Beginning Belly Dance

Improving my Improvisation-Or at least trying

2012-02-01T11:35:00.003-05:00

Well folks, I'm facing my biggest belly dancing challenge yet. I'm developing a complex over improvisation. You see the problem is...I suck!

I have a lot of things working against me here. I'm a planner, I'm shy, I'm introverted and I don't like being put on the spot. In one of my classes, a student is singled out every week to do an improvisational piece. This has been a SERIOUS source of anxiety for me. I feel like I'm one improvisational disaster away from reverting back to my original form. Dancing has really helped to bring me out of my shell and being made to improvise in front of the class is quite possibly, my worst nightmare realized.

Here are my options- I can quit, or I can suck it up, stop whining and get better. Obviously the former is not really an option. Here's my strategy to improve and I'm going to try sticking to it as much as possible:

1. Listen to classics over and over (I have done this three days in a row). The classic orchestral-type music is full of texture and layers and quite frankly, it makes my head spin. I'm trying to break it down, recognize instruments, rhythms and embrace these songs like I couldn't imagine listening to anything else.

2. Continue learning rhythms on my own time. Not just in class!

3. Practice more using the songs I enjoy. As in, pop songs and Beats Antique...*ducks from teacher's wrath*

4. Practice using the classics but by using a few different techniques:

-Only use 1-3 moves

-only dance to one instrument

-try my best, have back up moves and strut and/or shimmy when in doubt...Except during a taqsim. Then I'm screwed. Figure 8's?

-Watch YouTube videos to see these songs being danced by professional dancers.

5. Repeat the mantra, "it's okay to suck."

If anybody still reads this blog and has any tips, I wouldn't be able to thank you enough!

No Solo + Lots of Classes and Homework!

2012-01-19T20:32:00.004-05:00

Oh, the irony. After getting pumped over the idea of preforming at the Cabaret 101 I choreographed my own routine and practiced it so much that I hurt my hip. Actually, the hip injury was the result of many bad combinations but dancing for 2 hours straight, two nights in a row, certainly didn't help. It's better now though. :)

After telling everyone that I was going to do my first solo (if you're going to commit, you have to tell everyone!) the studio told me that there was no room left for performers. Serious bummer!

Instead I will take the four hour Folklore crash course that day. This is rather unusual but I really love the folkloric style. Whenever we dance it in class I feel very...I donno...Empowered! It feels very natural.

I've started taking 2 classes a week...For now. I'll see how it goes. Right now in Toronto, it's the winter so going to a class on a Sunday is a good thing. When the summer comes around, there will be other things I'd probably rather do, like go to beach or bomb around downtown. For now, I'm taking two classes a week! Here's hoping it helps me to accelerate my learning.

In class we're doing a whole bunch of cool stuff. We're learning rhythms in a more serious way than ever before: layering shimmies, really working on arabesques and turns, learning to identify instruments by sound...phew. I was sweating my butt off in Sunday and Wednesday's class!

There's a LOT of events coming up at the studio like a weekend-long intensive for my level that is just way out of my price range, the folklore (which I want to go to. Hopefully by the time I have the money to pay they aren't full!) the professional performance in March (already purchased tickets!) the Cabaret, drum lessons, music lessons and finally, the studio is officially changing it's name to The Egyptian Dance Academy.

Many changes. All of them good! Can't wait to keep practicing and progressing!

Seriously Considering a Solo

2012-01-06T08:49:00.004-05:00

At our dance school there are, "Student Cabarets." These events give us a chance to perform solos in front of other students. It's a great idea because it provides a supportive audience for new dancers to become confident with performing. At the same time it's an outlet to get us dancing in a contained space so those of us with a thirst for the stage don't do anything stupid like accept a paid gig before we are at that level.

Anyway, I'm seriously considering trying out my first solo at the student cabaret. It's February 18th. There are three options: I could do my own choreography, a gala choreography, or a teacher could make one up. I'd like to do my own. If I'm going to be in, I want to go all in!

Of course, a teacher has to approve it first and this is 100% okay. I'd definitely like to know if the piece is okay before performing.

I have already started on my dance but I haven't committed to anything. If I get the choreography together this weekend, I'll sign up Monday.

The prospect makes me feel excited but also incredibly nervous

Stay tuned

Holiday Homework

2011-12-15T16:03:00.005-05:00

We have two weeks off from class now and then I start the New Year with 2 classes a week. Our homework for the holiday season is to watch these videos. They are both entrance pieces:

One modern Randa Kamel

and one classic Samia Gamal

Five times each!!!

In the last class we wrapped up the module on traveling steps (did a little of everything that we learned) and became better acquainted with some Arabic rhythms which surely, is going to be my belly dancing downfall!

I picked up a Music Appreciation and practice for belly dancers workbook from the studio ages ago. I figure now is a better time than any to get on it. However, much to my dismay the second CD uploads into iTunes without a hitch but the first one (and more important) will not! This means that instead of being able to learn on the subway or from the comfort of my sofa, I'll have to do this from the office. Bleh! Maybe I can take breaks and dance.

I'm not totally clueless when it comes to music theory but I'm better at the written aspects of music, rather than ear training. Big surprise.

AND after all of that, I want to work on refining what we learned in the module so that my muscle memory grasps it firmly before we get started on the next.

*Phew*

I just wanted to post this Zar Ritual that my teacher shared with us. Aside from the rabbit torture (you don't see anything aside from rough handling but it assaulted my animal loving eyes...) it's really quite interesting.

Oh, and the picture is from the last gala show. It's the watermarked version. I purchased the unmarked copy but I'll keep that to myself!

Motivated Beyond Control

2011-12-09T16:09:00.004-05:00

As we near the end of our traveling steps module I feel a lot more confident with them. Now I need to learn how to balance steps with hip and chest work. At one point all I could do was stand in one spot and now I'm flying across the room in arabesques, chanees and sharky steps with not enough you know...belly dancing. Lol.

I've actually taken my practice up about 10 notches. I'm practicing everyday now instead of once or twice in between class and I'm using a variety of mediums from DVDs I've taken out from the library, to online classes and of course, going over my own course material.

I have noticed though that I'll reach a eureka moment and feel like I have excelled significantly only to be bopped on the head and taken down again. The most recent example of this was in the last class when my teacher asked us to follow along with her to an entrance piece for the other half of the students. I did terribly, including getting stuck in my veil.

I'm not one of those people that visually shows disappointment with myself. You know, I kept smiling and acted like it was pretty funny but deep down it actually kind of hurt. I just want to get better and I want things to come together more quickly then they actually are.

I do realize that it takes time. Rome wasn't built in a day and a belly dancer doesn't become proficient in the art in one or two or maybe even ten years. I just have to keep reminding myself that it's the journey that counts and not the destination.

Very Motivated

2011-11-25T15:31:00.003-05:00

Classes are going so well. After the student performance we started a module on traveling steps, including entrances. I have to say, I'm getting much better at steps. This, along with arms, were my primary weak spots and now both are continually progressing at a pace that I'm proud of.

I've practiced almost every night this week. Actually, I'm over-training and my hips are getting sore. I'll take it easy this weekend! I've even signed up for an extra class, on Sundays, to kick off the new year. I figure that it will be cold anyway, so I might as well try to accelerate my learning.

So my weakness now all lie in transitioning. When I practice I just try to dance to songs that I really like. If I'm standing in one spot I find that I can change between different body parts from my head to feet with relative ease for my level but once I try moving around the room I become repetitive and lose my grip on the musicality of the song. I suppose these things will improve, just like all of the other moves that I used to find so challenging but it is quite frustrating! Fortunately I have a good teacher(s) at the studio and I feel like I can ask them anything without feeling ridiculous.

I'm even starting to feel more like a dancer. I notice that I'm beginning to stand in first position by default. In the past, I never would have considered trying an exercise like Pilates. I would have said that it's not hard enough but if I'm convinced it will help my posture or improve my flexibility for dancing, I'm in!

So there you have it, I'm ultra-motivated and feeling more like a dancer every day!

A Postworthy Post

2011-11-06T07:55:00.004-05:00

It's been a long time since last post. I got married! Went to Turkey! I came home to learning choreography for the student gala. This number was challenging. We were a big group of 11 and used veils with a drum solo finale. It was the toughest performance yet! The things I learned from this gala:

1. Accept imperfection and have fun. I could not get the timing on the first sequence. Even on the day of the show the more experienced students in my class were trying to show me and even though it wasn't terribly noticeable, I knew that the problem was there and it was razzing. However, I understand that I can't let these things totally ruin the show for me and I had a great time regardless.

2. These shows really build connections. I see my classmates and other girls that I know every time I go to a class but it's the performances where I really learn about them on a more personal level. I meet their families, find out where they work, how old they are and a bit about their backgrounds and interest in belly dance. I feel like this is the best part of the student performances. I love seeing dancers I've worked with before, teachers I've trained with and the students that I'm in class with right now. It's a wonderful experience.

This time we had really neat costumes. We were encouraged to be creative and put together a skirt and top combo. Everyone was so colourful and every costume was unique. My husband (hehe so not used to that) said that the sight was really amazing, and of course, that we did a good job.

I'm getting better at being on stage. My legs no longer feel like lead. I do feel sick all day, right up until after the technical rehearsal but other than that I don't shake anymore and after the first 30 seconds or so on stage I feel much more loose and comfortable.

So yes, the show was a success!

Improving

2011-09-27T17:19:00.005-04:00

I've been in intermediate now for about 4 months and I'm finally feeling like I can keep up. We are focusing on drum solos, entrances and veil work now. When we first started working with the veil seriously (I more got a taste for it in other levels) I was soooo bad. Every class I was tangled. It actually made me laugh because I have to be the clumsiest belly dancer ever.

My shimmies are getting so much better. So much! It's almost hard to believe that they used to be my most challenging move and I'd think that I was just never going to feel natural at it. Now I'm shimmying all over the place!

So, I'm getting married in 4 days (ahhh!) and when I come home from the honeymoon I want to practice harder, take more workshops, classes etc. now that the expense of a wedding is behind me, I want to get really good!

I'm going to miss a gala practice while I'm away. Hopefully it won't set me too far behind!

I probably won't write again until after I'm married so wish me luck and see ya when I return!

Sultan's Tent

2011-09-06T07:41:00.004-04:00

I haven't been posting as much in here. I must admit, this wedding planning is quite consuming + work + feeling a little uninspired. That taksim stuff was hard. I think that the student gala is going to be earlier this year (beginning of November instead of December) so we'll be starting choreography again soon. I thought I would have progressed more by now. I know it's my own fault for not practicing enough. Hopefully when I return from the honeymoon I'll be able to dive back in. I've already missed a hafla, open house and a lot of cool workshops this summer!

It was my birthday last week and over the weekend Chris (my fiance) took me to a restaurant here in T.O. called, "The Sultan's Tent." It's a four course dinner with a belly dancing show. Now, why would he think I'd like that? Food. Belly dancing. Beer. HELLZ YEAH! So that was an awesome night out. It's hard to watch a belly dancer now just for entertainment. I'm either calling out moves in my head (like a recognition game) or I'm making a mental note of combinations to steal.

In other belly dancing news I'm stoked about visiting the Grand Bazaar in Turkey. There's a whole section for belly dancing gear. I may need to bring an extra suitcase just for it!

Okay, nothing else too interesting or thought provoking at the moment. :P

Taksim/Taqasim

2011-08-11T07:27:00.006-04:00

I can't believe it has been a month since my last post. I think I mentioned some time ago that I'll be getting married on October 1st. The planning for the big day has been a serious priority with only 51 days to go. And...We're going to Turkey for our honeymoon. That reminds me I have to learn some basic Turkish!

Anyway, in class we are learning how to do a taksim/taqasim. This is the slow, expressive and either sensual or sad/emotional component of a belly dancing improvisation and guess what guys, I SUCK! No really, Nada has been making us improv our way through a song every class and truly, I feel ridiculous. Even though I would describe myself as a hip based dancer and this particular baladi song calls for it...It's the improvisation.

Yes, I need to practice more. I promised myself that when I started intermediate I would work my butt off. Truthfully I've been so busy this summer that my at-home practice leaves much to be desired. Well, after the wedding (when I have extra money again) I'll probably pick up another class a week or at the very least, attend more workshops.

We've also been doing a lot of veil work to improve our posture. It's helping for sure but again, veils are not my strong suit. I like to be challenged though and this level is an eye opener as much as it's a very humbling experience.

I promise to practice my taksim this weekend
I promise to practice my taksim this weekend
I promise to practice my taksim this weekend

Hafla + Choreography

2011-07-11T08:10:00.004-04:00

On Friday I took my fiance to his first hafla! The studio is holding their annual, "summer intensive" program for students to really progress their abilities. The halfla's focus was on allowing these students the opportunity to perform to live music. It was great and as always. very inspiring.

Many of my classmates were in the intensive and WOW, they HAVE really progressed in a short time! Perhaps next summer I will be be ready to take the intensive myself!

The only thing I don't like about haflas is the dancing at the end. I just don't know how to dance at one! I mean, I can use belly dancing moves to dance but combined with other modern dance moves. When you're at a hafla using the moves you don't really use big swoopy arms, accents or traveling steps and I find it awkward. Not to mention my deepest darkest belly dancing secret is that I have a VERY hard time "feeling" the music that they play for the live performances. Now, put on some Beats Antique, and then I'll improv!

I've decided that I really need to step up my game. I've committed myself to working on a choreography, pretty much all of the time. Right now I'm working on something to Saidi Party by Upper Egypt Ensemble. I'm not sure if I want it to be a cane number or not. I'm thinking...probably. It's begging for it and It's a really groovy song. This is the perfect way to practice when I'm not working on isolations and combinations. I was just free styling for the longest time but I've reached the limit of how much that is helping me.

Plus, choreography is my one of my strengths. It's about time I work on something I'm good at.

Okay, my new goal is to do my first solo at the next hafla or student cabaret. You heard it here first! Now it's in my blog, and official. No turning back!

Student Performance - Going to get my love on...

2011-06-25T08:42:00.009-04:00

This was the best gala yet...

In the past, the success of these performances seemed dependent on whether I thought I did a good job or not. This time I really felt like that wasn't very important. Now that I have been with the dance school for almost two years I have met and danced with so many great gals. Truly, this gala was a blast because of everyone there who make it fun!

I'm going to give my play-by-play.

Night Before

-I finally *get* the Saidi hop when I'm practicing and it kind of throws off my cane rhythm. So I practice my butt off to bring the cane and footwork back up to par. This makes me a little nervous!

-I pin my costume to avoid malfunction, and pre-pack my bags.

-Paint nails and toes.

-Try not to freak out and actually manage to sleep! I think that's the first time I've slept before a performance. Woohoo

Afternoon of Gala

-Try not to throw up

-Arrive at the venue at 4:30. Find out we're going on third from last. I know it will be a long wait! I actually had a lot of work to do, and brought my comp along. This made time fly until 9pm!

-Tech rehearsal went REALLY well. I knew I couldn't replicate that again! lol. The whole classes's techs was awesome actually.

-After intermission we all got into our costumes and ran it through a few times. We had SO many compliments and questions about our Saidi attire. To be honest when I first tried on my costume six weeks ago I wasn't thrilled. As you can see these are full coverage! However, after practicing in it and wearing it around backstage I actually started to feel sexy in it. I was looking at the pictures and indeed, full coverage or not, there's an appeal to these dresses!! We look hot! Haha

THE PERFORMANCE

In the business and excitement I forgot to eat! I realized this in the wings and had an Oh Shi..kind of moment. At least it turned out ok but I was feeling really fuzzy-headed and was actually having trouble remembering the choreography. This is completely opposite to last time where I ate too much and felt sluggish. I will need to find the balance next time.

We were waiting in the wings while the class before did their routine to a Saad song. We were all dancing around and being silly. It was just such a different vibe than everyone standing there shaking like leaves, like the first gala I ever did!

I have to admit, these performances don't get any easier for me! My legs went VERY heavy and I was shaky. I *know* I made a few mistakes and I realize that I wasn't smiling during the first sequence of hops and cane twirls (too busy focused on trying to do it right) but it was A LOT of fun!

I left the stage laughing my butt off. My nervousness made my legs feel like lead and there is one part where have one leg lifted high and we're doing deep hip drops jumping on one foot in a circle. Well 1. My leg wouldn't go that high. It felt too heavy. 2. My legs were shaking too much to balance properly. I just thought it was so funny because I was worried a lot about this part just because it's a challenging move but never considered that I should factor nervousness into it too. At least I made it and didn't fall over or anything. it just didn't look as good as in practice but I guess it never does!

After the show Chris gave me very pretty flowers and my Mom gave us. and another dancer in our class, a ride home. I love the drive home talking about the show and gushing about belly dance!

Anyway, this was an amazing show and I really love my class right now. The girls are great. My teacher, Nada is fantastic. I'm really looking forward to getting back to class on Wednesday!

2 Days Until the Gala!

2011-06-22T22:07:00.004-04:00

Ahhhhh! Actually I know the choreography very well, even if my technique isn't perfect. The problem is my costume. I'm having a multitude of malfunctions. First, the cane catches on the sleeve. I'll have to pin it back. Second, and most disastrous, my sleeve got caught BEHIND MY BACK on my coin belt while I was practicing! I REALLY hope this doesn't happen on stage!

Other than that I'm going easy on myself since I just started at the intermediate level. My teacher told me I was doing really well today. That made me happy...It's not like she *had* to say it, so I'll take it!

I'm looking forward to the performance. It's always a good time. I used to worry so much about the actually show, and the anxiety would take away from the FUN of hanging out with my classmates, and watching the other classes practice.

Well, send me good vibes!

Tough Class and Saving $

2011-06-09T08:39:00.005-04:00

The choreography is coming along. It's by no means perfect yet but I've been so busy lately that it's been tough getting enough practice in! Still, I do try to go through it a couple times a day. I have my entire costume now: dress, coin belt and headpiece but I haven't tried it all on yet. I'll definitely do that at some point really soon.

Doesn't it just figure when there's a bunch of really cool workshops coming up I have to reign in the spending. I'm getting married in October and well, I desperately need to save money!

Last night in class we drilled the moves to our choreography over and over and over....All I have to say today is ow and wah.

I practiced over the weekend to non-Arabic music. I haven't done that in about a year! It made me realize how important it is to understand the lyrics for expressing the song. One a similar note, I wanted to play this pretty sounding Nancy Ajram song at my wedding but it's called, "What's Wrong With You" in English. That can't be good! Yes, lyrics are important. That was my lesson over the weekend.

It's interesting how each class/practice is worth *something* even if it's the tiniest lesson.

BD Blathering

2011-05-29T08:20:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I purchased a Hakim album. Hayel. An older one. I don't know his music very well but everyone at dance school raves about him. Plus, Nada is opening for him at Luminato in June. I want to get even more pumped!

Gala practice continues to go well. I *think* it's all memorized now. My timing is getting better. So now I'll work on perfecting the moves. I practiced for Chris yesterday afternoon. He said I was smiling but I wasn't even thinking about it. That's good! Usually I really have to remind myself.

My cane work is getting better. Especially thanks to a tip from a more experienced classmate! Sometimes it's great being the newbie of the level. Just ask a lot of questions and accelerate progress!

In the evening I free styled. I really should be making up routines but I like just going with it when the mood strikes me. Still, if I pull off a cool combination I should be writing it down. It's just that it breaks the flow!

I started learning poi last week. I'm not sure what I think of it yet or if I'll continue to learn. The poi veil (voi) stuff I saw on YouTube looks pretty cool! On the one hand I like the idea of belly dancing fusion, tribal etc. On the other I think learning one style and sticking to it is really good too.

Well I think that's all the updates for now. I'm going to my Mom's place today and my Granny said she'd shorten my costume for me. It's perfect except the length. I don't want to trip on stage! :P

Costumes, Canes and Choreography, Oh My!

2011-05-19T23:00:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday we learned the rest of our dance for the student gala. Unfortunately I don't remember it as well as the first half. I hope Nada sends us the choreography notes soon!

Since we're doing a folklore number (Saidi canes woohoo) we bought the used professional troupe's old and discarded traditional dresses for our number. So now I officially have a folklore costume. now I need a headpiece/scarf and a coin belt. Amazingly enough, I don't have a coin belt!

The only thing that might not be good is a long sleeve dress in the summer. Backstage at the venue is VERY hot. And hopefully the likely sweating that will most definitely occur will not cause our canes to fly out of our hands!

I'm hoping to have some free time to practice this weekend, and I've been working my buns off to make that happen. *crosses fingers*

I received my Saidi Tshirt from Cafe Press. Woohoo!

Belly Dancing Epiphany

2011-05-16T15:08:00.004-04:00

I love the feeling when something FINALLY MAKES SENSE! I'll discuss my latest in belly dancing eureka moments. On Friday I received my custom top and arm cuffs from L.Rose Designs. By the way it fits immaculately, and if you haven't ordered from this fabulous company already, I highly recommend them!

Anyway, Friday night Chris and I were listening to Saad and Nancy (they're already like old friends!) because I really love Arabic pop music, and I had my new gear on just for show. I felt inspired and started to dance around. Well, I have never worn arm bands before, and just the presence of them made me hyper-aware of how my arms move and relate to my body.

I've never been much of an arm-based dancer. In my first posts on here I complained of looking like a scarecrow and not quite knowing how to incorporate my inhumanly long arms with dancing. See, when you sway your hips and rotate your pelvis, the dance feels more casual and playful. Once the arms are in there swooping around and creating the drama of the dance, then you're in deep. I hardly ever practiced using arms in the first year that I danced!

Long story short I was able to move my arms with undulations, rotations, and circles that matched the movements with the rest of my body. Incredible! The whole light bulb moment motivated an entire weekend of practice and research. Research consisting mostly of watching YouTube videos of famous dancers from past and present.

My next topic for the day. Developing style. I'm not even at the point yet where I'm regularly choreographing my own dances. For the most part I just put on music and freestyle. Still, I'm starting to think about what kind of dancer I'll be. Will I be bold and cover the whole area of the room in a millisecond like Randa Kamel? Will I be fluid and gracefully arabesque around the stage like Jillina? Will I be a pops and locks master like Sadie? Will I have a perma-sneer on my face like Rania...Okay, that last one is just a joke. :P

I guess only time will tell. All I know right now is that I love belly dancing, and I'm grateful for it in my life!

P.S. I found out over the weekend that my studio will be offering a dancing to live music, four-part workshop. I'm so in!

The Show + Choreography

2011-05-12T07:27:00.000-04:00

Well the show on Saturday night was just FANTASTIC! My Mother and I grabbed some eats at a curry house close by and man oh man, that was just the beginning of an amazing night.

We arrived and found a seat at the table with a bunch of our classmates! It was so great to just sit and chat about belly dance with girls at the same level as me. We have the same enthusiasm and lack of experience. Actually most of the girls there are much better than me, and had been there all day for Randa and the other performer's workshops.

I ran into many of my teachers from the past and the present. Including my very first teacher.

She has a blog, and can be checked out...Here!

My current teacher and artistic director of the studio, Nada opened the show. She's such a captivating dancer. Three classes into the intermediate level and I'm still intimidated by her talent.

RANDA WAS AMAZING! She must have performed 8 songs with at least 3, maybe 4 costume changes. Her outfits are out of this world. Of course, I liked her Saidi costume and number best. At the end of the show the live band, Layali El Sharq played and we all danced. One of my classmates is a little girl who has been belly dancing for four years. Man she's good! lol.

As a souvenir I bought a new cane. Yay

I found out at the show that Nada will be opening for Hakim here in Toronto at Luminato in June. *Squee*

Gala Choreography!

We started working on our Saidi number last night. I'm not going to lie. It's going to be hard. We only learned the first minute. The choreography is absolutely amazing, fun etc etc but it's hard! I'm still not very confident with swinging the cane over and around my head. I feel like I'm going to take someone out! I'll keep the blogosphere posted on my progress!

Finally, I bought a rainbow hip scarf last night at the studio, and now they have re-usable tote bags with pockets that are included with the purchase. It will be used as a bag to store my scarfs. I was using my carry-on but it's such a pain to go in there every time I need something.

Also, L. Rose Designs confirmed that they have shipped my top. Finally! I was getting a little worried there. Now I'm just waiting for my Granny to alter and return my pants, and I'm set for the gala. That is unless Nada has other plans for our costume.

This post is going to make me late for work, so I'll have to cut myself off here...

*Shimmies Away*

Randa Kamel Tonight and Saidi Cane Routine!

2011-05-07T17:50:00.005-04:00

Tonight is the big Randa Kamel show. I can't wait!

As mentioned, my gala is coming up in June and *"drum roll* we're doing a Saidi cane dance. I'm so freakin' excited that it's just...Unbelievable. One of the reasons that I wanted to start the intermediate level before a gala was because it really pressures me to excel and improve at a rapid pace in preparation for the gala. Now that I'll be working my buns off for a cane routine I don't regret it one bit.

My class has much more experienced dancers than I. Some have performed solos...Others are just really good! It's another way to keep me motivated and pressured to improve my dancing. Not to mention they're good role models to aspire to.

We learned a small piece of choreography and I was so excited about it that I couldn't sleep on Wednesday night. At first I found it difficult, as I do with all traveling combinations but I'm getting the hang of it now.

I practiced cane twirling last night for Chris while we were listening to my best of Saad CD. Tres Fun.

Have to get ready for the show now!

In Bloom: First Intermediate Class

2011-04-28T07:18:00.005-04:00

I survived my first intermediate class. I wasn't sure I should be there. On the one hand, I've been belly dancing now non-stop for 1 year and 7 months. Some students have entered intermediate six months ago but others are still in continuing beginner. I know, the comparison is pointless. I asked myself do I feel ready? In ways yes. I'm learning a lot on my own in between class, and I know the fundamentals. I *feel* like a belly dancer at heart, even though I don't actually look like one yet! On the other hand, I still need a lot of work. Especially with transitions. I just don't change feet and sides quickly enough to keep up sometimes.

My new instructor is the studio director, Nada. I feel like there can be no slacking around her. She was in the Reda Troupe for shimmy-sake:P

We were given three new rules:

1. We are always to be in perfect dancer's posture. On the subway, in the change room and absolutely 100% in class.

2. We are to always smile in class and keep our eyes lifted. I think I find this the most challenging of all.

3. We always return to second position, and keep our toes pointed out. I have to hammer this one into my brain.

Last night we learned a sharky with downs and a shimmy. I had a lot of trouble at first because naturally, my hips wanted to go up. I'll practice muchos this week.

We were doing hip drop drills with different arms to a baladi rhythm. I had trouble with this because as I mentioned, I'm a turtle switching sides.

We did shimmy drills while changing weight, moving our feet and a bit of layering. Thankfully, I have been practicing this every.single.day. I'm on par here! Yay!

I think for the gala we may end up doing a Saidi cane routine. I kinda hope so. That would really accelerate my love and budding ability for cane dancing. The folklore class is doing Alexandrian. I kinda want to join in now although two galas performances with props is a disaster waiting to happen!

I've also decided that now I'm intermediate I'll make more of an effort to look presentable in class. This means not wearing my "bummy" sweat pants. Last night I wore belly dancing pants. Dressing the part helps!

BIG NEWS

I'm taking my Mom to see Randa Kamel For Mother's Day! So excited!

*Off to daydream about being a good dancer now*

First Improvisation Class

2011-04-17T18:42:00.005-04:00

Last class was very exciting because we tried improving on our own.

We have been working on a choreography to a drum solo, and Abigail (our teacher) asked us to make up our own moves for one part of the song. I think I did okay...I do this on my own but it's always different in class! I could only think of a couple of moves at the time. :P

We have also been continuing music lessons. We are learning about Arabic Rhythms and identifying beats in the music that we dance to. It's really cool.

I went to a wedding yesterday and found that there were a lot of belly dancing-based moves happening with me on the dance floor! How did I even dance before I started taking belly dancing lessons? Another thing I noticed was that not only did I really want to dance but I felt much more confidant and comfortable than ever dancing in social situations. Yay!

Oooh this morning I made an Ebay purchase. I bought three CDS:

1. The Best of Nancy Ajram

2. The Best of Saad El Soughiar

3. The Best of Amr Diab

I always dance to their music but my tracks either skip from burned CDs or they have been recorded off Internet radio and transition into other songs at the end. I want clean, good-quality copies of these tunes!

I also picked up the DVD pictured above and this dress, which is not a belly dancing dress but check out the Egyptian style print!

New Dimensions of Practice

2011-04-03T22:10:00.004-04:00

I was reflecting last night over how practices on my own, in between classes, are constantly evolving. Over a year ago I was only being able to practice for 20 minutes at a time. I'd do isolations in my hips, stomach, shoulders, chest etc, maybe practice some steps and turns, and then run out of material. These days I go for an hour, and still don't cover everything. I have to break it down like it class, and focus on only a few things per session.

Not to mention it's not only isolations. I'm adding in layering, with steps, with shimmies and practice with props. I always finish my practices with an improvisation. It's getting better and that's really exciting!

Last class we worked on our swinging 3/4 shimmies again, LOTS AND LOTS of hip drops + variations of them, including a new turning step with drops. It made me so dizzy that I had to ask for spotting advice! Thank goodness I did because it has really helped!

We also worked on some Saidi cane moves and choreography. My love for the cane is totally reinvigorated every time I learn something new. I really think that's the ultimate prop of choice for my dancing.

The class was intense and by the end of it we were all sweating our belts off. I LOVE classes that are both physically and mentally challenging, and that one was exhausting, so all the better!

I'm still waiting on my custom shirt from L.Rose! So excited! *squee*

I totally missed practicing this weekend because I was really sick (Re: Hungover). I'm hoping to do a good one tomorrow afternoon. That will give my dancing muscles a full 48 hours to rest so I can be re-charged for class.

Hey, does anyone out there have any good drills that I can try out? Like, layering chest circles with hip drops, or grapevines with mayas. Something like that?

Feeling Better

2011-03-26T08:28:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday I had a really great class. I had a eureka moment, actually.

It was a very snowy day and most of our 15+ student class didn't make it. I'm always cramped on the far side of the studio. Sometimes I'm in the front, other times near the back. Since we were able to space out, I was more centered and this REALLY REALLY helped me.

One of my weaknesses is learning steps, and even after learning them, following along during improvised dances in class. I remember having a much easier time with it in the last module and now I'm thinking it was because I was more centered. It's easier for me to follow along from this point of view.

I had never considered how placement in the studio could matter that much.

Another student really made my day too, contributing to getting over my latest in learning process hurdles. To paraphrase, she told me that I stood out on stage at the last gala because I looked genuinely happy and had a big smile. I was really touched. Even though smiling doesn't make a good dancer, it reminded me that technique isn't always the most important thing when you're on stage. I was remembered by one person! Groovy.

The practice itself was VERY good. I'm not going to say that I mastered everything that was giving me grief the week before but I felt like I progressed. I also picked up two new hip scarfs, including the one I was going on about last post. New stuff = :)

Being excited about not sucking anymore, I practiced last night, and it was most excellent. I'm at the point now where even though I'm still practicing single isolations with arms, I'm putting more focus into double isolations, and hip and feet layering. This is what I practiced:

-Hip ups and downs with chest squares (can almost maintain double time hips with single time chest)

-Grapevines with hip bump, twist, ab lock, reverse figure, chest lift, figure 8, and hip drops. I can do these. They're a little sloppy but the mechanics are there. Grapevine with maya and 3/4 shimmy...well it's a work in progress. I'll get it for a second and immediately lose it.

-Shimmy with a lazy step. FINALLY. Again it's really rough but two weeks ago I couldn't do it at all.

-We have been drilling walking across the class and back doing one sided Suheir Zaki hips. I love this move! I'm not enjoying the drill because it's hard! Wah! I did much better this week and even better in my own practice.

-We are working on swinging 3/4 shimmies. I'm slowly getting the hang of it.

So this is what I'm working on. I'm excited about it, now that I'm feeling a bit more confident again. I'm a little amused that it only takes one good class to reinvigorate my passion for the dance. I guess it's not that hard to do :)

Purchases and me being a downer

2011-03-22T11:49:00.005-04:00

Funny how buying new belly dancing gear can be motivating. It must be the because you can really imagine dancing in it (I imagine myself as a much better dancer than I actually am!), looking beautiful and being confident.

My latest additions include:

-Pictured, the amazing corset pants. OMG I love them!

-A fellow belly dancer, instructor actually, steered me toward L. Rose Designs. This site is absolutely awesome because you can custom build your own costumes from their basic designs. I'm totally thrilled because I'm always trying to find tops that suit my body type, show my best assets and well, hide my less than ideal features. I made and purchased the most perfect top. It's their basic wrap top in black, hooded and sleeveless with extra long strings. Then I bought the UnGlove arm bands in black lace to match my pants. Weeeeee! Can't wait!

-Nada, the artistic director from Hannan's Dance Studio brought back very cool hip scarfs from Egypt. I have one set aside (until she lets the front desk girls know the price) that fits me really well. It's a rare thing, actually! It's black velvet with a green and red sequin leaves and flower design.

Now for being a downer...

Since I have started the bridge to intermediate module I have been feeling like a really lousy dancer! I must be 9 or 10 classes in now, and I still feel as sucky as when I first started! In other modules the first few classes were really challenging and it freaked me out, but then I felt like a absorbed the new lessons, and was up to speed before the first module ended. I donno, I'm getting a little worried here.

Truth be told, I have learned a hell of a lot of new stuff. I'll give Abigail that much. She's incredible at really filling my head with all sorts of things to think about. She has a very different teaching style than I'm used to, so I'm hoping that maybe the change is just taking me a little longer to get a grip on.

It doesn't help that I've been so busy with work, and on top of that, the class two weeks ago flared an old tendon injury in my ankle. I didn't really get an opportunity to practice as much as I should have. Even yesterday I had scheduled a practice session, and work and chores just ate my time.

Today is suppose to be yoga day, and although I desperately need the stretch, I'm seriously considering practicing for tomorrow's class. I don't like practicing the day before a lesson. All I need right now is to have my dancing muscles tired, and to feel like a complete dork in class again.

Okay, I'm babbling. I do that when I'm bummed out.

I actually have 3 make up classes to go from my cancelled ballet module. I'm thinking I may try some intermediate classes. If you're reading this I know how counter intuitive that probably seems. Like, hello, you suck and you're going UP a level? Thing is, come next module I either have to go up or down because this Wednesday night is really clashing with my work schedule.

Ack!

Belly Dancing Enthusiasm = Sore Body

2011-02-28T08:54:00.005-05:00

I went to another folklore class and learned more of the "Sharky," choreography. We're about 2/3 in, and I'll take the last class in the module on Wednesday.

The only problem, is it is now Monday, and I haven't practiced dancing at all this week. It's all due to being so sore from Wednesday. A part of the dance has us jumping on one foot and well, my body has never liked that...Never mind doing it repeatedly.

Actually, I totally did dance this week...At the belly dancing open house on Saturday! There were sooooo many people there! More than I've ever seen! We brought 3 younger girls along with us for their first time belly dancing. The youngest seemed very keen on it, and even learned a few moves! We stayed for three 30 minute classes: Ooey Gooey Moves by Katy, Shimmys by Nada and Drum Solo choreography taught by Abigail.

Abigail mentioned that her next module will be all about hip work and drum solos. Yay! I'm really looking forward to it.

There is also a hafla coming up soon! And a music appreciation workshop with Dr. George Sawa! Dang, I wish I had (a lot) more money. :P If I had a bottomless pocket I'd be in three classes a week, at every workshop, event and I'd buy lots of rad costumes. The school would have to hold a meeting, to devise a plan to get rid of me.

I'm going to try practicing today and if my body is still saying no way, then I'll at least watch some YouTube videos!