You might worry that performing arts will be too hard to learn. This guide will help you understand the best methods for learning performing arts and what you should study first to make the learning process easier. This way, you’ll be successful however you choose to apply your new skills.Â
What is Performing Arts?
Performing arts encompass a wide range of disciplines that involve live performance and artistic expression. It includes forms such as music, dance, theater, opera, spoken word, and more. Performing arts engage audiences through the creative interpretation and presentation of ideas, emotions, and narratives. Performing arts have a rich and storied history which varies depending on the art in question. For example, dance can be traced back to ancient civilizations, whereas something like digital immersive performance has a much shorter history. There are also many different types of dance such as salsa, ballet, bhangra, hip hop, and more, each with its own history and set of important figures.
Benefits of Learning Performing Arts?
Engaging in performing arts can be a source of stress relief and emotional well-being. The act of performing, whether through singing, dancing, or acting, allows individuals to channel their emotions, release tension, and experience a sense of catharsis. The joy and fulfillment derived from creative expression can boost mood, reduce anxiety, and promote overall emotional well-being. In fact, studies show that learning performing arts can help children through huge life changes.Â
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Performing arts also provide a platform for individuals to explore and express their creativity. Whether through dance, music, or theater, it allows individuals to tap into their imagination, emotions, and unique perspectives. This creative outlet encourages self-discovery, enabling individuals to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their artistic voice.Â
Is Performing Arts Easy to Learn?
The ease of learning performing arts varies depending on individual factors and the specific art form. While some aspects of performing arts may come naturally to certain individuals, mastering the craft requires consistent effort, dedication, and practice. Learning performing arts involves acquiring technical skills, developing artistic expression, and understanding the nuances of the chosen discipline. It may also involve physical and emotional challenges that require perseverance and resilience.Â
Learning performing arts becomes easier with guidance provided by in-person classes. For example, Dance Center Chicago offers an Intro to Salsa class aimed at beginners. Sure, you can learn performing arts from online tutorials, but having that live guidance can help. Similarly, it’s possible to read books on theory and learn improv by yourself, but the process becomes much easier with a team of cohorts to practice with and a seasoned instructor to guide you. If you’re in Boston, one such class is Improv Level 1, with Improv Asylum. Finally, while it’s possible to self-teach yourself the piano, it’s much easier with a class like the National Conservatory of Arts’ Late Beginner Group Piano for Adults class, open to students in DC.Â
What You Need to Know Before Learning Performing Arts
Depending on the specific performing art form, there may be certain prerequisite skills or knowledge that can enhance the learning process. For example, aspiring musicians may benefit from having basic knowledge of music theory or some familiarity with playing an instrument. Similarly, dancers may find it helpful to have a basic understanding of movement principles or body awareness. While not mandatory, these foundational skills can provide a solid starting point for beginners.Â
What You Need to Learn Performing Arts
When learning performing arts, there are several important things that students will need. These may vary depending on the specific art form, but common requirements include dedication, time, patients, and a willingness to learn. Physical objects such as musical instruments, dance shoes, or art supplies may be needed for certain disciplines. In-person classes often provide necessary supplies such as props and costumes, making them advantageous in terms of access to required materials. Additionally, certain aspects of performing arts, like using specialized equipment or facilities (such as practicing acting on a stage) may be best learned in-person. Regardless of whether you’re interested in self-study, in-person, or online classes, you’ll need commitment and dedication, access to learning resources, an open and creative mindset, guidance and instruction, and performance opportunities.Â
Commitment and DedicationÂ
Commitment and dedication are essential aspects of learning performing arts. They involve a steadfast willingness to invest time, effort, and energy into developing one’s skills. Commitment indicates a strong dedication to the pursuit of excellence in performing arts. It means making a conscious decision to prioritize learning and practice, even when faced with challenges or competing demands. It requires setting clear goals and maintaining a long-term focus on personal growth and improvement.Â
Dedication goes hand-in-hand with commitment and involves the consistent and disciplined effort put into learning and practicing performing arts. It requires a regular schedule of practice sessions, attending classes, and engaging in continuous learning. Dedication entails developing a routine and sticking to it, even when motivation may waver. It’s important to note that while it’s possible to learn performing arts casually, true mastery is impossible without dedication and commitment.Â
Open and Creative Mindset
Having an open mindset encourages individuals to break away from conventional norms and boundaries, enabling them to push the limits of their artistic abilities. It fosters a willingness to experiment, take risks, and explore different artistic styles, approaches, and interpretations. This sense of openness encourages continuous growth and development as a performer.Â
By cultivating an open mindset, individuals can tap into their creativity and imagination, finding unique ways to interpret and express emotions, narratives, or concepts through their chosen art form. It encourages the exploration of different artistic mediums, combining elements from various disciplines, and discovering new forms of self-expression.Â
Guidance and Instruction
Guidance and instruction play a vital role in the process of learning performing arts. They provide valuable support, mentorship, and expertise that help individuals develop their skills, refine their techniques, and navigate the complexities of their chosen art form. Guidance from experienced instructors of mentors brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the learning journey. Whether it’s your favorite Youtuber or a live in-person instructor, these professionals possess a deep understanding of the art form and can provide insights, tips, and strategies for improvement.Â
Finding the perfect instructor isn’t always easy, but taking a class can help. The instructors for live in-person classes are usually vetted by the institution they teach for, so you can know for certain that you’re getting access to the best teaching artists. If you’re located in New York and interested in one-on-one vocal instruction, for example, you can find a range of instructors at City Music Schools. Their Voice Lessons (Private) class is perfect for students who want more individualized attention. Students who want to learn dance from seasoned instructors and also live in New York may find their dream teacher in the Lindy Hop Zero to Hero Beginner course. Meanwhile, LA-based students interested in learning an instrument will be paired with knowledgeable instructors in Ukulele–The Easy Way.Â
Performance Opportunities
Performance opportunities are an integral part of learning performing arts, providing students with invaluable experiences and avenues to apply their skills in a real-world setting. These opportunities allow individuals to showcase their talent, gain confidence, and grow as performers. By participating in performances, students can put into practice what they have learned in their classes or training. It provides a platform for them to demonstrate their skills, techniques, and artistic expression to an audience.Â
While it’s possible to learn performing arts without ever really performing, performance opportunities offer a chance for students to receive feedback from a live audience. The reaction and response from viewers provide valuable insights into their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback loop helps performers refine their craft, make adjustments, and continually enhance their skills.
Key Takeaways
- Performing arts encompass a wide range of disciplines that involve live performance and artistic expression.
- Learning performing arts can increase well-being, decrease stress, and allow individuals to connect with themselves and others.Â
- Exactly what you need to learn a performing art will change depending on the discipline you choose. However, commitment and dedication, performance opportunities, guidance and instruction, and an open and creative mindset all help enormously.Â
- You can contact CourseHorse to find options for online or in-person training, including private group sessions.