review comment

Modern Dance II

Departments: Dance

Professors: Jennifer Emerson, Jodi Melnick, and Caitlin Trainor

April 30, 2012

Melnick, Jodi Silver_nugget
Modern Dance II

I'm also surprised that there aren't more reviews for Jodi--her class was one of the most unique and exciting experiences that I've had taking dance at Barnard. A "kook" she is, but of the best kind--class is always a good time, and her students are lucky to have a glimpse into the working of such an endearingly creative mind.

She was also able to create routines that were challenging both to the more experienced dancers in the room and those whose only experience dancing had been with Modern I, something for which she should be commended but also, I suppose, should be expected from a teacher as experienced as she. Her creative process is challenging to students; with a progressive warmup that was continuous and continuously changing but packed with a core of repeated movements, I grew as a dancer because of it and was always engaged in class.

Seriously, though, spending 75 minutes in her company twice a week is worth it, at all.

Workload:

Appropriate for a dance class; two free absences with three classes open to be made-up, and then an additional option of seeing a show and writing a review to compensate for additional absences. She's casual about it, but good at reminding you and keeping track.

January 02, 2012

Trainor, Caitlin Silver_nugget
Modern Dance II

Caitlin's style of teaching is extremely endearing and helpful for those beginning their study of dance. Her choreography is very physical, and she's proactive about making students learn about their bodies and explaining movement through use of her own.

She is, however, very strict about her requirements and not appreciative or approachable about almost any exceptions to her policies. Only take her class if you are confident you will be able to regularly attend and give your all--there's no getting back from that one.

Workload:

Serious, in its own way; attendance is mandatory and missing more than two classes will result in an automatic deduction in your grade and in her opinion of you, which matters a lot.

January 20, 2009

Emerson, Jennifer Silver_nugget
Modern Dance II

Prof. Emerson is a great teacher. Her Modern II class is fantastic! Be ready to take a very upbeat, intense, Graham-based technique class, full of inspiration, images, funny anecdotes, and a lot of dancing!!! Yes, this is a class where you will spend a lot of time dancing the steps studied during the course. How refreshing. There are two composition classes where you will have to came up with your own choreography and dance it with 2-4 other students... These two classes are without any doubt challenging, rewarding, and fun. Even if you are beyond Level II, you may still find this class incredibly satisfying.

Workload:

A paper after a video showing.

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