While a bellydance instructional DVD will never replace a real, live teacher in front of you in a class or private lesson, these DVDs do have their place. Your teacher may not specialize in certain props and/or techniques or you may want something to supplement and complement what you are already learning. But where do…
I’m always looking for new music! While I certainly have plenty of the classics to keep me busy, I love discovering new versions. It’s also exciting to hear original songs from the traditional Middle Eastern orchestras. And who can resist the fun songs that the pop starts keep churning out? Some recent favorites: Bellydance Superstars…
“What should I wear to my first bellydance class?” I have been asked this question several times recently through email. I had the same question when I started taking classes. My quick response for someone taking a class with me: comfortable exercise clothing such as yoga pants and a close-fitting t-shirt, socks or ballet slippers…
Well, she (or he) is still a bellydancer, but it sure is a nice skill to have! In fact, many, many times when I’ve performed in restaurant settings, if I haven’t yet played my cymbals, one of the customers will ask, “Where are your bells?” accompanied by hand movements that loosely indicate playing cymbals. History…
Music I’m loving right now: Bellydance Seduction (check out Nesrin dancing to it here) This long track has a classic Vintage Oriental (or American Cabaret) continuous fast-slow-fast-slow-etc. set-up. It really takes you on a journey of musical variety with a live band, Middle Eastern club in the 70’s/80’s feel. Dancer Norma of Detroit recently said on Bhuz,…
We’re two weeks into our special veil session at Strictly Ballroom and have been swishing and swirling around! Here’s some info for you regarding where to find more info about using veils with bellydance, where to purchase veils, and links to inspiring veil performances. History of the Veil in Bellydance:“The Veil and Oriental Dance” by Elizabeth…
Ah, the age-old question asked by women (and some men) for special events or even a night out with friends. We want to dress appropriately for the occasion, feel comfortable, and look our best. The same is true for bellydance, whether it’s your weekly class, a casual hafla, or a full stage performance. What to…
You’ve been invited to perform at a hafla and the time limit is around five minutes. If you can’t find a singular song that allows you enough variety to showcase your abilities, put together your own mini-set. With a little editing (Audacity is free to use), you can have your own mini-set. Suggested Short…
Taqsim, Taqasim, Taksim – however you spell it, the meaning is the same. It is a section of a song where an instrument plays an improvised solo. How do you dance to it? That depends on the setting (recorded or live music) and the instrument. Listen carefully to what the instrument is expressing. The musician will…
Inspired by the Women of Selket troupe costumes at their November 2009 show, I was on the look-out for paillette hipscarves to create something similar. Several eBay sellers carry them, but when Andrea of Stellar Advantage received a new shipment while I was at the Sahra Saeeda week-long intensive that Andrea hosted in Florida (June…