Upcoming classes and events
Belly dancing classes in London for Intermediate and advance level
Secrets of the Drum Solo
Drum or tabla solos are a balance of sharp, complex and dynamic technique with showcasing personality and entertaining (and even involving) the audience. It is often the most memorable part of the show, and now performed as a dance in its own right.
This course will give you a complete guide to all the key aspects of this style so you'll feel ready to tackle any drum solo with your own style, and not feel like you've run out of ideas!
What will you learn?
In this course, you'll sharpen your technique, improve your musical ear and be inspired with fresh movements and combos so you can showcase your own signature drum solo style in your performance, whether that's to pre-recorded music or with a live drummer.
We will cover topics including (but not limited to):
-
Isolations, locks and ladders
-
Layering and shimmies
-
Layered travelling step options
-
Drum solo structure and how to start and finish
-
Exciting and modern elements to make your dance memorable and the different drum solo styles and approaches
-
Combinations to rhythms and common phrases that feature in drum solos
-
Showcasing your personality and engaging the audience
-
Drum solo improvisation tips and exercises, including common pitfalls
This course is suitable for intermediate and advanced level dancers, although no specific experience with drum solo is necessary. Includes optional homework exercises with feedback on WhatsApp.
Practical info
When: Tuesdays 8pm - 9.30pm starting 7 January 2024 for 6 weeks
Location: Danceworks London (or online on zoom)
Recordings are provided to all participants and are available for approx. one month after the course finishes.
Price: £100 (Earlybird until 10 December) then £110 (full price)
The previous courses sold out in the studio, so please book early to avoid disappointment.
On-demand classes
Beautiful Baladi
A 4 week belly dancing course with feedback for dancers looking to learn all about Egyptian baladi dance style including technique, baladi improvisation, archetypes and baladi tableux.
Baladi is a grounded, elegant but earthy dance style with a fascinating history, where the dancer is deeply connected to the rich music. It is an essential part of any bellydancer's set.
Join the waitlist for beginners belly dancing classes in London
About Jessica
Jessica is an award winning, London based belly dance teacher and performer with over 15 years experience, running belly dance classes in London for a range of levels currently including improvers, intermediate and advanced belly dance. Her style is best described as elegant oriental true to the Egyptian musicality and roots of the dance, with the latest up-to-date, modern and exciting technique. She is known for her clear explanations of technique and extensive knowledge and is an in-demand teacher as a result.
Jessica has studied with, and been mentored by, master belly dance teachers to develop her own unique style (including Julia Farid, Diana Gabriellan, Shahrzad, Alla Vats, Tito Sief, Randa Kamel, Kareem Gad and Wael Mansour), and travels regularly to festivals and to Cairo to enhance her knowledge and learning.
Jessica has won various International belly dance Competitions, including first place in Rising Star category at Leylet Hob festival (Switzerland, 2024), first place in semi-professional Oriental and Baladi & Shaabi categories at Safar Festival (Italy, 2024), and 2nd place in professional in the Bellydance Now International Competition.
Jessica performs in restaurants, parties and weddings for many years across the UK, improvisation is one of her special skills and she has come first in improvisation categories.
