For a dancer, music is far more than just an ordered collection of notes: it’s the very heartbeat of a performance. Rhythm, melody and movement combine, and the dancer and music become one. Every time the familiar sounds of a favorite piece flow out across the dance floor, they feel as fresh and inviting as the first time I heard them.
In ballroom dance, rhythms and melodies are associated with specific emotions. The sensuous rhythm of the rumba gives rise to feelings of love and passion, while the lively beats of the jive evoke joy, excitement, and playful mischief. From the heartfelt tangos of Argentina to the elegant Viennese Waltzes of Europe’s grand ballrooms, each dance, and its accompanying music, takes audiences on a specific emotional journey.
In my experience, the relationship between dancer and music is an intimate one. It’s a connection that goes beyond physical movement. As dancers, we are tasked with communicating the stories and meanings hidden in the music, through footwork, physical gestures, and body language. At its core, dance is an expression of human emotion, and music is the language through which those emotions speak. If successful, the resulting audience experience is a transformative one.
The history of ballroom music is as intricate as the steps of the dances it accompanies. Originating in the Renaissance courts of Italy, it was refined as it spread into the ballrooms of France and beyond. Today, the foundation of ballroom dance music rests on selections such as Johann Strauss’s majestic Viennese waltzes, Frederic Chopin’s “Minute Waltz,” Tchaikovsky’s “Waltz of the Flowers” from The Nutcracker and his Sleeping Beauty Waltz, Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “Vocalise” Waltz, and Carlos Gardel’s intense Tango “Por Una Cabeza” all of which demonstrate the enduring beauty and emotive power of dance music.
Throughout my dancing career, historical influences have provided the foundation for my performances. The Argentine Tango, for instance, which encapsulates a blend of African rhythms, traditional Argentinian milonga, and European harmonies; and the Viennese Waltz, whose lilting triple meter summon memories of royal ballrooms, have both been integral to informing my practice.
Classical music has always been dancers’ top choice for performances, demonstrations, shows, and competitions, as it allows audiences from around the world to connect with and become emotionally engaged in routines. The simultaneous complexity and accessibility of classical music allow for almost infinite creative interpretations and experiences for dancers and their audiences.
I cherish memories of dancing a Tango to Vivaldi’s timeless Four Seasons. The Tango traditionally depicts tales of love, heartbreak, longing, and desire. In this context, these affects were enhanced by the fiery passion of Vivaldi’s music. Although the pairing might seem an obvious choice, my partner and I were transported and inspired by the music. We were similarly drawn to the music of Tchaikovsky’s Romeo et Juliet, to which we once danced a waltz. With the help of the music, we were able to embody William Shakespeare’s characters and recount the doomed lovers’ tragic tale through dance.
The spirit of my dancing, the very essence of my performances, has always been the music. In my most inspired moments, music becomes more than just accompaniment: it’s a companion, mirroring and stimulating every feeling, every step. While music provides a rhythmic foundation for dancing, the emotional material it provides is even more significant. It’s been an honor to have such a faithful partner in music throughout my journey. Even today, when met with the sounds of familiar melodies, I’m reminded that in the world of dance and music, I’m never truly alone.
About Anastasia Muravyeva
Anastasia Muravyeva is a former United States and International ballroom dancing champion. A four time winner of the World Cup, she has also earned first place at the prestigious Blackpool dance festival. Today, she works primarily as an entrepreneur and producer, having recently co-producer Broadway shows such as Kinky Boots, Life of Pi, and Here Lies Love. She is the CEO of Dance ‘n Dazzle, an entertainment agency, and the founder of Dancing Hearts, a non-profit foundation dedicated to bringing dance to underprivileged children.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasiamuravyevaprofessional/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anastasiamuravyevaofficial/
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