When & Where

Quick Facts

  • Availability Yes
  • Tutor Marta Valverde
  • Course Code W23DNEH01C
  • Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

This workshop will cover the foundations and basic vocabulary of funk styles, most specifically, Locking. Emerging in the late 70s in the West Coast of the United States, this style is one of the ‘old-school’ styles in street dance and a big influencer to hip hop dance culture and later, ‘new school’ styles. An energetic, fun and expressive style that has as much relevance as a freestyle form than as a choreographic style. Achievement on your course will be measured by whether you meet the following learning outcomes. At the start of the course you will have an opportunity to discuss these with your tutor and set your own personal targets, linked to the learning outcomes and future goals i.e. progression to an advanced-level course.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • A vocabulary of funk basics such as: Up and Lock, Wrist Roll, Leon Walk, Pace
  • An understanding of the history and social background of funk styles and locking
  • An improved sense of musicality
  • Perform a short phrase individually and in pairs

Cost

  • Full fee
    £15
  • Concession fee
    £10
  • Class format and activities

    The session will include an introduction to the history and social background of funk styles and locking, a progressive warm-up, and a series of drills and short combos to learn and practice this style’s vocabulary. You will also learn a short choreographed phrase. You will work individually and in pairs and give and receive constructive feedback from your tutor. There will be observation, practice and exchange. There will be space for individual variation/choice of the level of challenges to enable for different levels of experience to tailor and deepen each individual’s practice and make the most out of the session. In addition to your dance practice, study can include the use of digital resources such as film & photography, useful websites and connection with online communities of interest via social media to enhance your learning. Dance study offers a range of benefits including being an enjoyable way to increase fitness whilst enhancing wellbeing. Dance practice at Morley can also serve to enhance skills relevant for employment by means of encouraging increased confidence, physical dexterity and concentration.

    Entry requirements

    The class is open to all from beginners to those with some experience in this dance style, the tutor will adapt and give different challenges depending on the level of experience. A good level of fitness is recommended as this is an energetic class. A good level of fitness, however adjustments will be made if needed. Excellent attendance and punctuality will be required from all students. This course will include some completion of activities outside of class time, e.g. preparation of favourite exercises to share with fellow students. Photography and film recording of class activities may be used in order to aid learning. These images may also be used for publicity or marketing materials produced by Morley College, both online and in print. You will have the opportunity to either confirm or decline consent to being filmed or photographed. Please consult your doctor if you are pregnant, have any serious health conditions or a history of injury. Please inform your tutor if there is any physical activity you have be advised to avoid.

    What you need

    Comfortable clothing for movement, trainers, water. Something to take notes (digital or physical) ie. Pen and paper, a phone or ipad.

    What you can do next

    Morley College will be hosting a series of workshops and masterclasses on hip hop and street dance styles. The next one is on June, 25th, on House Basics. Additionally, Morley College Dance offers a rich range of courses in various disciplines. Check out our website or get in touch via admin@morleycollege.ac.uk if you have questions and to find out more.