Azhia - Can you tell us more about your DVD?

[joanneraks]

It looks really intriguing. Any more hints about what's included? Especially under the categories of preparation and drills?

[Azhia]

Hi Joanne,
Thanks for your inquiry. ;0) I'm totally thrilled that you're asking me here!

"Preparation" is a term with which I replaced the word "warm up." It's a gentle, body warming, conditioning series of poses and easy stretches that I start all my classes with, and I do it myself before a show (given space and time).

I had been asked several times if this preparation was on a DVD (and now I'm happy to say that it is ;0).

In the drills I go through all the "basic shapes" (fig. 8, undulation, circles), at various speeds and foot positions; an "arm training" section; and really easy drill combos combining all the basic shapes for transition training.

I don't teach anything new per se but I consider it a very mindful way to review all of the foundational ME dance moves and it doesn't matter what style one prefers/performs.

I also throw hints on how to change the drills with minor but challenging adjustments that build your dance repertoire (esp. useful for building choreographies and preparing for improvisational work).

After the preparation and drills, you're ready to rehearse or teach or perform. You can even just do the prep & drills as an easy exercise routine (though focus is on technique and not merely fitness). You can watch and follow from the front, side, or back. And there are 2 performances at the end.

Great for students who know their basic shapes, and I even have reports from people who perform that it is very helpful material.

Happy to answer any more questions!

[anala]

Sign me up!! And congratulations on completing this project!

[Azhia]

Thank you. :0) I'm planning the next one, too. I think most know what that one is going to be about. ;0)

[Mireille]

Originally Posted by Azhia

Thank you. :0) I'm planning the next one, too. I think most know what that one is going to be about. ;0)

*Glitter Explosion*

[dancerose]

So how long is the dvd?

[Azhia]

It is approximately 62 minutes.

[bintbeled]

I went through part of the DVD this morning and look forward to working with it some more. Really like the Preparation section, and there are some interesting ideas in the first part of the "basic shapes." (Then I had to stop to teach a private lesson.)

The quality is top-notch, and it's great to be able to see the instruction from different angles. And I love those pants you're wearing, Azhia.

[Azhia]

Awww, thanks, Latifa! :0)

[dancerose]

Will you be able to do a more in-depth review when you have time?

[Azhia]

What would you like to know? I'm happy to answer specific questions about the DVD.
I probably shouldn't be reviewing my own work, lest I appear biased.

[joanneraks]

Azhia, here I am again, thanks for elaborating. It sounds like something that would really help me out. Do you happen to know the minute by minute breakdown? How those 62 minutes are divided up? Thanks!

[Azhia]

mmmmmm....

Rough guesstimate break down:
16 min. preparation
24 min. basic shapes & drills
5 min. beyond basics sample drill (stuff you can add to the main drill section)
7 min. cool down
7 min. performance

Joanne, I'm happy to put you in touch with colleagues who have used it so you can get their opinion, too. :0)

[joanneraks]

references, sure that's cool! It's already on my shopping list, though! :)

[Azhia]

:0) That's really cool, Joanne!
PM me your email and I'll point you in the right direction. Are you also on MySpace? If so, shoot me that, too...

[dancerose]

Anyone who bought this, would you care to do a review?

Helen

[rakgirl]

i bought it and i really love it. i've used some of the warm up and cool down in my classes. most of the drills i don't do with them because i mostly teach beginners. i'll look at it again and do a review probably next week.