Creating and Building Choreography

Build a 32-Count Block

A 32-count phrase (block) refers to the numbers of beats or pulses that go by in one “phrase” of music. Music is naturally divided into phrases which can be broken into smaller parts called measures, which normally consist of 4 beats of music. In this instance, if you put 8 measures together, you would have 32 beats or counts of music. These 32-count phrases are the building blocks for complete songs. The phrases create patterns that you can follow and use as an instructor. A typical song might have a 32-count phrase which is the introduction, then a 32-count phrase which is the verse, then a 32- count phrase which is the bridge, then a 32-count phrase which is the chorus, and so on.

Music that is phrased in 32 counts makes it possible for instructors to choreograph combinations and routines that end up “on the right beat” and flow seamlessly and effortlessly. Without 32 counts, it can be difficult to follow the music and your routine could finish on the wrong foot or facing the wrong side of the room.

Choreography Blocks

Choreography blocks should be structured in 32-count blocks so that you begin and end exactly on beat. Create patterns of movement that follow the patterns of the music to add incredible energy to your classes, along with a sense of smoothness and organization.

When putting together combinations, consider the following:

  1. COUNTS – The number of counts each move requires and the number of repetitions. These should add up to 32 counts.
  2. BALANCE – between right and left lead leg and arm. Each block should either have equal amounts of moves leading off each leg OR be designed to repeat with a change in lead leg.
  3. VARIETY – contrast between different muscles used, rhythms, and traveling patterns
  4. DIRECTION – when adding direction, moves should be combined in such a way that participants return to the starting position by the end of the 32 count phrase.
  5. FLOW – choreography blocks so that the last move of 1 choreography block flows seamlessly into the first move of the next choreography block.

 

Ratio of Choreography to Rhythm Blocks 

When creating choreography for a Drums Alive® class it is necessary to not only follow the above rules, it is also necessary to consider the ratio of movement to rhythmical patterns. It is of utmost importance to always include enough drumming and technical rhythmical work. A good ratio is about a 2:1 ratio of choreography to drumming

 

Group Choreography 

Creating a 32-count block may be difficult for many individuals especially if they do not come from a group fitness background. Therefore it is important to make sure to create groups that are balanced in talent. Make sure you have at least one or two group fitness instructors per group.

  1. Have each group create their own 32 count block of choreography.
  2. The choreography should have a drumming phrase in between either one or two moving phases. It is NOT enough to just add a drum beat every once in a while.
  3. If time is limited you may choose to have each group only come up with a 16 count block then
    • Have groups join together to teach each other their pattern
      • Group 1 with Group 2 = 32 count block
      • Group 3 with Group 4 = 32 Count block
  4. Time Permitting: Join 4 groups together for a wild Group Choreography
    • Group 1, 2, 3 + 4 + Master Trainers Cognition 1 + 2.

 

 

Special thanks to Jackie Wong for her contributions to this chapter.