means one the best in the world!! I love teaching classes when he is playing for me. It makes difference. It is important for me to have a steady and clear rhythm since I teach beginners a lot. It is interesting to see when dancers start thinking about shapes or use of mascle in the body, a lot of time they forget music. Or simply ears are closed…may be? Coordination is very important. to gain it, music have to be very clear for them to hear. So I use this cd a lot.
Recentrly Geoffrey sent me his new cd! I am in heaven! Beacuse I have been using his Habibi Stretch and Breathe but for a long time. and now new one(s)!

I listened. Sit on the floor and play.

“Spirit Dwelling” and “Stretch and Breathe 2/Berlin Dance works”
Geoffrey’s music becomes a collaborative partner to you. With his deep understanding of the dance movement, its dynamics, complex rhythms and relationship with breath, he will take you somewhere not just a dance studio.
Great for dance classes and yoga classes. or just streching in your living space…

I am going to Japan in the end of December and will teach two places in Tokyo area, and I am very excited to use this new ones for my classes!!! Of course it will be so nice to have him with me in Japan but …

Last year, Kristin organized what people recommend for Xmas present. I wonder if she is doing it this year? I defenitely put these two cds for that. Also I still really like the book I recommended last year too…What do you think?

well I did not do Xmas shopping yet this year, I have to run now!