West African dance has a rich and varied history that has played a significant role in the cultural traditions of the region. The dance styles of West Africa are diverse and reflect the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the region over time.
West African dance has its roots in traditional tribal dance, which was used for a variety of purposes, including religious rituals, social events, and entertainment. Many of these traditional dances have been passed down through the generations and continue to be performed today.
One of the most well-known West African dance styles is the high-energy and rhythmic dance known as the highlife. The highlife originated in Ghana in the early 20th century and quickly spread throughout the region. It is characterized by its fast tempo and the use of brass instruments, such as the trumpet and saxophone.
Another popular West African dance style is the Salsa, which originated in the Caribbean and was brought to West Africa by slaves. The Salsa is characterized by its fast and energetic movements, and it is often accompanied by Latin American music.
West African dance has also been influenced by other cultural traditions, including European and American dance styles. In the 20th century, West African dancers began to incorporate elements of jazz and hip hop into their dance routines.
Today, West African dance continues to be an important part of the cultural traditions of the region. It is performed at a variety of events, including festivals, weddings, and other celebrations. West African dance is also taught in schools and dance studios, where it is enjoyed by people of all ages.
In conclusion, West African dance has a rich and varied history that reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the region over time. From traditional tribal dance to modern styles incorporating elements of jazz and hip hop, West African dance continues to be an important part of the cultural traditions of the region and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
African Dance: Moves, Costumes & History
Free-flow floor patterns are some of the most common formations in African dances. The Bawa incorporates many of the movements often seen in fieldwork, such as threshing and planting, in a stylized manner. Kounta retired from the company and relocated to Columbus, Ohio where he continued his art form teaching in arenas at community venues, schools, several state universities, state institutions, museums and various conferences. Dancing in West Africa communicate many different things such as feelings, attitudes, concepts and stories. The sculptures tended to have long, narrow heads, unusual hair styles, and dramatic expressions. Bradford Kounta developed and implemented staff training for Columbus City Schools on Intergrating the Arts in the Classroom and has completed training through the Greater Columbus Arts Council on incorporating the academic standards in its school based arts programs. In the nation of Gambia, the griot Alhaja Papa Susso founded a school where musicians, dancers, and poets can study griot traditions.
West African Dance — CCCADI
In the west, these dance styles of hundreds of Black ethnic groups merged with white dances, forming the extension of the African aesthetic in the Americas. The presentation begins with a drum call and explanation of the dances and their origins through narration and print. African dance music is polyrhythmic. In spite of the regional and national variations, a distinct style tends to permeate African dance. In traditional West African cultures, griots passed along the history of their people through stories and songs. Our artistic outreach entities include dance workshops with instruction of basic movement and introduction of dance origins. Tap combined elements of African-influenced shuffle dances, English clog dancing, and Irish jigs.
West African
Many dances are only known within the particular tribe they come from, but most share, the common element of drumming as the dancing music. Milestones 1968-76 Abdou Kounta, a master drummer, international instructor, and renowned musician of traditional West African music, has mastered the djembe jim bay drum during his ten-year reign with the National Ballet du Senegal in West Africa 1983-92 Mr. Percussive instruments form the backbone of African dance music, and they play an integral role in African dance. Shoes are not traditionally worn in African dances. Dancers and drummers collaborate and function in dialogue with one another. In call-and-response singing, a leader plays or sings a short phrase, known as a call. In Mali, only two dunduns are used: the Kenkeni and the Dundun.
