African dance is broad in its scope. Most dance that is associated with Africa originates from sub-Saharan Africa. Each culture has its own music and dance styles. Music is extremely important and bound to dance because most African languages do not have a separate word for music. The voice and the drum are the most used instruments in African music and dance. The purposes for dance in Africa are many.
Dances are used as forms of communication, for festivals, funerals, to remember, competition, art, and worship. Though there are so many different types of dance in Africa, there are characteristics that are similar across the board.
Most African dance has elements of tradition interwoven through it. The idea of community is foremost in dances. Dances are usually separated by gender or may function off of the concepts of age, kinship, and status. Dances often employ poly rhythm which is two or more rhythms competing at the same time. Another characteristic is use of the whole body in dance movements. Different body parts may move to different rhythms. The shoulders may follow one rhythm while the hips take another. Still other body parts may create movement that follows a rhythm not represented in the music.
Though the steps may be simple, the polyrhythmic movements can only be completed by the very best of dancers.
Each cultural group emphasizes different part of the body in their African dance. Some use the upper body; others use the hands and feet in unique ways. Still others favor the use of the hips. Most dances of Africa do not have audience boundaries. Onlookers are participants just as much as the dancers. Dances in Africa are also characterized by the lack of couple dancing. There is very little dancing for couples especially in close proximity. It was believed to be immoral by many of the cultures. Touching at all during dance is fairly rare in African styles.
Today there are dance classes offered by dance schools that teach a basic form of African dance. It is a mixture of different cultures and styles. It is very enjoyable for all ages and levels. It is a good way for students to learn the importance of community and society. It also helps students to develop a keen sense of rhythm. Body articulation is something that must be mastered on a basic level to be successful in the dances of Africa.
