Jazz IV – Eckman

In this class, you will experience jazz dance technique as an ever-evolving art form this is continuously pushing the envelope both physically and artistically. Jazz dance is based on a solid foundation, with movement driven from the body's core. We will delve into jazz dance's rich breadth of musical variety from traditional to contemporary; as well as its diversity of movement style, approach and history (including Giordano technique). Dancers will work to hone not only their technical skills, but learn how to integrate performance quality, expression, rhythm, coordination and retention of continuous phrase work. High energy and diverse, this class is designed to be challenging, quick thinking and fun as dancers explore the many sides of American jazz dance.

Autumn Eckman is a choreographer, teacher and dancer currently serving as Artistic Associate of Giordano Dance Chicago and Director of Giordano II. She received her classical training from the Houston Ballet Academy. Autumn has danced for renowned companies including Giordano Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Luna Negra Dance Theater, Lucky Plush Productions, State Street Ballet and the Cangelosi Dance Project. She is a performer for Ron De Jesus Dance and Chicago Repertory Ballet. Autumn has created seven works for the Giordano and has been commissioned by DanceWorks Chicago, Grand Valley State University, Western Michigan University, Northern Illinois University, KRESA, State Street Ballet, Chicago Repertory Ballet, Missouri Contemporary Ballet, Contemporary Dance South, Inaside Chicago Dance, Momenta, NoMi LaMad and the Vittaca Dance Project. Her work has been shown at Dance/USA, Arts Midwest Conference, Midwest RAD Festival, and the Harvest Chicago Contemporary Dance Festival. She was awarded Dance Chicago’s “New Artistic Voice” in 2009, and named as a "standout choreographer” for 2010 in the Chicago Tribune. The Tribune’s Sid Smith highlighted Eckman as the feature choreographer for its 2012 Fall Dance Preview. Autumn has taught at Northern Illinois University and is currently on faculty at several Chicagoland studios. http://www.niu.edu/theatre/faculty/eckman.shtml