Bellydance Drills and Choreography's topics - tribe.net

Practicing zills

Silver Fox — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 04:18:07 GMT

I just noticed an earlier post asking for help in identifying zill patterns. I've got a book that does that and a cd that demos. but the demos are so short that I can't effectively practice to them. By the time I start to get it, the demo is over. What I would like is to find a "set" of songs that someone would correlate zill patterns. That is, to say, okay if you go to itunes, here are 10 songs and here are the zill patterns you should be able to play against those songs. I would happily pay to download and practice, practice, practice. As a beginner, I have a great deal of difficulty knowing when to play what pattern! Help????

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 4 replies

What to consider in choreographing a duet?

Margaret — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:49:00 GMT

Should people be paired based on matching height, body type, or similarity of movement execution? What makes an interesting and well-done duet in Tribal fusion? I've always done groups and now it's time to make duets and I want them to be outstanding!
Margaret

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 9 replies

Help T.T

+Pandora+ — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:33:42 GMT

Alright, so i have a preformance (my first one) this sunday. And I am sort of freaking out because i feel that my dance is stiff and nervous. Do you girls use anything to calm down or loosen up you dance moves? I am a wreck right now! I mean I usually look good in class and i can do a dance if i dont think about it. Right now i cant even remeber well the dance moves when im actually dancing. Maybe I might need to change the song?I need some Zen in me! Help! Im sure all of you girls have went through nerves. Any suggestions?

Pandora

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 1 reply

Beginners' Drills

loruh — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:45:10 GMT

Good morning! Well, I still consider myself a beginner because I only started belly dancing classes last summer, and had never taken any dance classes before. It has been a learning experience for sure! Anyway, I have a small list of drills that I like to do when I practice at home (including the drills I have learned in the basics class I have attended). But I was just curious what you all would recommend! I am looking for a variety to add to what I already do. Thanks!!! :-)

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 7 replies

Why am I so dizzy???

TrueLeah — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 07:32:36 GMT

I have a serious problem with being to dizzy when I dance. I love to spin around when I dance and 9 years ago when I danced continuously I didn't have this problem. Especially during my veil part when I have to contunuously spin to keep the veil flying. I have experience in dancing, and I know how to spot when I spin. This isn't the problem. Even though I spot I still loose my balance and almost fall! What can I do to help this??

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 17 replies

Planning an Improvisation Skills DVD: tell me what you want (plus a prize drawing)

Nadira — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:15:38 GMT

Hi everybody,

This information is cross-posted to a couple of other places, so sorry if you hear this twice!

BACKGROUND INFO YOU CAN SKIP IF YOU'RE NOT INTERESTED:

If any of you have seen Taktaba, my video podcast, you may have noticed that it has been a while since the last episode. Well, it's going to be a little while longer before Episode 4 is released, but luckily, it's for a really exciting reason.

I've been reviewing the (incredibly encouraging and constructive) feedback from Taktaba viewers, and have decided that it's time to split the project into two different and complementary efforts: Taktaba Foundations and Taktaba Details. Taktaba Details will continue the podcast's mission to explore individual elements of space, shape, time, and energy to give you new ideas for your choreography and improvisation. Taktaba Foundations will deal with the bigger picture: HOW to choreograph and HOW to improvise.

TELL ME WHAT YOU WANT IN AN IMPROVISATION SKILLS VIDEO:

I'll be kicking off the Taktaba Foundations project with my first instructional video: Taktaba Foundations Volume 1: Improvisation Toolkit. This video will include a series of exercises that will help dancers of all levels build the skills they need to improvise
with confidence. Teachers can also use these tools to help students break their dependence on choreography and jump-start the process of building their own personal styles. (Not that I'm against choreography, but I believe that using it should always be a choice, not a crutch.)

But I need your help: I have a lot of ideas about how to improvise, but I want to hear about what you need: what do you want to know about improvisation? What would be most useful to you? How would you like the DVD to be structured?

If you have any ideas, requests, or other questions, you can share them in my online survey at:
http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB227Y7UEUN3X

PRIZE DRAWING:

To thank you for your input, I'll be raffling off a copy of the Belly Dancing for Fortune and Fame CD, which has all the music used on the Taktaba podcasts to date, including the Taktaba theme song, Sala Sala. To be entered in the drawing, you must submit your survey (answering all questions and including your name and contact info) by noon eastern time on Tuesday, July 1st, 2008. (Note: this is NOT limited to US residents!)

Thanks for your help!

Nadira

Nadira Jamal
Belly Dancer
nadira@nadirajamal.com
http://www.nadirajamal.com
http://www.taktaba.com (the video podcast blog)

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 7 replies

I take dance class??... no... I'm a bellydancer.

Basha — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 18:26:21 GMT

So, for lack of a better place to ask this question, and given that most people who visit this particular tribe are consistent dancers/performers, I'll ask here.

You know those days when you first started dancing because it looked fun, or it was good for your health or wow, I want to be able to do that... ok. Then all the sudden you find kuchi every where, your sword is on the back of your favorite chair so you can grab it for a quick ten or fifteen minute practice and you nowspeak a new language that has no words.

At what point have you stopped taking bellydance class and become a bellydancer? Sometimes I wonder if I'm still pretending and/or overreaching myself to say I'm a bellydancer... do I have to be good enough to say that I'm a bellydancer? How many years have I had to have been dancing before I'm a dancer? Is it a number or a feeling or an amount of workshops or events that I've attended... like I said sometimes I feel like I just pretend and I'll never be a 'real' bellydancer! What do ya'll think!

* Sorry, if it isn't really appropriate for here, I couldn't think of a better place to ask in the myriad of my tribes! *

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 53 replies

Choreography vs. Improvising

Tisha Leigh — Sun, 25 May 2008 20:13:00 GMT

I am just curious to know if most of you who perform on a regular basis use choreography, or do you just "wing it" and do improv? An old teacher of mine said that everyone uses choreography, and she seemed kind of against the idea of doing improv. My personal belief is that it's good to be able to do both. I have always learned choreographies from the teachers I've danced with, and I like doing choreographed dances, but I wonder what does a dancer do if she's dancing to a live musician, for example, and the music is slightly different than what she's used to practicing to? It seems to me that she would have to do a little improvising. I have yet to dance to a live musician, and this thought always occurred to me. Have any of you ever gotten a little stuck in this way, and if so, what did you do?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 33 replies

how will my belly change?

Charlsie — Thu, 29 May 2008 15:48:29 GMT

this may seem like a silly question, but.. will bellydancing stretch out the skin on my belly? i've just started, and i'm quite thin. and belly rolls are hard for me, i have some muscle but not much curve and whenever i practice i feel like my skin is streching slightly. is this something that is supposed to happen? i'm just wondering and a little concerned, bc i could care less if my butt were the size of texas, i'd like my tummy to stay trim.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 19 replies

Dance and your Brain

Petra — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:47:23 GMT

For anyone who is interested in the neuro-workings behind dance, this is an interesting article from Scientific American magazine.

"Recent brain-imaging studies reveal some of the complex neural choreography behind our ability to dance."

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=the-neuroscience-of-dance&sc=SA_20080616

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 3 replies

Visual

+Pandora+ — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 05:54:18 GMT

Alright so I have this problem, I am a visual person. I have a hard time learning the choreography and the moves listening on how to do it. I dont know why...people find it easy that way but it just makes it harder...now if i see my lovely teacher and make an eye contact with her i can do exactly what she does and better. I just cant think when I dance i have to feel it. Does anyone have the same problem? Or something Similar? I know there are people who have a better time hearing or feeling. Is there a way to better this?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 6 replies

Footwork Challenged?

Faedra — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:59:35 GMT

I've posted about this before but I'm really stuck! I am completely footwork challenged. I have no trouble with isolations and basic walking with various circles, slides, 8's, and lift/drops but my footwork is pretty pathetic. I can't seem to get my feet to understand how to keep on beat and change direction without tripping myself up! What can I do? *trips and falls down* Bellydancer down, help!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 5 replies

Karslima - step or dance?

Michele — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:31:55 GMT

OK, in a workshop (and in class but under a different name), I learned a step called a "karslima".

But after reading some other posts and doing some research, I'm finding that there might actually be a DANCE called the Karslima or Turkish Karslima......

Is it a step? A dance? Or both?

I'm rather confused at the moment.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 11 replies

Scoop & Squeze

Julie — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 09:11:51 GMT

So I do yoga and have had a lordodic back all my life... which means cronic low back pain. Well I took this pilaties (sorry I cant spell) class and she taught us to "scoop and squeze". Which basical asks you to engage the lower abs and glutes. This was awsome for my back, posture, and balance. Though a little difficult to maintaine. Anyway. I was tring to incorporate this into my dance, realizing it is a key part of proper dance posture, and it was very difficult. How are you suppost to do a belly roll or a reverse belly roll if your lower abs are already engaged?

Thanks ahead of time for all your help ladies
Juls

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 8 replies

changing up the routine for the class-it's influence

Nicole — Thu, 08 May 2008 00:26:26 GMT

Hello Dancers-
I have taught Belly Dance for the last 3 plus years ( Turkish& Egyptian/ American Style) and I taking notice of a dance/drill dynamic.
One is; most students love a warm up routine that they know well- knowthe music- feel safe within the rhythmical map.
I too loved this in my budding stages of dance.
For the first year of studying Bellydance- I thought THE only recording on the planet of Bellydance music was an antquited( albeit, much loved )Mary Ellen Donald mix. Our beloved teacher did teach us an amazing amount with just one tape.
The students in my area- do not get much of a chance to experience other teachers. ( Demographically challenged are we..) but I really try to expose them to way more than one CD or tape...and other teachers ,if I can swing it.
The two bookends of a class for me, are the warm up and the cool down.
Students all learn at a different rate-and in my intermediate class it seems like some students would do well with knowing a "recipie"
others do well with lots of fresh material & musical changes.
How often do you change material of your warm up / cool downs?
How often do you change the music/material for drills?
Nicole*

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 5 replies

Zill patterns..... need to know where to 'hear" them!

Tarah Van Wyk — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:32:30 GMT

Hi...know there has been lots on zill patterns before, but my teacher has assigned us the task of finding out what the waidi /whaidi (sp?) and Mamoud/ mahmoud (sp?) pattern's are to take and show her in class next week... if you can help me by pointing me in the direction of sites that can help, and even better can demonstrate so I can actually hear the beats I would be highly appreciative!

Much thanks
Tarah

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 6 replies

Nanna teaches Belly Dance at Shoebox Studio’s in SF

Nanna — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 20:38:43 GMT

Tuesday nights 7:30 – 9:00

A Multilevel Class in Cabaret Belly Dance with an earthy & unique style.
Define your movements and discover an approach to solo dance with an understanding and acknowledgement of Arabic origins and traditional music.

Shoebox Studio is centrally located in Downtown San Francisco, on Folsom St. between 4th and 5th St. Shoebox is a few short blocks from Powell Bart/Muni Station

855 Folsom St. Suite 112
San Francisco, Ca 94107
Phone: 415.861.5976
http://www.shoeboxsf.com/index.html

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

Good Back/Shoulder stretches?

Faedra — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:16:28 GMT

I'm new to bellydancing and I've just recently began learning snake arms. I seem to have a lot of problems and pain in my shoulders (which I can feel and hear grinding against my shoulder joint) when I do them. I also seem to have a really hard time grasping my wrists behind my back and I'm looking for any suggestions on how to loosen up and stretch those areas. Any help would be appreciated!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 8 replies

Nanna teaches @Shoebox Studio in SF

Nanna — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:05:54 GMT

Nanna teaches Belly Dance at Shoebox Studio’s in SF
A Multilevel Class in Cabaret Belly Dance with an earthy & unique style.
Define your movements and discover an approach to solo dance with an understanding and acknowledgement of Arabic origins and traditional music.

Shoebox Studio is centrally located in Downtown San Francisco, on Folsom St. between 4th and 5th St. Shoebox is a few short blocks from Powell Bart/Muni Station

855 Folsom St. Suite 112
San Francisco, Ca 94107
Phone: 415.861.5976
http://www.shoeboxsf.com/index.html

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

Egyptian Drop?

Reina — Fri, 30 May 2008 05:53:18 GMT

Is there such a move? Is this it?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH5dyAgTig0

Around 5:05

One of my very first instructors taught us a VERY SLOOOOOOOOWED down version of what Jillina does. In an exaggerated sense, the move looks like you are about to sit down on a public toilet and all of the sudden you change your mind - kind of a pelvic tilt back and then an abdominal contraction and glute squeeze back up again.

Does anyone have any other examples of this?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 7 replies

Streches for belly dance (and other warm-up exercises)

Tisha Leigh — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 15:53:56 GMT

Hi all,

I was just wondering, first of all, how much you stretch before (or after) you dance, and if you do stretch, what kind of stretches you do? I always try and stretch my sides out, and I do this by laying on the floor with one foot out to the side, and then I stretch over to that outstretched leg. Do any of you have any particular stretches that you always do before or after you dance, and if so, what are they? Do you think that these stretches really make a difference when you dance?? I feel like I have to stretch out my sides before AND afterwards, and then I follow with some slow dance moves to warm up my sides (usually hip slides-- slow at first, then I do them while walking), as well as for my pelvis. I am always looking for new stretches, so I was just curious. Thanks! :)

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 8 replies

forward-back shimmies!!

kalyani — Mon, 05 May 2008 08:05:20 GMT

ok, i'm generally quite good with shimmies and most hip moves but these..... i just cannot get!
my movements are too slow/too big and probably look rather obscene.....

how do you do it?

(the move i mean is the very last move in Petite Jamilla's dance here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ct3bru9dtMo )

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 10 replies

Zagareet (sp?) drills ;-)

Etana — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 18:40:41 GMT

Ok - ladies...as much as my heart can do this, it does *not* translate into the actual sound.

So, from step one - how is this done??

{{{you might help me spell it right, too ;-) }}}

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 34 replies

How to?

+Pandora+ — Tue, 20 May 2008 04:49:07 GMT

I know this is one of the goddesses in belly dance but i was wondering int his video from 1:44 to 2:09

How can I make this better for me? I have had problems balancing myself and not making it so painful. Im assuming i must be doing something wrong. I know it takes practice and sweat but Im not sure if its normal for my feet to hurt. Any ideas or steps on how to do this? I appreciate it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryZA68xoly8

+Pandora+

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 4 replies

What move is this?

Nienna — Thu, 29 May 2008 12:58:47 GMT

Hi everyone!
I have a question about a move I see all the time in the really big name, or pro dancers. It's a traveling shimmy but I'm not sure just what 'type' of shimmy it is.
You can see it here in Kami Liddle's most recent tribal fest performance (love love this solo)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=sPnVIW2d5vc&feature=related
It's around 7:00 to 7:14 and she does it back and forth across the stage so you'll recognize it I'm sure.
Is it a 3/4 shimmy? It's just so amazing but I'm not well versed or trained enough to be able to tell what it is exactly. And if it is a 3/4 shimmy then damn....... I have a LOT of work to do lol!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 20 replies

Dancing with emotion

Raven — Thu, 22 May 2008 19:08:05 GMT

I wrote an article on this subject recently, but it occurred to me that it would be really good to hear what some experienced belly dancers have to say about it. I love watching a good dancer's face just as much as her body movements - it's all part of dancing to me. Sometimes I wonder, though, about dancers who technically are perfect, but are really dull to watch because there is no dynamic emotional expression in their dance. Now, I do some of my dances stoically - it works for some things and I love it - but other dances I just have a huge grin, and people say they love that, too.

How do you all feel about emotions in belly dance, and what do you do to create more expression and less of a poker face while you dance?

Article below if you wish to read through it:

http://www.thegypsykiss.com/ArticleEmotionsPlaceinDance.html

Raven

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 10 replies

Zil recommendation - Brass or Silver?

stephanie — Thu, 24 Aug 2006 15:11:29 GMT

Greetings! I am finally moving up from my Tinker Zills to a real pair - I really love the look of the silver over brass but wanted to know if there are any pros/cons to either. The only other pair I have used (borrowed) are the Afghani (heavy gauge) - the weight was fine and I loved the sound. I am one of those complete geeks who actually likes zilling so this may become my new collection ... Thanks for your input!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 33 replies

The $5 pants!

Chandra — Thu, 29 May 2008 11:51:39 GMT

We've all seen those fabulously hot Melodias
Soooo, what do you say to getting a $72 (plus S/H) for ONLY $5???
Check it!

Melodia Promo
www.beledibay.com/Win_Melos.html

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

GINGER MAGIC..........Reflexology, Reiki, Hand and Foot Massage............

Ginger — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:21:27 GMT

Just letting people know that we are at Raq's Brittiania June 13th-15th
For those who are going and would like to treat there feet after a performance or workshop
feel free to contact me through tribe........

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

"Wow!" Kind of Dancing

Chelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 16:37:39 GMT

Okay, I wasn't sure where to post this, but I felt it needed to be shared with the bellydancing community. It isn't bellydancing... but I feel we could definitley learn something from this guy when it comes to isolation and creativness in choreography. Just... wow.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VNO4m7qip0

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 13 replies

Laybacks

supakat — Mon, 26 May 2008 02:26:33 GMT

I'm looking for ideas for strengthening and drills for laybacks. I've been bellydancing for a few years now and I think I'm ready to do this, safely!

Many thanks

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 17 replies

SF Mecca Immersion--Come pilgrimage to where it all began..Aug. 8-12th

debrubin — Mon, 26 May 2008 19:30:18 GMT

The daily schedule of events for SF MECCA IMMERSION is now posted online.
www.sfmeccaimmersion.com
all the drilling and choreo you could want! From some of the pioneers in the Tribal fusion dance world...

Experience where it all began.....

Aug. 8-12th, 2008
A "retreat" into the heart of the San Francisco Tribal Fusion Bellydance scene, aesthetic, music, dance, and culture.
This is not a festival per se, it's an intensive. Or immersion rather.. where you'll get individualized attention and shared group experience deepening over the course of 3- or 5 days droppin into the dance together! Come immerse yourself in the culture, the music, the bay area bohemian bellydance underworld that is shaping the tribal fusion explosion world wide. Experience where it all began. Learn from some of the pioneers in the field, meet the musicians too, who are shaping the culture and dance! , Dive in, and see how it inspires YOU! In addition to lots of technique and dance training, there are special workshops/lectures on context, history, evolution of tribal fusion bellydance, Core Yoga specifically for dancers, hang out at our local hot spots, workshops on costuming, aesthetic, creating true fusion choreography, and developing your own style, panel discussions on the collaboration between dancers and musicians, with some of your favorite musicians and dancers shaping the art form, lots of performances, and yes, even vending! by some of the bay area's hottest designers...
It will max at 55 people, so pls. do register early to reserve a spot.

Featuring the likes and like-abilities of:
Zoe Jakes (The Indigo, BDSS, Yard Dogs Road Show)
Mardi Love (the Indigo, BDSS)
Carolena Nericcio (founder/director of Fat Chance Bellydance. Creatrix of ATS style. "I'm like your grandma. And i love you.")
Deb Rubin (founder of SattyaBody HealingArts & Dance Collective, Former member/choreographer/teacher with Ultra Gypsy)
Rose Harden (former Co-director of Ultragypspy, Founding member of Barbary Coast ShakeDown)
Cera Byer (Director of Damage Control Theater---choreographical genius. :)
Brass Menagerie!!
Beats Antique!!
Dan Cantrell (of the Toids, Dan Cantrell's gigaband; musical genius of Danistan)
Peter Jakes (Director Brass Menagerie, member of Dan Cantrell's gigaband, expert on all things Balkan and musical)
Elizabeth Strong
Mira Betz
Damage Control
Sister Kate

and more to be announced!

and p.s. the venders are lookin HOT!!! HOT!!! HOT!! Maybe we should just have a big shopping weekend? Or do you guys really wanna dance? (just kidding)
JUST ADDED to the MECCA BAZAAR:
da lovely MIRA MANIA DESIGNS! Classic classic Classic. yet modern hip and innovative. can both be true? in mira, the answer is, why yes!
I know ya'll have seen her mastery on the dance floor.... now imagine that in 'stich' form. This lady knows style and costume design!

Lee Kobus (one of a kind pieces made with such care, artistry, and love.... Lee-a former UltraGypsy--you may have seen her as one hot robot in medusa and machine.. has been designing unique performance pieces for years and years... from feathered hair clips to glass beaded and buttoned belts, her designs and artistry are not to be missed!) ;

Black Lotus Designs!~ This bay area designer i actually met up in portland, and i think i bought out her stash of one of a kind wrist cuffs! Such artistry in her work, and she personally sews every stitch. gorgeous bustles, vests, and tops. You may have seen her creations being worn by da lovely and talented Arielleh, and frederique. And if you've gotten close enough recently to my wrists... ME! :) Custom orders available.

Plus: Rosehips skirts, Medina Maitraya (costume designer for Lucient Dossier and BDSS), HIppStirr belts, Five and Diamond, Tenley Wagmo Designs, AYYA, katherinesummer designs, Minerva Antennea, Wendy Darling (the creatrix of the beautiful marie antoinette ultragypsy 2007 Cake set bustle-y costumes), as well as merchendise from the Indigo, Brass Menagerie, Beats Antique (NEWEST CD RELEASE will be AVAILABLE!!!), Fat Chance Bellydance, and more!

ALSO on the roster..... some surprise visitors in the weekend. shhhhhhhhhh!

i sooo want to spill the beans, but i guess ya gotta be present to win.
we shhhhore do hope to see you there!

pls. let me know if you have questions
namaste,
deb
deb@sfmeccaimmersion.com

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

Turkish drops

Tisha Leigh — Sat, 24 May 2008 00:23:19 GMT

I am able to do a drop without it apparently bothering my back, but the question I have is more about doing it without it taking a toll on my knees. For me, it seems to be hardest on my knees, because when I start doing a Turkish drop on a regular basis, my knees start feeling a little funny. They don't hurt so much, but they just feel a little strange. I don't believe it's because they're weak, because I work out all the time, running, lifting weights, etc. So, I don't think that is the problem. If you watch a dancer do a drop, you can see that all of the body's weight is being put on the knees as they come down. I'm not sure if I'm doing something wrong as I come down or what. I was wondering what other dancers do as far as protecting their knees when doing this move? Could it be the placement of my feet or something?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 12 replies

Choreography

natalie — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:38:38 GMT

Help! Does anyone ever get choreography block? I am trying to choreograph my second solo and I am stuck. I am a beginner at this. Is there a secret to choreography that I just don't know? How long should it take to plan a "good" choreography? I know the basics change levels, travel, etc... but still seem to not be able to get the job done. Any suggestions?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 14 replies

Travelling shimmy = 3/4?

Pernilla — Wed, 07 May 2008 14:01:18 GMT

Hi! I'm new on this tribe, and I have loads of questions for ya, starting with this one...
When it comes to shimmies and travelling, why is it that the 3/4 shimmy is almost always the only option you are told about?
The instructional dvd:s I own only mention the 3/4. All how to-s I have read except one only mention the 3/4. I have found that when I practice travelling shimmies I sometimes do a sort of 4/4 shimmy (=4 hips per step) when not paying to much attention to the rlr-lrl-technique - mostly beginning with my right hip going because my left side isn't as flexible, but I'm working on making me left side as strong/ quick/ flexible as my right one. How many travelling shimmies are there? How can I practice travelling and shimmying further without getting stuck with one specific technique?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 21 replies

Drills for belly roll?

Sujata — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 11:30:12 GMT

Given the nature of this community this may have been asked a million times. I'm just wondering about drills and such for belly rolls? I have been dancing for years but I still can't nail the roll. I work better bottom/up than up/down, I just have a lot of problems isolating my muscles to push out the muscles in my upper abs. How can I work my muscle memory for these areas?

I'm sorry if this seems so simple. I've never had a teacher explain it to me, I've also googled it but searching 'belly' and 'belly dance' can produce some confusing results...

Thanks muchos in advance. x

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 19 replies

Undulations

Kiara — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 20:35:27 GMT

I just want to share this youtube video of Lady Blue (from Argentina) with undulation exercises.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=JdNuH-H4Jyo

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 11 replies

What not to do when pregnant?

Faedra — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 17:03:08 GMT

I was wondering what bellydance movements you should restrict or remove altogether when you're expecting? My husband and I aren't pregnant YET but we're going to start trying next spring and I was just curious!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 26 replies

Melodia Designs Tribe is MOVING!!!

MizzCherryPie — Thu, 22 May 2008 11:29:50 GMT

Yes Ladies and Gentlemen... our pictures have taken over this site. the last 5 years have been recorded, and it becomes harder and harder to wade through the Pictures, and we are about to explode into a whole new era!

We are moving into a new warehouse space, where we will be offering Dance Workshops, and Hosting events! I promise we will be having a house warming event! Also we have a brand new website that is getting launched Some time in July with our very own Online Store, so we will no longer have to go through ebay, and you will be able to have wish lists, register your size, your contact information, and we will have a database to keep track of our inventory... YAY! Growth and Development.

Please take a moment to follow this link to our NEW **Official Melodia Design Tribe** and join us in a whole new era! I will continue to post on this current tribe until June 15th, and then we will be posting solely on The new Site http://tribes.tribe.net/melodiadesigns so join us now, and stay abreast of the upcoming changes, and Inventory Extravaganza's.

I invite you to post new pictures of yourselves. utilize this site to continue the beautiful conversations and support one another for our love of pants!

Please help spread the word!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

What is this and how do you do it?

Michelle — Thu, 08 May 2008 21:30:23 GMT

Hi guys! I'm new here! I see this combo a lot, I keep trying to do it but it happens so fast that I am not sure of the different moves that go into it so I can break it down. (I hope that made sense!) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFXNZLsEVqw From :59- about 1:03 Any help would be very much appreciated!

~~~Michelle

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 13 replies

top for sale/trade

angie — Wed, 14 May 2008 19:20:20 GMT

pictures here
http://people.tribe.net/bbf2df4a-2430-46f3-a328-29806d2362f4/photos

it says size 34 but I'm probabally 36/38 and it fits me fairly tightly, I have a rather large chest *Ahem* and the girls do NOT like being in that thing at all.. Has 4 bra-style clasps on the back for adjustability :)

Not sure what it's worth, gladly take trade or cash :)

lemme know if interested!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 2 replies

Pelvic lock squares- help

miss_drea_cakes — Sun, 04 May 2008 23:40:01 GMT

Hi all-
When doing this movement, I have trouble getting a dramatic release to the back. The front and both sides are sharp, but the back is way too soft.
Does anyone have any tips to crating a sharp release to the back? I'm thinking it might be beause when I do squares, for some reason my hip flexors tense up when I flex my glutes.
Thanks!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 6 replies

finding time to drill

Fariha — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:50:51 GMT

how does everyone get a well rounded practice fit into their schedule? im the sort who needs to have a set schedule, or i end up getting to the end of the day and going "where did my practice time go?"
i tried 4 days a week drill hard moves, 2 days a week drill moves i know pretty well to keep them up and get them more refined- doing one of those for 30 min, and 30 mind of drills from one of my dvds. but that k.o.ed my body when i combined it with gym time (30min cardio 5 days, 6 days alternating muscle groups weight training, also about 30 min) other than overdoing-it i just don't have time! how does everyone fit in drilling and dance practice and gym?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 14 replies

Improvisation help?

Karissa — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 08:27:03 GMT

I need some help. I'm a beginner and am trying to work on my improvisations. I just throw a song on (traditional or something from the radio that I like) and try to improvise, but it's like I get stuck. My mind goes blank and I can't think of any moves to transition to. I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions??

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 21 replies

Fire circle dancing - looking for suggestions

Lisa — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:16:39 GMT

Hi,

Does anyone have any input on dance moves that are particularly suited to going around in a circle? I have some ideas but I could use a few more. Thanks!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 11 replies

Fluidity?

Faedra — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 14:07:41 GMT

What DVD's, dance styles, stretches, or exercises should I do to really work on my flexibility and fluidity?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 22 replies

What are "earthy" movements?

his_zina — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 13:52:42 GMT

Hello all. In reading descriptions of dance styles for ex. N. Africa, they typically state the dance uses strong hip movements, generated by the hips, not legs, and that the movements are very earthy. What is earthy?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 21 replies

World and Bellydance CDs for Sale/Trade

Noelle — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 20:05:21 GMT

I have the following list of perfect or near-perfect condition CDs to clear out. E-mail me the title you're interested in. I take cash and trades. So, if you have any cool bellydance music (I love tribal), hairfalls, henna, costumes, or bellydance Dvds to trade...hit me up! If you have something else to trade, e-mail me anyway. You just might have something I need.

World Music:
Willie and Lobo, Wild Heart
Jesse Cook, Nomad
Ahmed Abdul-Malik, Jazz Sounds of Africa
Nass Marrajech, Sabil 'a 'Salaam
Various Artists, The Essential Guide to Arabia (2 Cd Set)

Belly Dance Titles:
Beats Antique, Tribal Derivations
Electric Oasis, Exotic Arabian Groove
BEat Bazaar, Fine Middle Eastern Percussion
John Bilezikjian, Dream of Scheherazade
John Bilezikjian, La Danse Orientale
Layali Al Sarq, Al-Ahram Orchestra
Solace, Moon Moth Mixes: A Bellydance PRactice Companion
Pentaphobe, A Tribal Metamorphosis
Voyager, Art of the Bellydance
Emad Sayyah, Modern Bellydance from Lebanon
HOssam Ramzy, Sabla Tolo
Various Artists, Bellydance Beats
Mosavo, Sensual Goddess
Harry Soroyan, An Oriental Bouquet
Turbo Table, Bellydance Overdrive
Hossam Ramzy/Jose Luis Monton, Flamenco Arabe
Hossam Ramzy/MOhamed Naiem, Master of the Arabian Flute
Naked Rhythm, Frequency
Various Artists, Authentic Bellydance Music
Various Artists, Gypsy Fire

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

Lower Abs

Jenevieve — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 18:07:51 GMT

So. My lower abs don't work. I can't seem to seperate them enough from my upper abs to make a bellyroll happen. I feel like through the normal course of dancing and conditioning I've developed some "presence" there, but I'm ready to step it up a notch and really focus on strengthening those muscles.

I found this website which I thought might be helpful to some folks: http://lowerabexercises.blogspot.com/

What sort of tried and true lower abs exercises do you use?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 11 replies

"Double Zilling" vs Alternating Hands

Asha — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 19:02:12 GMT

Hi! I've been dancing for a few years now but have been procrastinating on learning the zills. I've worked with a couple different teachers that have different styles/opinions on how to play them. One teaches "double zilling" where one hand is dominant and keeps the beat. The other teaches alternating zilling where the hands alternate each hit. I guess there is no "right" way to play, but I wanted to open this up to more experienced dancers - is it really easier to play fast and not miss a beat if you alternate? Is there any benefit to "double zilling"? Is one method more common in certain styles?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 24 replies

Duck walk?

SashaD — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 03:37:57 GMT

Can someone explain, or better, provide a clip as to what a 'duck walk' is? I've heard dancers refer to it before but I'm not familiar with the move. It's some sort of squat-walk I think. Any info will be appreciated.

Thanks!

~S~

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 21 replies

Online bellydance radio

Bhasat — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 23:44:50 GMT

I don't know whether any of you have found this before, but I just ran across a website that has podcasts or streaming radio of vintage bellydance music. It's called Radio Bastet:

http://radiobastet.libsyn.com/

Enjoy all the free practice music!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 12 replies

Choreography: Dina Tata

Nuria — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:15:09 GMT

Hi, this is also a choreography tribe, so I would like to ask everybody that knows the song Dina Tata. I find it a beautiful piece of pop which really gets me party mooded. Amar Gamal dances it on the dvd "the exotic art of bellydance", I've seen a minute of her choreography on youtube and it really matches the mood - there is another clip of a girl dancing with cane but her moves seem too small for me, they are good for the "taksim", but for the beginning I prefer Amar's temperamental approach But, do you call it a taksim what starts at around three minutes? It is kind of accordeon-taksim but the beat continues. It's endless which for me kind of draws the initial temperamental mood out of the song. I'm thinking of editing/shortening it, but even though, after that "taksim" finishes, they don't bother to pick up the initial theme but the song finishes surprisingly, cutting it short.
When dancing to it, do you perceive this as a problem? How do you put the two moods together? Would you also cut that taksim (is it a taksim or not?) or not? The taksim plays around and seems to ask for a lot of hipwork or core-moves without a lot of travelling, at least in my interpretation. How can you dance it as a piece that belongs together and not like two separate pieces?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=w1yte4OCl_I
http://youtube.com/watch?v=zW97aHF426M

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 3 replies

Keeping veil dance interesting?

Suzy (Suzanne) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:25:30 GMT

Okay, so here's the story...when I come up against something difficult in bellydance I tend to let it go, but this year I'm determined to break that bad habit to conquer my newest challenge: veils! Our student night is on April 12 and I'm choreographing a veil solo. What I didn't realize at the time I agreed to do this is how difficult it's going to be to keep that particular three minutes of my life interesting to other people! I've been perusing youtube for inspiration and the thing that I do see is that a veil that is moving most of the time is more fun to watch than one that's 'just there.' I'm still looking for music too, so if anyone had some jewels of wisdom to pass along I'd really appreciate it!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 45 replies

Undercover Drills?

dianne — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 16:56:09 GMT

I just started an office temp job in which i sit in front of a computer for 8 hours/day. Plus, I have to take the train nearly an hour each way.

To combat the dreaded "secretarial spread", I've been trying to think of drills that I can do both while sitting at my desk and standing (or, on a lucky day, sitting) on the train.

So far I've been doing loads of glute work and belly rolls. (Perhaps too much? I kind of zoned out on the train while doing glute squeezes and 3/4 shimmy glute squeezes along to my ipod music, and when I got off at my stop, I was SO sore! I'd been doing them for 45 minutes!)

So, can anyone suggest some other drills that won't attract a lot of attention? I share a cubicle with someone, so unfortunately shoulder work or chest slides/circles are out.

Hmmm... glutes, belly rolls, isolating upper and lower abs, pelvic tucks.... what else?

Thanks! :)

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 15 replies

Teaching to Seniors -----

Marianna — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 22:21:06 GMT

I just volunteered to teach Bellydance Excersize at my local Sr Center --- the director is really jazzed about it ! I'm 63 myself, and been dancing for about 6 years, both Tribal and 'cabaret'. Not a pro by any means, but have a background in health services work, so I know not to push seniors too hard. Besides, ha ha, I'm an old mare myself D!. Anyone have ideas/recomendations/tips on teaching vintage women. I'm thinking easy basic moves and some simple choreography. I'm excited about it. I'll take my 2 lessons weekly and get to dance with my 'class' once a week. Bring on the inspiration, sistas !

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 11 replies

Stage names?

Kathy — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 22:41:27 GMT

For those of you with stage names:
When did you give yourself a name? Was it when you started dancing, performing or another time?
Why did you take the name you did?
I'm going to X-post this question to see what other tribes say too!
Thanks!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 24 replies

Ummies - brain fart

Stephanie — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 19:08:08 GMT

What is the first move to perform an ummie? Pelvic tuck?
Haviing one of those days.
thanks for any help!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 5 replies

X post: swords banned in the UK

Fariha — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:34:57 GMT

I live in the states, i am copying this for her, please read

Hello all.
Please support you sisters in the UK. We are now banned from purchasing dance swords.

Sad news I'm afraid. I have just spoken to Jonathan Batt, at the home office who has confirmed that we (belly and tribal dancers in the UK) are covered in the VCR (Violent Crimes Reduction Bill).
As Belly dancers, we are not covered in the exemptions of being classed as a 'sporting activity' or a Historical reenactment. While we can perform with our existing swords, if you have public liability insurance. You can no longer purchase a new blade.

This is scary thought, as if we are not included in the exclusions to the ban, the art form of sword dancing will ultimately die out in the UK! my sword was broken recently In a workshop when it was dropped. I now can't get a new one....

The only way we can get this changed for all belly dancers is to contact the home office and request that as a dance form that we are allowed to continue to be allowed to purchase swords, so that we can continue with a beautiful art form.

Please, Please take the time to contact Jonathan and request that he put forward to the Home Office that bellydancers and tribal dancers are made exempt from the VCR Bill. He is a nice guy and has agreed to be the contact point for this query. It will take a huge volume of dancers contacting him to make a difference, so please take the time to write to him.

His contact details are Jonathan.Batt@Homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk

Also if you are a member of a tribe, where this is not mentioned, can you please post information there.

Ta
Denise

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

OK, what's a Suzy-Q turn?

Zamira — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 23:53:01 GMT

I just got the DVD Mastering the Dance by Amar Gamal (love the choreography, by the way!). Anyway, she doesn't really break down the moves, just names them and does them, and she does one turn she calls a Suzy-Q turn. As far as I can tell, she steps out to the side with the right foot, cross the left foot over in front to place it behind the right foot, then pivots her body around. Has anyone been taught something called a Suzy-Q turn?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 9 replies

Tight hamstrings - help!

Stef — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 19:02:24 GMT

For the past week or so i've been waking up in the morning with really aching hamstrings, weirdly despite not doing anything out of the ordinary during my day or practise (i think!). Can anyone recommend a good stretch or way to open them up so they're not so damn tight!?

Thanks in advance chicks.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 14 replies

instructional dvds

jillparker — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:43:41 GMT

im so happy to see this tribe exists! I want to make a truly helpful dvd and would love input from dancers like yourselves that care enough about your dancing to discuss it here.

what are you looking for in an excellent instructional dvd and why?

are you a a beginner, experienced, performing or teaching bellydancer?

what got you interested in bellydance?

how did you find out about it?

what do you aspire to in your dancing?

what has helped you learn most?

what has you most frustrated?

if i cant be there with you how can i best help you?

can you think of anything else that seems of value?

Thanks so much for your valuable input!
Jill Parker
www.ultragypsy.com

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 18 replies

Tabla intro -- how to choreograph?

Bhasat — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:52:10 GMT

Hi all,

I'm writing my first choreography, and I have a question for anyone with suggestions. The piece I'm choreographing starts out with 32 counts of fast tabla work, and then goes into a more relaxed-sounding tempo (I'm guessing it's about 100). The tabla work is at the same tempo, but because it's so fast, it sounds like it's cut-time. My question is, does anyone have any suggestions for how to start this? I had originally thought about starting with some kind of shimmy and layering it with arms and hip slides that would mimic the tabla hits, but it seems really anti-climactic to go into simpler moves right after that. The song is around 3 minutes, so I'm trying not to use up all the good stuff at the beginning. Thoughts?

Thanks!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 15 replies

Jasmir from Colorado

Molly — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 03:25:26 GMT

Here is my new-ish troupe performing our first sword piece, the filming is fuzzy, it's better if you make it full screen. Tell me what you think! How do you like my stuff??

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEUjKbdP9Y4

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 3 replies

Shimmy Drills

Fearless Leader — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 18:42:16 GMT

How do you drill your shimmies? At what intervals do you practice them? Do you time yourself or use a method of counting out musical counts? Do you only focus on one area (hips or shoulders) or do you practice your whole repertoire?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 1 reply

messing up! while performing!

jessica — Thu, 07 Sep 2006 00:05:08 GMT

what do you do when you mess it up?i know to improvise and just keep going and dont make any lame face like"oh crap i just messed up!"but really...my dance is not a solo but i like to perform it for family and friends and this last time i had a brain fart and totally forgot a section of my dance and had a hard time filling in until i heard another spot in the music to continue.it was terrible cause it was in front of quite a few close friends and family,important audience.i know this dance very well,ive even had to remind my teacher of counts but i messed up where it really counted,i felt so silly and embarressed and i wanna know your stories.thanks.much love.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 42 replies

Dancers Wanted

evil — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:29:46 GMT

I am looking for friendly & patient semi-professional belly dancers and/or fire performers for a dance company. Age between 21-37. Dancers must provide thier own costmes. Absolutely no egos or drama allowed. If interested contact Evil Raven. We are located in the San Gabriel Valley area in CA

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

duets and duos-your thoughts?

Celeste — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 01:27:43 GMT

My friend and I are trying to choreograph a belly dance duet and I was wonder if anyone had any suggestions about it. I have watched pretty much every video on youtube of duets and duos just to get ideas and see how other people did it and I was amazed at all the different styles. Some people are totally in syncronized (sp?) and together the entire time and some people kind of freestyle, or each have their own moves. Some just dance to the audience and some interact with each other more. So now that I have seen all of these styles and my head is completely swimming, I thought I'd ask you all for some advice. What do you like to see in a belly dance duet?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 14 replies

Practice emoting? feeling music?

Zafira — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 17:57:38 GMT

Any suggestions for practicing feeling the music? or emoting while dancing?

A good friend pointed out that to take it to the next level I need to show intensity of feeling, but now sure where to start.
She suggested watching performance DVDs, but I already do that.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 27 replies

Zill Challenged...Zill Dork...whatever

2libradesigns — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 06:56:02 GMT

**Cross posted**

In a nutshell, I have no rhythm. I have come to that conclusion. I can dance semi-adequately, but when it comes to putting on a pair of zils and sounding ok, I can't do it. My darling friend and teacher keeps trying (bless her heart). She is encouraging, but I know the truth.

My goal this year is to try to become functional enough with them so that I don't embarrass myself. To accomplish that I thought maybe if I had some instructional materials that would help. I will be attending Rakkasah West next week, and on my shopping list is a visit to booths that might have the instructional materials available.

Can anyone recommend anything in particular? I have a pair of Saroyan zils that I bought a few years ago in hopes that good equipment might make a difference. No such luck

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 17 replies

OW!

Fariha — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 17:08:49 GMT

I have been drilling my twisting shimmy (well, it will be a shimmy.... someday..) and my back started hurting. not the low back, but between my shoulder blades. it's a little bit of a problem area for me, but I was wondering if anyone would know why a shimmy would set it off. (i was on the elipticle before that, and had just finished drilling egyptian/piston shimmy).
any advice for what i might be doing wrong would be very helpful. thanks!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 7 replies

Advance Copy of Drills! Drills! Drills! - $10 offf

michelle — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 03:07:46 GMT

Hi Everyone,

A while back I was on this tribe asking advice because I was making a belly dance drills DVD. I got a lot of great advice that I have used!

Well, it's done! Here is the trailer and some more info http://cheekygirlsproductions.com/catalog/drills.html

I am offering a $10 discount (meaning it is $15 total including shipping) on advance copies to members of the Cheeky Girls Productions tribe, so I am inviting anyone who is interested to join http://tribes.tribe.net/cheekygirlsproductions

I use that tribe as sort of a "focus group" as I am working on projects and the $10 off is my way of saying thank you. Anyway, the thread titled "Drills, it's finally here" gives all the details about how to order with the discounted rate.

Michelle

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 6 replies

Ouchie Twingies?

Faedra — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 14:56:18 GMT

I've been getting these sharp twinges in between my shoulder blades when I push to far out with a rib circle (or when doing fig 8's) and I can't figure out why. Its only been recently and I don't know what I could do to minimize the strain. Any suggestions?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 6 replies

awesome stretch!

Jacqueline — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:23:29 GMT

I'm taking a conditioning and injury prevention class this semester, and the prof. is truly awesome. Here is a stretch we did yesterday that seems too appropriate! If anyone at all wants, I can post photographs of myself doing this stretch so as to clarify any uncertainty. Just let me know what you'd like to see. ;-)

Lie on the floor with your legs pointing up the wall. Knees slightly bent, feet however is comfortable.

"squeeze your lemon" This is Patrick's description of engaging DEEP lower ab muscles. Imagine you have a lemon inside you between your pubis and your navel. Squeeze all of the juice out of it until it is the size of a walnut, a garlic clove, a pea....

Lift your tailbone toward your heels. Focus on using your abs, and deliberatly NOT your glutes.

Slowly, slowly, lift your sacrum.

Slowly, slowly lift your low back.

Slowly, slowly lift your middle back.

Allow the back to stretch deeply. Squeeze the lemon, relax the glutes, neck and shoulders. Focus on the deep abs.

Slide your hips to the side, leave your shoulders in place on the floor. Allow your hips to be disconnected, pure lateral displacement.

Slide to the other side. Repeat as desired.

Slowly, slowly, slowly lower back down.

Relax.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 17 replies

hafla?

Julie — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 03:07:17 GMT

Ok so I have seen a lot of pic's of hafla's but what are they? And how do I find them? It looks like fun. The bellydanceing community is rather illusive in Indianapolis.

Juls

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 5 replies

Hiya! A Newbie Here...Choreography Question

TerraNoir — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 17:40:29 GMT

I have plans to make my first solo choreography. And its been a lil problematic thus far. I have a very beautiful ethereal piece of music. The song is very very slow...and the beats are quite slow. Kinda making it difficult to dance to. Though in my head I have this beautiful choreography in my head. In my first attempts to do it...it wasn't as great as I imagined it. My combinations appeared to be to fast for the music. Any ideas and suggestions to get through these rough patches? Thanks!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 7 replies

Spotting while spinning

Samantha — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 06:01:25 GMT

I know this has been discussed before but I'm not finding satisfactory answers to my problem! I cannot spot. I can't find the spot again when I come around. It's just a big blur of stuff making me sick as it whizzes past me. I feel like I might as well just not spot at all (i don't when doing solos but it seems I'm being made to do it in class) and get just as dizzy without the effort of whipping my neck around. Jury's still out on whether spotting my own hand makes much difference. I would like to know what the heck I'm doing wrong, though.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 15 replies

Is it ethical?

his_zina — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 21:56:32 GMT

Is it a ethics violation if you see a video you really like and learn the choreography and then perform it somewhere? I notice the choreographies my school provides all say they're copywritten. But if something is out on the public domain, can you teach it to yourself and then maybe perform it?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 19 replies

Lotus hands? Enlightenment PAHLEASE!!!

Suzy (Suzanne) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 00:31:06 GMT

Okay, so I feel like a huge dumkoff that I am having trouble with such a beautiful hand movement. I've watched the Dancing Belly vids on youtube and that's helped a lot. Does anyone have any other places on the 'net I could go for more info/instruction? Thank you in advance, Suzy

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 20 replies

Ideas for getting in shape... FAST

JK — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 08:59:00 GMT

(I've also posted this in The Indigo tribe)

Ok, so I've decided to take three lovely 2 and 3 hour tribal fusion workshops in May (Sharon Kihara and Olivia Kissel), all within the time span of 4 days (with a hafla performance in between to boot). Besides that, I'd love to be able to take more (intensive) workshops or series in the rest of the year without being able to walk afterwards... :)

So... I have exactly ten weeks to get in shape.

At the moment I take one tribal class a week and do yoga a couple of times a week. Now I'm working towards one hour of yoga every morning, and also at least half an hour every evening, plus would love to work on choreography and drills for at least half an hour during the day (or perhaps after morning yoga). Besides that I'm thinking about taking 2 to 3 extra (belly)dance classes a week, and do an extra good job diet wise. Plus taking the bike instead of the bus to wherever I go. Of course, building it up wisely.
Also... workshops or not, I really just love to dance (and esp. yoga) more and take my fitness and dancing to the next level!

I'd love to hear about your fitness regime and get some fresh perspectives.
What do you do to get in shape fast and prepare for big upcoming events?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 13 replies

Shymmy on Fit TV

irena — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 04:18:47 GMT

A series called Shymmy will be showing on Fit tv. Apparently it airs on Tuesday nights but I saw two episodes tonight. I will be interested to hear what others think of the techniques being shown.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 59 replies

my poor 3/4 shimmy :(

PyroKitty — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 22:41:56 GMT

I could before, but am having a hard time flowing with my 3/4 shimmy when I am going fast. I can be sharp and precise when going slow, but the whole thing just gets lost when I go fast. It is one of the simplest moves and I really need to work on it.

Any drilling ideas? any tricks? (I have done well in the past, why did I "lose" it??)

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 19 replies

Why Is This Happening???

Azeeza — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:56:31 GMT

Last night, in class, we were drilling. I did fine the past several weeks and I even practiced at home a few times this past week, so why is it I messed up EVERY SINGLE time we drilled last night?

It was a simple drill, but I kept getting off on the wrong foot and my zill work was behind.

Does this happen to everyone? The first few times, weeks apart, are good, then too much of something and the learning process slips a bit?

Azeeza

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 16 replies

Head Isolations

Namir-Katie — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 14:33:15 GMT

Can anyone tell me where to start with head isolations? I've tried them, but I seem unable to move my head independent of other body parts and can't seem to keep my big dome straight (i.e., perpendicular to the floor) when I do them. On me they look like weird, spastic nodding. Now, I can do the Chicken Head (straight forward and backward)--as I think any child of the 80s can--but that's the extent of it.

Any ideas of where to start? Might it be a neck-stretching issue?

Thanks!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 13 replies

ok your favourite layers?

Hilde — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:03:07 GMT

a few that I like:

travelling:

3/4 shimmies with undulations
3/4/ shimmies with chest circles

layers of different movements;
maya with chest circles
hip locks with shoulder locks (up-down)
hip circles with chest circles
sidewinder with arm waves
mayas with chest figure eights and taxeems with opposite chest figure eight

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 9 replies

stupid question

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 21:59:08 GMT

Sorry if this is a stupid question but is the Ghawazee step, lame duck, and sameeha(spelling?) the same moves or a variation on a theme?
Thanks.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 10 replies

dancing to non-traditional music?

Celeste — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 08:06:24 GMT

First I want to introduce myself because I just joined this group. I've been belly dancing for about a year and I've only recently gotten to the point where I am performing with my troup.
On to my question: I was wondering about what people's oppinions are about dancing to non-traditional (non-middle eastern) music. I personally think it's really fun but I have met people who are totally against it and since I am still not very experienced, I don't want to offend anyone. I have so far only performed to middle eastern music, but when I eventually work up the guts to do a solo, I am leaning towards more modern, popular, american music. I have a friend who is a DJ and she makes me mixes of tribal drum beats mixed with popular songs that I practice to at home.
Don't get me wrong, I love the traditional middle eastern songs, but I really love all kinds of music and I like to change things up and do things that are a little different.
I hope this is the right tribe to be asking htis question in, since I know it is not about specific choreography, but I was hoping for a little insight.
Thanks!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 44 replies

Ribcage isolations for the zaftig

Qamar_al-Shefaa — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 04:41:24 GMT

I can't be the only one having this issue. When I do rib slides to the sides, no matter how good my posture or how tucked my pelvis to anchor it, I get some sympathetic motion in the hip area on that side because my ample midriff is connected and dragging the rest of the tissue along for the ride with my ribs. I would LOVE some tips for additional drills to minimize this reverb effect so I have crisp clean isolations. I'm fine with chest lifts and drops, but when you ask for rib slides on the horizontal plane I always get undesired hip motion as well unless I'm sitting in a chair. I'm driving the movement muscularly as opposed to skeletally, but even if I drive it skeletally I have the same issue. I drill standing and sitting to develop the muscles, but really want to clean up that bit of hip drag when standing and dancing.

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 25 replies

diaphragm corresponds to shoulderblade muscles?

Nuria — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 22:32:06 GMT

I wonder I was just practising my diaphragm and feel as if it tires the so important muscles beneath the shoulderblades. Are they connected?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 8 replies

Drills! Drills! Drills! - new DVD

michelle — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 20:39:27 GMT

Finally, Drills! Drills! Drills! is available for pre-order on Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Drills-complete-workout-cymbals-dancers/dp/B00144Y8XG/ref=tag_dpp_yt_edpp_rt?ie=UTF8&s=dvd

You can pre order it, watch a trailer, and see still images from the DVD at the above link.

For some reason the extended product description is not yet showing up on the listing, so here it is (from the back cover)

This DVD is designed to help you learn to make the most of your practice time. This is not simply a workout DVD, but also a lesson in how to practice. The elements of an effective practice routine are broken down and explained as you are guided through a complete, fully body dance workout.

There are several drills at varying levels of difficulty that are designed to increase your physical strength, muscle memory, and coordination. The beginner dancer can benefit from the breakdown of the moves and the slow isolation drills, while the more advanced dancer can go straight to the chapters that incorporate finger cymbals and layering techniques.

Over time you will notice the moves becoming firmly ingrained in your muscle memory. With regular practice, you will develop a strong, trained body that can effortlessly layer shimmies with isolations and finger cymbals.

The workout includes: • Strengthening Drills • Isolation Drills • Shimmy Drills • Layering Drills • Finger Cymbal Drills

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 3 replies

Full Body Shimmy

rabia — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 17:48:39 GMT

People seem to expect me to know this, but it's actually never been taught to me. What exactly is shimmying during a full-body shimmy? Is it hips and upper body? Does anyone have any tips on how to do this?

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 8 replies

Name of this music?

Kathy — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 20:26:23 GMT

I have seen this on u tube a few times. The gals are great, but I can't seem to find out what the music is? Anybody out there know? Thanks!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fY83aFzK3x8

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 3 replies

My Website now has a full functioning auction site for you to use

sacredgoddess — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 07:48:07 GMT

Thank you to those who have supported me and have visited my swap page.
Because I realized it was not full service enough, and required me to be involved, I now have a fully functioning AUCTION page you can use. AND IT IS FREE....all you have to do is list and be sure to blog it or network it to others.
Its all yours..my gift to all of my fellow Tribers who got me off to a webstart!!
I have posted my blog but will post the url one more time
www.sacredgoddessonline.com
go to the auction link under other realms or you can also go the bellydance page and link from there. I will still have the swap page going..so dont worry..it is still up..
www.bellydancerswap.com

totally thrilled, and with your help we can network and keep this free auction site going!!
thanks again guys..
Sandy

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

new tribe

Astrid_Seftali — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 14:05:26 GMT

I created a new tribe on Arabian Love Poems. Some of the poems may give you ideas what you are dancing about...You are welcome to join.
http://tribes.tribe.net/arabianlovepoems

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 0 replies

Howdy! Newbie here!

Kathy — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 00:41:53 GMT

Hi,
My name is Kathy and I just started dancing last week. I'm 43 and have 3 boys, a hubby & lots of critters.... and no time for me. ;-p So dancing is my "me" time now. I hope to learn more and I'm sure I'll have tons of questions. Hello to All!
Kathy

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 6 replies

Swords/candles

Basha — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 12:50:01 GMT

Quick question... ha ha... no such thing here right! Ok two... quick questions.

I was hoping to start working with swords or candles... I am going to start the sword search but I wanted to start practice first before I dive in with one... any ideas for practicing sword-less? I have work sometimes with a book on my head for posture and balence but I was sure there had to be a more representative way to practice with out an actual sword.

# 2.... good videos for candles. I haven't seen many dancers do it and that is also something I wanted to start (figured the cups of water will go a long way with that one)

Ok... thanks ladies!

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 13 replies

my first belly flutters!

megan — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 18:17:05 GMT

my very first, very small, fairly sad first attempts at flutters. i can see them in there! just barely. but i can't get them to come out :( any tips are appreciated
sorry there's no music in this video, my itunes is messed uppp.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=oE4Bb45alCY

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 20 replies

a song that moves you

annette — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 03:03:25 GMT

Hello, I'm planning a bellydance performance event for charity, John Kanzius Cancer Research, one of the performances will be in memory/in honor of cancer victims/survivors. It will be a candle dance where dancers will move down theatre isles then on to stage. I'm looking for that perfect song that will be moving but not depressing and appropriate for a candle dance. Any ideas out there?? Thanks for any input! : )

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 13 replies

Dancing with a live Drummer?

illumisis — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 22:06:35 GMT

First, I apologize if this topic has already been covered-- I haven't seen anything posted but there's always a chance of something being lost in my blind spot :c)

I was presented some opportunities recently to dance with a live drummer but I have not ever done so before. Well I ended up getting cold feet and was a little too intimidated to try. My dillemma is that I've danced and practiced to all sorts of rhythms, so I feel I have at least the basics in my repetoire to adapt to each, but I don't seem to be able to "predict" the rhythm. After hearing a song a few times I then am able to dance to it--- but I seem to have difficulty dancing on the fly when I don't know what the beats will be like next.

What I'm wondering is, how do you learn this? I know it's through "practice" but I'm wondering what kinds in particular would help. I know it's hard to put an absolute statement on a particular rhythm by saying exactly what the musical structure of a song will always be, but is there a pattern among them that I could at least go off of? Or is it mostly guesswork?

Thanks!! :c)

posted in Bellydance Drills and Choreography - 13 replies