Encountering Modern Dance: An Introduction to Technique, Composition, and History

Modern Dance: Concepts, Contexts, and Creation is an introductory textbook designed for students exploring modern dance as a concert art form. Rather than focusing solely on technique, the text emphasizes dance-making, creativity, and cultural context. It presents modern dance as a grounded, expressive alternative to ballet that values individuality and innovation.

The book is organized into six thematic chapters—Body, Time, Space, Dance-Making, Partnering, and Writing about Dance—each supported by historical insights, multimedia resources, and practical assignments.

Key Features:

• Thematic Approach: Explores concepts such as anatomy, musicality, space, improvisation, partnering, and critical writing.

• Historical Interludes: Each of the first five chapters includes profiles of 3–4 influential choreographers, linking movement ideas to cultural, gender, and social issues.

• Multimedia Integration: Includes photographs, video and audio links, and performance excerpts to support learning and engagement.

• Assignments: Chapter response activities help students apply concepts and reflect on movement, choreography, and meaning.

• Final Chapter Case Study: Offers a video and written analysis to model how to view and write about modern dance.

This text provides students with a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to modern dance, encouraging both creative exploration and critical thinking.