I. It Don't Mean a Thing!

II. Glancing

III. Seven Can Samba

IV. Waltzing/Floating

V. Not too Smooth

VI. Tango!

Duration: 18'00

Program Note: Six Ways to Dance was inspired by the few, frankly embarrassing experiences I have had in social dance settings. Although my ineptitude as a dancer tends to limit what is possible for my partner and I to accomplish during any given dance, I love the thrill of experiencing the music in real time, being pulled through the rhythms with nothing to hold onto but the basic steps I just learned in an intro class and a vague sense of trust in my partner, who is often a total stranger.

My inexperience often leads to my own hesitation, thereby limiting the potential of the dance, but I have found that there is something strangely charming about these awkward instances of miscommunication. They allow for the successful moments to feel even more rewarding.

I attempted to capture the spirit of several popular dance styles, while infusing them with the moments of confusion and joy I experience whenever I find myself on a dance floor. This piece is for the people who decide that enjoying the music is far more important than fully knowing the steps.