Modern vs Contemporary Dance
Understanding the difference between modern and contemporary dance can be challenging if you’re unfamiliar with the nuances of each style. Both modern and contemporary dance have evolved from the art of rhythmic body movement used for social communication and expression. They are powerful channels that use various techniques and styles to represent emotions and unspoken language. The term “modern” usually refers to something new, while “contemporary” refers to the present moment. Let’s examine each dance style individually to better understand their differences.
What is Modern Dance?
Modern dance is a style free from the constraints of classical ballet, with no structured routines, focusing on free interpretations based on internal emotions. It originated in the late 19th and early 20th century as a rebellion against classical performances, costumes, and footwear. Dancers broke away from tradition, adopting relaxed, barefoot, and non-traditional costumes with modern dance. Modern dance costumes are often unique and interesting, with colors that complement the performance well, unlike traditional classical dance costumes.
What is Contemporary Dance?
Contemporary dance is a specific concert dance genre centered around unchoreographed movements influenced by compositional philosophy. It emerged in the 20th century and draws inspiration from a variety of methods and techniques taken from modern dance and ballet. However, it is deliberately designed to be non-classical in nature. Contemporary dance emphasizes precise form and often uses groundwork to create a piece that is neither cultural nor conventional jazz-oriented. Pioneers of contemporary dance include Merce Cunnigham, Ruth St. Denis, Doris Humphrey, Mary Wigman, Francois Delsarte, Émile Jaques-Dalcroze, Paul Taylor, Rudolph von Laban, Loie Fuller, Jose Limon, and Marie Rambert.
What is the difference between Modern and Contemporary Dance?
- Modern dance is free from the restrictions of classical ballet, without structured routines, and focuses on free interpretations based on internal emotions.
- Contemporary dance is a specific concert dance genre centered around unchoreographed movements influenced by compositional philosophy.
- Modern dance is older than contemporary dance.
Both modern and contemporary dance developed around the desire for a greater range of movement and expressions of style, distinct from traditional dance. However, modern dance places more emphasis on moods and emotions to create unique routines, while contemporary dance transcends boundaries by developing new styles of movement that haven’t been universally practiced. Modern dance routines deliberately use gravity, while contemporary dance retains elements of lightness and fluidity.
Dance forms have experienced significant growth over the years, serving their purpose of expressing and defining perspectives on various societal issues that are often overlooked. When considering the differences between modern and contemporary dance, it’s important to remember that both are forms of non-classical dance.
