Shim Shammin': Essentials for Teaching Jazz Dance in Higher Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore teaching jazz dance in higher education. I investigate three research avenues: the role of music and its effect in the studio, crucial movement and conceptual elements, and historical foundations. Using open and axial coding, I evaluate master instructor interviews and participant journals to uncover essential landmarks along the three avenues of research. I then develop and teach a university level jazz course with a balanced curriculum. The conclusion of the study outlines experiment successes proposing ways to further the humanist line of inquiry in jazz dance in higher education.