African Dance History

I found an interesting website about African Dance History. The website is called History of African Dance. African dances have always been a very important factor in African history and culture. It expressed many different things for African tribes. It was used in times of need to help ward off danger to the tribe. It was also used to ask for prosperity, to express feelings and emotions, and most importantly during celebrations. Some important celebrations would include birth and marriage. One of the most important things dance was used for was for religion and beliefs.

One of the main differences and significant importances of African dance compared to other cultures dances was that African dance was polycentric, which meant that the dancers body is not treated as one single unit, but as several centers, or segmented areas. In each area, the movement of the dance was able to move to different rhythems within the music. These movements can move throughout the shoulder, arms, chest, pelvis, and legs.

Drums are extremely important in African music and dance because the drumbeat is the heartbeat of the dance. It helps to set the beat, and bring everyone together as one. During the Twentieth century there were many different dances that dominated the African culture. These dances included the Charleston, Lindy Hop, Jitterbug, the Twist, and the Jazz dance.

It is clear today that African dance has always and always will be one of the most influential and important factors in African society and culture throughout the world.