Contemporary jazz dance is frequently influenced by other dance styles such as acro, ballet, contemporary, lyrical, and hip-hop. In turn, many other dance styles are influenced by jazz dance. As in most forms of dance, technique is the foundation for all modern jazz dance movement. In particular, jazz dancers benefit from a sound working knowledge of ballet technique and, consequently, jazz dance curriculum commonly includes ballet training. Dancers who have mastered jazz dance technique are free to focus on the stylistic and performance aspects of dance.

Agita Elksne leads Contemporary Jazz OPEN classes and beginner level courses in English - you're welcome!