What's Different Between International Line Dancing and Line Dancing?
The terms "line dancing" and "international line dancing" are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion. While all international line dancing is line dancing, not all line dancing is international line dancing. The key difference lies in the origin and style of the choreography.
Let's break it down:
Line Dancing: This broad term encompasses any form of dance where individuals perform a choreographed routine in lines or rows, typically facing the same direction. Line dancing has roots in various cultures and traditions, including folk dances adapted for social settings. It's a very broad category. Think of square dances, some country line dances, and even some simpler forms of folk dances.
International Line Dancing: This refers to a specific genre of line dancing that emerged from the United States in the 1980s and 1990s. It's characterized by several key distinctions:
1. Standardized Choreography and Music:
- International line dancing routines are precisely choreographed and typically set to specific music tracks. This allows dancers worldwide to perform the same routine, even if they've never met the choreographer or seen it performed before. The choreography is usually written down in a step-sheet format, allowing for easy learning and sharing globally. In contrast, many traditional line dances might have variations depending on the region or the group performing.
2. Emphasis on Specific Steps and Counts:
- International line dances often use a specific vocabulary of steps and rely heavily on consistent counts (usually 32, 64, or 96 counts). This precision and predictability help dancers easily learn and perform new routines. While some traditional line dances might use unique steps, international line dancing often builds upon a more standardized set of basic steps.
3. Global Community and Dissemination:
- International line dancing has a strong and widely spread global community. New routines are shared internationally through online platforms, workshops, and festivals. This constant exchange keeps the genre fresh and vibrant, with dancers constantly learning new dances from around the world.
4. Musical Style:
While international line dancing can use a variety of musical genres, it commonly uses upbeat country music, pop, and other easily recognizable styles suitable for social dancing. Traditional line dances may be linked to more specific regional genres or even instrumental music.
H2: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people ask about the differences:
H3: Are all country line dances international line dances?
No. Many country line dances predate the international line dancing movement and may not adhere to its standardized choreography or step sheet notations. While some country line dances could be considered part of the international line dancing repertoire, many are unique to specific regions or communities and are not systematically shared globally.
H3: How can I learn international line dancing?
You can learn international line dancing through various resources, including:
- Local dance studios: Many offer classes specifically in international line dancing.
- Online video tutorials: YouTube and other platforms have a wealth of tutorials covering various routines.
- Dance workshops and festivals: These events provide opportunities to learn from experienced instructors and meet other enthusiasts.
- Step sheets: These written notations detail each step in a dance routine.
H3: What are some popular international line dances?
Popular dances vary, but some commonly enjoyed international line dances include "Achy Breaky Heart," "Boot Scootin' Boogie," and numerous others readily available through online resources. The popularity of specific dances can also change over time as new routines are developed and shared within the community.
In essence, international line dancing is a more structured and globally connected subset within the broader category of line dancing. It emphasizes standardization, precise choreography, and a dedicated global community, making it distinct from other forms of line dancing.
