Hand flourishes in MJ...what's the consensus?

[spindr]

In the clip, the spare arm is crossed across the chest mostly as a continuation of the previous movement (for example, a clockwise spin).

I wouldn't recommend that as a technique -- it looks like an unconscious movement, rather than a definite styling decision. It's almost like a "self-prep" for a follower -- over turning (the arm) in preparation for an anticipated rotation in the opposite direction -- which wouldn't necessarily be what every leader might do

From a leader's perspective it'd be horrible trying to catch the spare hand quickly.

SpinDr

P.S. Awesome spins tho'

[Terpsichorea]

I wouldn't recommend that as a technique -- it looks like an unconscious movement, rather than a definite styling decision. It's almost like a "self-prep" for a follower -- over turning (the arm) in preparation for an anticipated rotation in the opposite direction -- which wouldn't necessarily be what every leader might do

From a leader's perspective it'd be horrible trying to catch the spare hand quickly.

SpinDr

P.S. Awesome spins tho'

Aye, I am well envious of Jamie's spins and they look even more impressive up close! (I go to the class he occasionally teaches at St Chads). I finally managed to pull off a double (so as to speak ) last night but it was, err, far from the finished article.

I think style is (inevitably) a very individual aspect of how you dance. I guess you can modify it through education and practice, but ultimately it will always be an extension of what you are and what you value about dancing. I have been told that my own dancing has a very latin feel - probably this is because I love latin music and enjoy dancing to it!

[fletch]

importantly, don't worry about how it looks.

I've left the floor after a fantastic dance to be told it looked awful. I don't care, I loved it.

I was told once, don't worry about your partner, just make sure you look good not my style

I was also asked why do you keep doing that awfull move with 'him' cos we both like it

- my styling is fabulous darling!

good for you honey

I used to get my freinds to watch me tell me what looks good and what doesn't, but the best improvement for my styling was watching myself back on film

Just been listening to the rumours

now Gav you know that's a dangerous pass time

[Gadget]

Personally I think that the laying of the arm across the chest as a continuation of movement looks effeminate... but that's the same with most "gracefull" actions - ladies look a lot better when doing them and men tend to look slightly camp. :shrug:

I think that as long as the lead's back arm isn't hanging like a peice of dead meat you're doing well. (Follower's don't tend to do this because the lead may take the hand at any time - it's normally about waist level in a relaxed position.)


(PS For some ideas on men's styling, look at the "Style" link on my syg. )

[Jamie]

Personally I think that the laying of the arm across the chest as a continuation of movement looks effeminate... but that's the same with most "gracefull" actions - ladies look a lot better when doing them and men tend to look slightly camp. :shrug:

Another reason I changed it.

[Trouble]

Another reason I changed it.

you changed it.......adding a sock doesn't really help make it less camp Jamie...!!!!