Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Become A Pop Backup Dancer

While there is no substitute for natural talent, it will take a lot more than that to become a successful backup dancer for a pop band. The music industry is an ever evolving business and a back-up Pop dancer must be able to evolve with it.


Instructions


1. Find a reputable dance teacher and studio. There is no substitute for formal training from a professional teacher. Check all teaching references so you don’t waste money on amateurs.


2. Enroll in every available dance style. Every genre will teach you to manipulate your body in new ways. Even ballet will teach fluidity and give you leg strength.


3. Find and frequent dance clubs to pick up new moves and see who the competition in your town is. If you are an advanced pop dancer, show your moves and get critiques from peers.


4. Join a dance group with two to four other dancers at or above your level of dance. Pop back-up dancers are almost always part of a group. Moving in unison is very important. There are no stars in the pop dance group.


5. Perform shows for free and money. Do some street dancing to get feedback from people who will eventually pay for tickets to see you dance.


6. Find a pop band in need of a dancer or group of dancers. Go to as many auditions as it takes to get a gig. Check on Craigslist, coffee houses and large neighboring cities for auditions.


7. Hire an agent. If you are performing with a group that plans to stay together, one agent for the group will suffice. If you are joining a group or band by yourself, get your own agent so you can still perform solo gigs.