with Sadie
The Taksim ~ the emotional and poetic improvised solo in Middle Eastern
Music ~ is often accompanied by the Cifti Telli rhythm with its hypnotic
cadence of quick and slow beats. Dancing to a Cifti Teli Taksim uses
slow, flowing movements that reflect an emotional connection to and
understanding of the music. In this DVD, Sadie teaches you the basic
elements of a Taksim and the Cifti Telli, and how to dance to the two
together in a Cifti Telli Taksim.
Taksim and Cifte Telli
Sadie first explains the characteristics of a Taksim and the dancer's
role in a Taksim performance. She discusses the origins of the Cifti
Telli rhythm, the kinds of music in which it is found, and how the
dancer uses it in her performance. Then with the help of tabla player
Amir Sofi, she explains and breaks down the structure of both the slow
8/4 and the fast 4/4 versions of this popular rhythm.
Slow Technique
Sadie explains and demonstrates how to execute many foundational Belly
Dance movements with the fluidity and grace that are the key to a
beautiful Taksim dance. Because slow movements can be harder to execute
than fast, she teaches you how to develop the muscle control you will
need. She shows you how to work many muscle groups together at once so
that your slow movements cascade and ripple. Then she puts the
movements together into Combinations perfect for a slow Cifte Telli
Taksim. You will learn seamless transitions, varying your temp, and
using the breath of the movement for subtle effect.
Putting It All Together
Sadie shows you how to turn movements into dancing. You will learn
Poses and Extensions that add drama and emotion to your dancing. She
will also teach you the technique and timing for: * back bends * how to
descend to the floor gracefully - * the 3 and 5-step Arabesque * veil
combinations * and spins and turns that are perfect for your slow
dancing. For life in the fast lane, Sadie also shows you how to perform
several of the moves and combinations to the faster Turkish Cifte
Telli! She then puts it all together into a mini choreography you can
perform or just practice to.
Performance
Finally, you are treated to a beautiful costumed performance by Sadie featuring a Cifti Telli Taksim!