Choreographer: Career Advice for Recent Graduates

Introduction to Choreography

Choreography is the art of creating and designing dance sequences. Choreographers work with dancers to create dance routines, movements, and patterns that can be performed on stage or in films, television shows, or music videos.

Choreographers are responsible for creating the visual representation of the music, interpreting lyrics, and translating the theme or concept of the performance to the dancers. They need to have a deep understanding of different dance styles, music, and movement techniques to create seamless and exceptional performances.

Career Values, Traits, Skills

If you are considering a career as a choreographer, it’s essential to have the following values, traits, and skills:

Values

• Passion for dance and music
• Creativity
• Discipline
• Perseverance
• Openness to learn

Traits

• Strong artistic vision
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Flexibility to adapt to different styles

Skills

• A deep understanding of various dance styles, music, and movement techniques
• The ability to read music and understand musical phrasing
• A good understanding of choreography software
• The ability to collaborate with other industry professionals

Career Path

To become a choreographer, you typically need a strong foundation in dance, music, and choreography. You can study dance at a university, conservatory, or private dance school. After completing your degree or program, you can start gaining practical experience by working in dance companies or productions.

It’s crucial to build a robust network of professionals in the dance and entertainment industry, attend choreography workshops and seminars to expand your knowledge and stay updated with the latest trends and techniques.

You can also build your portfolio by creating dance videos and uploading them to social media channels such as YouTube, Instagram, or Vimeo.

Salary Range

The salary range for choreographers varies depending on the type of work, experience, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for choreographers was $26.73 per hour, or $55,580 per year in 2020.

Tips for Success

• Continuously develop your skills and knowledge by attending workshops, watching performances, and collaborating with other professionals.
• Build a solid reputation and network by being reliable, professional, and hardworking.
• Market yourself via social media, websites, and resume to increase visibility.
• Be patient and open to feedback and constructive criticism.

References

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a choreographer or the dance and entertainment industry, here are a few resources you can explore:

• Dance/USA – a national organization that supports and advocates for professional dance
• The International Association of Dance Medicine and Science – an organization that promotes the health and well-being of dancers
• The Juilliard School – a prestigious dance and music school that offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance
• Choreographic Essentials – a book by Mohan Khokar, a renowned dance historian, and critic, which outlines the principles of choreography.

In conclusion, becoming a choreographer is an exhilarating and rewarding career path for those passionate about dance, music, and creativity. By developing your skills, building networks, and marketing yourself, you can establish yourself as a successful choreographer in this competitive industry.