For dancers, taking class is like studying the Bible. In the same way Christians should continuously study the Word and pray, dancers should continuously study technique. It is how you stay in shape, maintain and improve technique. Because absolute perfection in any dance technique is practically unattainable, there is no dancer at any stage in his or her training or career who does not benefit from taking class regularly. Preferably everyday.
With that said, I have to admit that my consistency since leaving the structure of school has been inconsistent at best. There are months where I'm in class three or four times weekly and those where I show my face twice the entire month.
I admire my peers who have the discipline and drive to show up everyday, no matter what, almost to a fault because let's face it, sometimes your body really does need a rest.
Part of my lack of motivation has to do with me spending the last 16 months trying to figure out what I'm going to do with my life. Be a dancer, yes I know. I want to perform, but I also want to be choreographing and want to be teaching. I have essentially been trying to recreate my life in grad school in NYC and get paid for it. So far so good.
Except every minute I have free that I don't spend in class, or planning choreography projects, or figuring out how to get my teaching game up, I feel guilty. Like I'm a waste. Like I'm abusing this gift of time. The "Go to class or you Fail" rules of school have translated to "Go to class or you Fail in life."
What I know for sure is that I love to dance, and if that is really true I will do so as much as possible. So in this very public forum I am attempting to hold myself accountable and instill some sense of discipline.
I, Sydnie Liana Mosley, do solemnly swear to take class 3-4 times per week.
As an added bonus, I'll keep you update on what classes I'm taking and where, and perhaps share something I took away from the class.
So far this week I took Ballet with Graciela Kozak at Peridance. It was my first time with her, though I've been taking class there for over a year and a half. It was just the kick in the pants I needed. I'll be back again today. :)
3 comments:
Go, Sydnie! I miss the days of signing up for a class for a semester and having the regularity of daily class that's already signed up for and paid. These days I don't dance, but I have the same problem with running or exercising. If I'm not signed for a class, I don't go. I don't know what the solution is... so I'm eager to see if accountability to the blogosphere helps. I'll keep reading. ;)
Ally, I hope the accountability in the blogosphere works too. Maybe it will inspire you to get moving regularly too? :)
Here's hoping! :)
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