Preparing for your First Dance – Understanding the Music
By Mandi Gould Learning to dance is an essential part of Wedding Day preparations. It’s important that you select a song that is both romantic but also appropriate to dance to.
Select a Wedding Dance Song with a clear beat. When choosing your song, be sure that you identify and follow the beat. At Wedding Dance Planner we recommend music that follows the tradition of old jazz standards with a clearly defined 8 count.
Listen for the 8 count. Most dance-appropriate music can be broken down in 8 counts. Be conscious of the ‘1’ in the music and become comfortable counting out the beat.
If you have a musical background you’ll be aware of the bars of the music which are structured in 4 counts -- as dancers it’s most practical to combine 2 bars and form an 8 count.
Exceptions to the 8 count structure include a Waltz and some world music. A musical consultation is recommended.
Keep it simple and elegant. There are slow steps and quick steps. A slow step is in half time and moves only on every other beat, always on the odd beats -- 1, 3, 5, 7. Quick steps move on both odds and evens – 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Become familiar with your Wedding Dance Song. Listen to your song as much and as many times as possible. Does it have different sections? Is there an instrumental break? Can you identify a clear climax in the song? Softer moments? How long is it? You should get to know your song like the back of your hand so that there are no surprises.
If you’re having a live band play for you try to get a recording of their version of the song, or ask them to stick to the original recording as much as possible, at least in the instrumental structure, so that you don’t have any major surprises.
By taking the time to understand the music, you’ll be better able to follow the beat and communicate with your partner on the dance floor. You’ll feel more relaxed and be better able to enjoy your First Dance together with your partner.
(c) Mandi Gould
About The Author
Mandi Gould makes it easy and stress-free to prepare for your First Dance together on your Wedding Day. For wedding dance tips and articles or to receive a First Dance Mini Course visit http://www.weddingdanceplanner.com
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