Labanotation: A Complete Learning Curriculum
Subject: Labanotation: A Complete Learning Curriculum
47 chapters
1. 1 The Vertical Staff
[Verse 1]
Picture a staff that reaches up high
Reading from bottom like time passing by
Down at the base is where we begin
Each moment above shows what happens within
Center line splits us left side from right
Body parts mapped in columns so bright
This is the language dancers all know
Labanotation helps movement to flow
[Chorus]
Vertical staff, bottom to top
Time moving forward, it never will stop
Center line splits us, left side and right
Support in the middle, holding us tight
Legs gesture outward, body's the core
Arms reaching further, there's always much more
[Verse 2]
Support columns innermost, closest to center
That's where your weight-bearing actions will enter
What do your feet do to carry you through
Standing and stepping, it's all written true
Just outside those are leg gesture spaces
Kicks and extensions in all the right places
Body columns next for your torso's design
Movement and posture all fall into line
[Chorus]
Vertical staff, bottom to top
Time moving forward, it never will stop
Center line splits us, left side and right
Support in the middle, holding us tight
Legs gesture outward, body's the core
Arms reaching further, there's always much more
[Bridge]
Arms in their columns sitting outside
Head, hands, and fingers can join for the ride
Additional columns when details are key
Face and expression for all eyes to see
From center line outward the body unfolds
Each column a story that movement foretold
[Final Chorus]
Vertical staff, bottom to top
Time moving forward, it never will stop
Center line splits us, left side and right
Support in the middle, holding us tight
Legs gesture outward, body's the core
Arms reaching further, now you know more
[Outro]
Bottom to top, that's how time flows
In Labanotation, that's how it goes
2. 2 Reading the Staff
[Verse 1]
When you open up a Labanotation page
Don't start reading from the top
Time flows upward like a river stage
From the bottom, that's your stop
Double horizontal line you see
That's where every dance begins
Starting position, that's the key
Now the movement story spins
[Chorus]
Bottom to top, time flows up
Double line start, fill your cup
Bar lines cut like music beats
Symbol length shows time that repeats
Reading staff, it's not so tough
Bottom to top, time flows up
[Verse 2]
Bar lines running left to right
Divide the staff in measures clean
Just like music, they invite
Order to the movement scene
Each section holds a piece of dance
Organized and crystal clear
Bar by bar, the moves advance
Up the staff from there to here
[Chorus]
Bottom to top, time flows up
Double line start, fill your cup
Bar lines cut like music beats
Symbol length shows time that repeats
Reading staff, it's not so tough
Bottom to top, time flows up
[Bridge]
Long symbols mean more time to spend
Short symbols, quick and fast
Duration shows from start to end
How long each movement lasts
Visual time upon the page
Written clear for all to see
Every dancer, every age
Can read this choreography
[Chorus]
Bottom to top, time flows up
Double line start, fill your cup
Bar lines cut like music beats
Symbol length shows time that repeats
Reading staff, it's not so tough
Bottom to top, time flows up
[Outro]
Start at bottom, read up high
Watch the symbols tell you why
Time flows upward to the sky
Labanotation, now you fly
3. 3 Starting Position
[Verse 1]
Before we write a single note
Before the body starts to move
We need to set our starting place
The foundation we will use
Stand up tall with feet together
Arms hanging by your side
Face the front of stage or room
Let this be your starting guide
[Chorus]
Starting position, that's where we begin
Feet together, arms at your side
Starting position, let the dance begin
Face the front with nothing to hide
Every movement needs a place to start
Starting position is the dancer's art
[Verse 2]
Draw your staff with empty columns
Label each one in your mind
Left support and right support
Gestures left and right you'll find
Body column in the center
Head direction at the top
Mark your starting place with care
This is where the movement stops
[Chorus]
Starting position, that's where we begin
Feet together, arms at your side
Starting position, let the dance begin
Face the front with nothing to hide
Every movement needs a place to start
Starting position is the dancer's art
[Bridge]
From memory name each column
Practice reading simple starts
Stand upright, assume the pose
Feel it with your body parts
Without this foundation steady
Movement notation falls apart
[Final Chorus]
Starting position, that's where we begin
Feet together, arms at your side
Starting position, let the dance begin
Face the front with nothing to hide
Every movement needs a place to start
Starting position is the dancer's art
Starting position is where we start
[Outro]
Before you move, you have to know
Exactly where you're standing now
4. 1 The Direction Symbol System
[Verse 1]
In Labanotation we start to learn
Eight directions help your body turn
Shapes will tell you where to go
Levels too, we'll take it slow
Forward moves with rectangles straight
Backward points the other way
Right triangles point to the right
Left triangles point left so bright
[Chorus]
Eight directions, shapes so clear
Forward, backward, far and near
Right and left triangles too
Diagonals will guide you through
Rectangle forward, pointing down for back
Triangles left and right stay on track
Eight directions, learn them well
Labanotation stories they will tell
[Verse 2]
Diagonal moves need special care
Four directions dancing in the air
Right-forward leans the proper way
Left-forward for your ballet
Right-backward diagonal too
Left-backward completes the view
Eight directions, shapes define
Movement flowing, so divine
[Chorus]
Eight directions, shapes so clear
Forward, backward, far and near
Right and left triangles too
Diagonals will guide you through
Rectangle forward, pointing down for back
Triangles left and right stay on track
Eight directions, learn them well
Labanotation stories they will tell
[Bridge]
Shape tells direction, that's the key
Shading shows the level, can't you see
Geometric symbols guide your way
Practice these directions every day
[Chorus]
Eight directions, shapes so clear
Forward, backward, far and near
Right and left triangles too
Diagonals will guide you through
Rectangle forward, pointing down for back
Triangles left and right stay on track
Eight directions, learn them well
Labanotation stories they will tell
[Outro]
Eight directions now you know
Let your movement knowledge grow
5. 2 The Three Levels
[Verse 1]
Every symbol tells a story, every mark shows where to go
But there's something more important that beginners need to know
It's not just about direction, north or south or east or west
It's the level that you're moving that will help you dance your best
[Chorus]
High is striped and dotted light, reaching up toward the sky
Middle level hatched and shaded, arms and body standing by
Low is filled and dark and solid, bending down toward the ground
Three levels times eight directions, twenty-seven moves are found
Don't forget the place positions, staying right where you belong
High and middle, low and staying, sing the levels song
[Verse 2]
When you see a stripe or dotted mark upon your movement sign
That's high level calling you to rise and really shine
Think of relevé on your toes or arms that reach up high
Diagonal stripes and little dots will lift you to the sky
[Chorus]
High is striped and dotted light, reaching up toward the sky
Middle level hatched and shaded, arms and body standing by
Low is filled and dark and solid, bending down toward the ground
Three levels times eight directions, twenty-seven moves are found
Don't forget the place positions, staying right where you belong
High and middle, low and staying, sing the levels song
[Verse 3]
Hatched and shaded means the middle, where you normally would stand
Arms at shoulder height and steady, this is middle level land
When the symbol's filled completely, solid dark from top to ground
That's low level, think of plié, bending down without a sound
[Bridge]
Place means staying where you are, no direction but with height
High place, middle place, low place, each one shaded just right
Eight directions times three levels, plus three place positions too
Twenty-seven combinations, now you know what symbols do
[Chorus]
High is striped and dotted light, reaching up toward the sky
Middle level hatched and shaded, arms and body standing by
Low is filled and dark and solid, bending down toward the ground
Three levels times eight directions, twenty-seven moves are found
Don't forget the place positions, staying right where you belong
High and middle, low and staying, sing the levels song
[Outro]
Stripe it high and shade the middle
Fill it low, now solve the riddle
Three levels make the movement true
Labanotation's gift to you
6. 3 Combining Direction and Level
[Verse 1]
Nine directions spinning round
High and middle, low we've found
Forward, back and side to side
Center holds us all inside
Three levels up and down the scale
Twenty-seven tales to tell
[Chorus]
Flash those cards and make it stick
Direction plus the level quick
Forward high and backward low
Side to side, now let it flow
Twenty-seven ways to move
Get that symbol in the groove
[Verse 2]
Place direction in your mind
Add the level, now combine
Forward middle, center high
Backward low, reach for the sky
Each position has its place
Movement written with such grace
[Chorus]
Flash those cards and make it stick
Direction plus the level quick
Forward high and backward low
Side to side, now let it flow
Twenty-seven ways to move
Get that symbol in the groove
[Bridge]
Simon says to show the sign
You respond and move in time
Partner holds the symbol there
You move into positions with care
Eight count phrase, now write it down
Arms are dancing all around
[Verse 3]
Practice daily, drill each one
Recognition's just begun
High left forward, middle right
Low back center, what a sight
Speed will come with every day
Twenty-seven on display
[Chorus]
Flash those cards and make it stick
Direction plus the level quick
Forward high and backward low
Side to side, now let it flow
Twenty-seven ways to move
Get that symbol in the groove
[Outro]
Direction, level, combined as one
Labanotation's just begun
Flash and move and write it true
Twenty-seven waits for you
7. 1 Relating to Music
[Verse 1]
When dancers move across the floor
There's music playing, that's for sure
Labanotation writes it down
With symbols that are music-bound
Each measure has a line so clear
Bar lines mark what we can hear
[Chorus]
Fill the whole measure, whole note long
Half the measure, half note song
Quarter symbols, quarter time
Music and movement, perfect rhyme
Bar lines guide us, measure by measure
Dance and rhythm, lasting treasure
[Verse 2]
A symbol stretched from end to end
That's a whole note, my dancing friend
But if it only takes half space
Half note timing sets the pace
The length you see upon the page
Matches music, stage by stage
[Chorus]
Fill the whole measure, whole note long
Half the measure, half note song
Quarter symbols, quarter time
Music and movement, perfect rhyme
Bar lines guide us, measure by measure
Dance and rhythm, lasting treasure
[Bridge]
Proportional is the way
Longer symbols, longer stay
Shorter marks mean quicker beats
Music makes the dance complete
Every symbol has its place
Time and movement, perfect grace
[Verse 3]
Count the music, one two three four
See the symbols on the floor
When the measure's divided right
Quarter notes come into sight
Bar to bar we read along
Movement written like a song
[Chorus]
Fill the whole measure, whole note long
Half the measure, half note song
Quarter symbols, quarter time
Music and movement, perfect rhyme
Bar lines guide us, measure by measure
Dance and rhythm, lasting treasure
[Outro]
Music time and dance align
In Labanotation's design
Every symbol tells us when
We'll dance to music once again
8. 2 Time Signatures
[Verse 1]
When you're reading movement on the page
Time signatures set the dancing stage
Just like music has its counting beat
Labanotation makes the rhythm complete
Four over four is what we see the most
Four beats per measure from coast to coast
The vertical space gets divided fair
Each beat gets equal room to share
[Chorus]
Count it out, four-four time
Every beat falls right in line
Measure by measure, beat by beat
Time signatures make it neat
Four over four, remember this
Equal spaces, nothing missed
[Verse 2]
Picture measures like a birthday cake
Four equal slices, that's all it takes
Each slice holds one beat of the dance
Every movement gets its equal chance
The staff divides from top to bottom
Four beats fitting, none forgotten
First beat here, second beat there
Third and fourth complete the square
[Chorus]
Count it out, four-four time
Every beat falls right in line
Measure by measure, beat by beat
Time signatures make it neat
Four over four, remember this
Equal spaces, nothing missed
[Bridge]
Time signature tells the story
How many beats of dancing glory
Four-four time means four beats strong
Divided equal all along
[Verse 3]
Other signatures can change the game
But four-four time stakes its claim
Most common rhythm that you'll find
Keep this pattern in your mind
When you see that four over four
You know exactly what's in store
Four beats waiting in each measure
Equal spacing is the treasure
[Chorus]
Count it out, four-four time
Every beat falls right in line
Measure by measure, beat by beat
Time signatures make it neat
Four over four, remember this
Equal spaces, nothing missed
[Outro]
Time signatures show the way
How many beats are here to stay
Four-four time, the dancing friend
Equal spaces to the end
9. 3 Tempo and Counts
[Verse 1]
When you open up a Labanotation score
There's a number at the top you should look for
Shows the tempo, tells you just how fast to go
Beats per minute, that's what dancers need to know
[Chorus]
Tempo at the top, counts along the side
Pickup notes before the downbeat starts to ride
Three, two, one, then measure one begins
That's how Labanotation timing always wins
Tempo, counts, and pickup beats
Make the rhythm feel complete
[Verse 2]
Count numbers running down beside the staff
Help you track each measure, first and second half
One, two, three, four, marking every beat
Reference points to keep your dancing neat
[Chorus]
Tempo at the top, counts along the side
Pickup notes before the downbeat starts to ride
Three, two, one, then measure one begins
That's how Labanotation timing always wins
Tempo, counts, and pickup beats
Make the rhythm feel complete
[Bridge]
Anacrusis comes before the strong downbeat
Pickup movements make the phrase feel so sweet
Not a full measure, just a partial start
Leading dancers right into the heart
[Verse 3]
Read the tempo marking, find your steady pace
Count numbers guide you to the perfect place
Pickup beats prepare you for what's ahead
Follow all three elements, you'll never lose the thread
[Chorus]
Tempo at the top, counts along the side
Pickup notes before the downbeat starts to ride
Three, two, one, then measure one begins
That's how Labanotation timing always wins
Tempo, counts, and pickup beats
Make the rhythm feel complete
[Outro]
Top for tempo, side for counts
Pickup beats before it mounts
Three together, timing's key
Labanotation harmony
10. 4 Simultaneous vs. Sequential Actions
[Verse 1]
When you see the symbols lined up side by side
Different columns at the same height they reside
That's the secret code for happening together
Arms and legs can move at once like dancing weather
Read across the page to see what's simultaneous
Body parts in harmony, movements instantaneous
[Chorus]
Side by side means same time
Up and down means one by one
Simultaneous when aligned
Sequential when they're stacked and done
Read across for together
Read down for one after the other
Labanotation shows the way
Every movement has its place and day
[Verse 2]
Walking pattern four-four time, one step per beat
Four symbols stacked up tall make the sequence complete
First the right foot hits the ground
Then the left foot makes its sound
Then right again and left once more
Sequential steps across the floor
[Chorus]
Side by side means same time
Up and down means one by one
Simultaneous when aligned
Sequential when they're stacked and done
Read across for together
Read down for one after the other
Labanotation shows the way
Every movement has its place and day
[Bridge]
Change it up to three-four time
Three steps dancing in a line
Stacked vertical they follow through
One then two then three on cue
But place them side by side instead
All at once just like we said
[Verse 3]
Arms can swing while legs step out
Place them side by side no doubt
Same height means they start together
Synchronized like birds of feather
But if the arms wait for legs to end
Stack them up from top to bottom friend
[Chorus]
Side by side means same time
Up and down means one by one
Simultaneous when aligned
Sequential when they're stacked and done
Read across for together
Read down for one after the other
Labanotation shows the way
Every movement has its place and day
[Outro]
Columns show you which body part
Vertical height shows when to start
Master this and you'll decode
Every movement on the road
11. 1 Support Symbols
[Verse 1]
Picture the staff with columns standing tall
The innermost ones are special of all
Support columns they are called by name
Where weight and balance play their game
When you place a symbol in this space
It means your body shifts its base
The foot that bears your weight below
Is marked right here so dancers know
[Chorus]
Support columns, innermost and true
Show the weight that's carried through
Direction symbol placed inside
Means step that way, let body glide
Forward, backward, side to side
Support columns be your guide
[Verse 2]
Right support column takes the right
Left support column for the left side flight
Forward symbol in the right you see
Step forward on your right foot, free
Low level makes it deeper still
A plié step shows greater skill
Left support with forward low
Deep step left is how you go
[Chorus]
Support columns, innermost and true
Show the weight that's carried through
Direction symbol placed inside
Means step that way, let body glide
Forward, backward, side to side
Support columns be your guide
[Bridge]
Weight bearing action, that's the key
Transfer your body weight and see
Each symbol tells you where to go
Which foot to use, high or low
[Chorus]
Support columns, innermost and true
Show the weight that's carried through
Direction symbol placed inside
Means step that way, let body glide
Forward, backward, side to side
Support columns be your guide
[Outro]
Innermost columns, remember well
The weight-bearing story they will tell
Direction plus support makes clear
Which step to take and where to steer
12. 2 Types of Weight Transfer
[Verse 1]
When you're learning how to move and dance
There's a secret in your stance
Weight can shift from foot to foot
Or stay put where you took your foot
Two main types you need to know
Let me teach you how they go
[Chorus]
Step means weight goes all the way
From one foot to the other today
Touch and tap just kiss the ground
No weight transfer can be found
Step means weight goes all the way
Touch and tap just lightly play
[Verse 2]
If you slide across the floor
Keep that contact, don't ignore
Foot stays down throughout the move
That's a step with sliding groove
When you spring up in the air
Both feet floating, nothing there
[Chorus]
Step means weight goes all the way
From one foot to the other today
Touch and tap just kiss the ground
No weight transfer can be found
Step means weight goes all the way
Touch and tap just lightly play
[Bridge]
In the notation you will see
Support columns show the key
Steps go there for weight that's real
Touch goes in gesture, that's the deal
Gaps in columns mean you fly
Both feet dancing in the sky
[Verse 3]
Full transfer or no transfer
These are choices you can make
Every movement tells a story
Every step is yours to take
Practice shifting, practice touching
Feel the difference in your feet
[Chorus]
Step means weight goes all the way
From one foot to the other today
Touch and tap just kiss the ground
No weight transfer can be found
Step means weight goes all the way
Touch and tap just lightly play
[Outro]
Two types of weight transfer
Now you know them both
Step and touch, slide and spring
Dancing with your oath
13. 3 The Five Fundamental Jump Types
[Verse 1]
In the world of dance notation, where movements take their place
Laban found five ways to jump through time and space
From the ground we start our journey, feet together side by side
Learning how our takeoffs land us, let the symbols be our guide
[Chorus]
Two to two, we jump and land
Two to one, split where we stand
One to two, we come together
One to same, light as a feather
One to other, leap and fly
Five jump types that reach the sky
[Verse 2]
Sauté starts with both feet planted, ends the very same way too
Two feet up and two feet landing, that's the jump we always knew
Sissonne takes us from together, splits apart to just one side
Two feet launch but one receives us, like a graceful ballet glide
[Chorus]
Two to two, we jump and land
Two to one, split where we stand
One to two, we come together
One to same, light as a feather
One to other, leap and fly
Five jump types that reach the sky
[Verse 3]
Assemblé brings feet together, starting single, ending pair
One foot pushes off the ground while two feet land with room to spare
Hop is simple, hop is clever, same foot takes you up and down
One foot leaves and one foot catches, bouncing lightly off the ground
[Bridge]
Jeté leaps from foot to foot
Like a leap across a brook
Support columns show the pattern
Gaps and symbols, take a look
[Verse 4]
When you see the notation symbols, read the columns left and right
Gaps will show you feet in air, marks will show you where they light
Five fundamental jump types, each one has its special call
Master these and you'll be dancing, Labanotation knows them all
[Chorus]
Two to two, we jump and land
Two to one, split where we stand
One to two, we come together
One to same, light as a feather
One to other, leap and fly
Five jump types that reach the sky
[Outro]
Sauté, sissonne, assemblé
Hop and jeté light the way
Five jump types in perfect notation
Dance becomes communication
14. 4 Floor Plans
[Verse 1]
When you want to map the dancer's journey through the room
There's a special way to show where they will move
From above we draw the stage like looking down
Floor plans help us track each step around
[Pre-Chorus]
Pin and pathway, arrows too
Shows the dancer's point of view
[Chorus]
Floor plans from above, bird's eye in the sky
Pin for the dancer, pathway shows the why
Dotted lines or solid, arrows point the way
Floor plans map the movement every single day
Pin and path and arrow, that's the formula
Floor plans make it clear in Labanotation, yeah
[Verse 2]
Place a pin symbol where the dancer stands today
Draw the lines to show the route they'll take away
Solid lines for walking, dotted for the light
Arrows show which way they're facing left or right
[Pre-Chorus]
Pin and pathway, arrows too
Shows the dancer's point of view
[Chorus]
Floor plans from above, bird's eye in the sky
Pin for the dancer, pathway shows the why
Dotted lines or solid, arrows point the way
Floor plans map the movement every single day
Pin and path and arrow, that's the formula
Floor plans make it clear in Labanotation, yeah
[Bridge]
Eight counts walking forward, feet alternate the beat
Simple jump with two feet landing on both feet
Leap from right to left foot, cross the studio floor
Draw a square pathway, practice even more
[Final Chorus]
Floor plans from above, bird's eye in the sky
Pin for the dancer, pathway shows the why
Dotted lines or solid, arrows point the way
Floor plans map the movement every single day
Pin and path and arrow, now you know the way
Floor plans make it clear in Labanotation today
[Outro]
From above we see it all
Pin and path and arrow call
Floor plans guide the dancer's way
In Labanotation every day
15. 1 Gesture vs. Support
[Verse 1]
When you wave your hand up in the air
That's a gesture floating everywhere
Arms are swinging free without a care
No weight bearing, dancing through the air
[Chorus]
Gesture doesn't hold you up
Support keeps you standing up
If it bears your body weight
Support column, that's its fate
Gesture floats and moves around
Support keeps you on the ground
[Verse 2]
Stand on both your feet upon the floor
Those are supports, that's what they're for
Lift one leg up, kick it to the side
Now it's gesture, floating like a ride
[Chorus]
Gesture doesn't hold you up
Support keeps you standing up
If it bears your body weight
Support column, that's its fate
Gesture floats and moves around
Support keeps you on the ground
[Bridge]
Arms are almost always gesture signs
Unless you're doing handstand lines
Legs can switch from one to two
Support or gesture, what they do
Weight bearing makes the call
Support stands, gesture falls free
[Verse 3]
In your Labanotation score
Two columns help you learn much more
Left side gesture, right side support
Each movement has its own report
[Chorus]
Gesture doesn't hold you up
Support keeps you standing up
If it bears your body weight
Support column, that's its fate
Gesture floats and moves around
Support keeps you on the ground
[Outro]
Weight or no weight, make the choice
Let your movement find its voice
Gesture free or support strong
Now you've got the notation song
16. 2 Arm Notations
[Verse 1]
When you're learning how to write down dance
Arms need their own special stance
Same symbols as the legs we use
But in columns made for arm moves
Direction and level tell the tale
In gesture columns without fail
[Chorus]
Arms low down, bras bas they say
Low level place, that's the way
Forward middle at shoulder height
Side middle keeps arms spread wide
High level place up overhead
These four positions, don't forget
[Verse 2]
Ballet terms will guide you through
Each position dancers do
Arms hanging down beside your frame
Low level place, that's the name
When you reach out straight ahead
Middle forward, arms are spread
[Chorus]
Arms low down, bras bas they say
Low level place, that's the way
Forward middle at shoulder height
Side middle keeps arms spread wide
High level place up overhead
These four positions, don't forget
[Bridge]
Same direction symbols as before
Same levels that we used for floor
But now they live in gesture space
Where arms can move with flowing grace
Column placement tells the story
Of each arm's path to dancing glory
[Verse 3]
To the side at shoulder line
Middle level side, so fine
Up above your head they soar
High level place, nothing more
Four positions, clear and true
Labanotation's gift to you
[Final Chorus]
Arms low down, bras bas they say
Low level place, that's the way
Forward middle at shoulder height
Side middle keeps arms spread wide
High level place up overhead
Now you know arm notation spread
[Outro]
In the columns meant for arms
Direction, level work their charms
Same symbols, different place
Arms in motion, full of grace
17. 3 Torso and Body Movements
[Verse 1]
In the body column we write it down
Three movements that your torso makes
When you tilt your spine straight but leaning
Like a tower in the wind that never breaks
Keep it rigid as you lean left or right
Forward, backward, diagonal too
Special symbols mark each direction
Now your notation's coming through
[Chorus]
Tilt and twist and curve around
Body movements written down
Labanotation shows the way
How your torso moves today
Tilt stays straight, twist turns around
Curves will bend, spine up and down
Three movements in the body column
Dance notation, here's the knowledge
[Verse 2]
Rotation means your torso's turning
Spinning round that vertical line
Left and right around your center
Twist your waist, the movement's fine
Keep your head above your hips now
Turn around that axis tall
Special symbols show rotation
Mark the twist for one and all
[Chorus]
Tilt and twist and curve around
Body movements written down
Labanotation shows the way
How your torso moves today
Tilt stays straight, twist turns around
Curves will bend, spine up and down
Three movements in the body column
Dance notation, here's the knowledge
[Bridge]
Curves and contractions bend your spine
Flexion forward, extension back
Lateral bending to the side
Every curve that notation tracks
Forward fold or backward arch
Side to side your spine can bend
Symbols capture every movement
Every curve from start to end
[Chorus]
Tilt and twist and curve around
Body movements written down
Labanotation shows the way
How your torso moves today
Tilt stays straight, twist turns around
Curves will bend, spine up and down
Three movements in the body column
Dance notation, here's the knowledge
[Outro]
Body column holds them all
Tilt and twist and curve so tall
Three movements, symbols clear
Labanotation's always here
18. 4 Head Movements
[Verse 1]
In Labanotation there's a special place
For every movement of your head and face
An extra column stands beside the rest
To show the tilts and turns that you express
[Chorus]
Tilt it, turn it, nod up and down
Head movements dancing all around
Focus here and gaze over there
Extra column shows you where
Tilt it, turn it, nod up and down
Head notation safe and sound
[Verse 2]
When your head tilts to the left or right
Mark it clearly in the extra sight
Rotations spinning left and right around
In the head column they can be found
[Chorus]
Tilt it, turn it, nod up and down
Head movements dancing all around
Focus here and gaze over there
Extra column shows you where
Tilt it, turn it, nod up and down
Head notation safe and sound
[Bridge]
Port de bras flowing low to high
Arms are moving, now watch the eye
Step to left while torso leans right
Head turns with arms in graceful flight
Sixteen counts combining all the parts
Body, legs, and arms with head that starts
[Verse 3]
Focus shows us where the eyes should look
Gaze direction written in the book
Pre-sign symbols help us understand
Every head move carefully planned
[Chorus]
Tilt it, turn it, nod up and down
Head movements dancing all around
Focus here and gaze over there
Extra column shows you where
Tilt it, turn it, nod up and down
Head notation safe and sound
[Outro]
Extra column, head's special place
Shows the story of your moving face
Labanotation captures every way
Your head moves through the dance today
19. 1 Turn Signs
[Verse 1]
When you're dancing through the notation
And you need to show rotation
Look beside the support column there
Special symbols in the air
Arcs that curve to left and right
Tell the dancer which way's right
[Chorus]
Turn signs, turn signs, showing which way to go
Clockwise curves right like the hands of a clock you know
Turn signs, turn signs, counterclockwise goes left
With degrees marked clear so no movement's bereft
Quarter turn, half turn, three-quarter spin
Full rotation brings you back where you begin
[Verse 2]
Place the symbol near the base
Where the foot finds its place
Small arc curving to the right
Clockwise turning feels just right
Arc that bends the other way
Counter-clockwise leads the day
[Chorus]
Turn signs, turn signs, showing which way to go
Clockwise curves right like the hands of a clock you know
Turn signs, turn signs, counterclockwise goes left
With degrees marked clear so no movement's bereft
Quarter turn, half turn, three-quarter spin
Full rotation brings you back where you begin
[Bridge]
Additional marks tell how far
Quarter, half, or three-quarter
One full turn completes the wheel
Making every movement real
In the support column's space
Every turn finds its place
[Chorus]
Turn signs, turn signs, showing which way to go
Clockwise curves right like the hands of a clock you know
Turn signs, turn signs, counterclockwise goes left
With degrees marked clear so no movement's bereft
Quarter turn, half turn, three-quarter spin
Full rotation brings you back where you begin
[Outro]
Now you know the turning way
In Labanotation's display
Arcs and marks will guide you true
Every spin and pivot too
20. 2 Pivot vs. Traveling Turns
[Verse 1]
When you're dancing on the floor
There's three ways that you can turn
Some stay put while some explore
Let me help you tell and learn
Pivot turns will keep you grounded
One foot planted, spin around it
Like a compass point that's found
Your center never leaves the ground
[Chorus]
Pivot stays, traveling goes
Barrel jumps while spinning shows
Fixed in place or moving free
That's the turning family
Pivot stays, traveling goes
Through the space your body flows
Jump and spin up in the air
Three turn types beyond compare
[Verse 2]
Traveling turns will take you places
Chainé turns across the stage
Moving forward, changing faces
Like you're writing on a page
Step and turn and step again
Drawing circles with your feet
Through the room and back and then
Moving turning can't be beat
[Chorus]
Pivot stays, traveling goes
Barrel jumps while spinning shows
Fixed in place or moving free
That's the turning family
Pivot stays, traveling goes
Through the space your body flows
Jump and spin up in the air
Three turn types beyond compare
[Bridge]
One foot down or maybe two
Pivot keeps you right in view
Travel takes you here and there
Barrel lifts you in the air
Labanotation writes it down
Every turn in every town
[Verse 3]
Barrel turns defy the ground
Jump and spin without a base
Airborne turning, sight and sound
Gravity can't hold your grace
Three different ways to make your mark
Each one special in its way
From the ground or through the dark
Dancing turns will always stay
[Chorus]
Pivot stays, traveling goes
Barrel jumps while spinning shows
Fixed in place or moving free
That's the turning family
Pivot stays, traveling goes
Through the space your body flows
Jump and spin up in the air
Three turn types beyond compare
[Outro]
Remember when you see the signs
Pivot, travel, barrel lines
Labanotation shows the way
How to turn and how to sway
21. 3 Spotting and Facing
[Verse 1]
When you're standing on the floor
Which direction do you face?
Labanotation shows us more
How to mark your body's place
Floor plan symbols tell the tale
Where your front is pointing to
North or south without fail
East or west, the choice is you
[Chorus]
Spot and face, know your place
Floor plan symbols show the way
Quarter turn or half around
Standing still or moving ground
Spot and face, find your space
Mark the direction that you're bound
In or out, left or right
Labanotation makes it bright
[Verse 2]
Quarter turn step to the right
Mark it down with gentle care
Half a turn while in plié
Shows your facing changes there
These are turns without traveling
Just rotating where you stand
Different from the paths you're weaving
When you move across the land
[Chorus]
Spot and face, know your place
Floor plan symbols show the way
Quarter turn or half around
Standing still or moving ground
Spot and face, find your space
Mark the direction that you're bound
In or out, left or right
Labanotation makes it bright
[Bridge]
Chaîné turns across the floor
Moving through the space with grace
Different symbols, so much more
Than a simple change of face
Arms can gesture while you turn
Reading phrases, step by step
Every movement helps you learn
How to notate what you've kept
[Chorus]
Spot and face, know your place
Floor plan symbols show the way
Quarter turn or half around
Standing still or moving ground
Spot and face, find your space
Mark the direction that you're bound
In or out, left or right
Labanotation makes it bright
[Outro]
Practice makes the symbols clear
Quarter turns and half turns too
Facing forward, facing rear
Labanotation guides you through
22. 1 Introduction to Effort
[Verse 1]
Beyond the steps and where you go
There's something more we need to know
Not just the what but how you move
The feeling that your body proves
Laban saw four factors clear
That make the quality appear
Weight and Time and Space and Flow
The dynamics start to show
[Chorus]
Light or Strong, that's how you Weight
Quick or Sustained, don't hesitate
Direct or Indirect in Space
Free or Bound, control your pace
Four motion factors, learn them well
The story that your movements tell
This is Effort, this is how
We capture feeling here and now
[Verse 2]
Weight is power, force you bring
From gentle touch to thundering
Light like feathers in the air
Or Strong like lifting with great care
Time is rhythm, speed you choose
Sustained like honey slowly moves
Or Quick like lightning strikes the ground
The tempo makes the movement sound
[Chorus]
Light or Strong, that's how you Weight
Quick or Sustained, don't hesitate
Direct or Indirect in Space
Free or Bound, control your pace
Four motion factors, learn them well
The story that your movements tell
This is Effort, this is how
We capture feeling here and now
[Bridge]
Space is focus, where you aim
Direct like arrow, straight and plain
Or Indirect like wandering stream
Multi-focused, in between
Flow is freedom, how you stop
Free like river, never drop
Or Bound with control, careful, neat
Making every move complete
[Chorus]
Light or Strong, that's how you Weight
Quick or Sustained, don't hesitate
Direct or Indirect in Space
Free or Bound, control your pace
Four motion factors, learn them well
The story that your movements tell
This is Effort, this is how
We capture feeling here and now
[Outro]
From delicate to powerful
From gradual to sudden pull
From wandering to targeted
From fluid to carefully led
Effort shows the human way
In every move we make today
23. 2 Effort Symbols
[Verse 1]
When you're writing movement down in Labanotation way
There's more than just direction that your symbols need to say
The quality of effort makes each gesture come alive
Two special little marks will help your notation thrive
[Chorus]
Small marks alongside, that's where they go
Effort symbols tell us how the movement flows
Small marks alongside, easy to see
Quality indicators for you and me
[Verse 2]
Each factor has a symbol, it's a tiny little sign
You place it right beside the move to make the meaning shine
Not inside the symbol but right next to what you write
These effort marks will make your notation clear and bright
[Chorus]
Small marks alongside, that's where they go
Effort symbols tell us how the movement flows
Small marks alongside, easy to see
Quality indicators for you and me
[Bridge]
Strong or light, the force you bring
Fast or slow, time's offering
Every movement has its way
Effort symbols show the day
[Verse 3]
Two symbols you'll be learning as we start this journey here
They modify the movement and make the meaning clear
Remember placement matters, keep them close but not inside
Let these effort symbols be your faithful notation guide
[Chorus]
Small marks alongside, that's where they go
Effort symbols tell us how the movement flows
Small marks alongside, easy to see
Quality indicators for you and me
[Outro]
Quality and movement dancing hand in hand
With effort symbols helping us understand
24. 3 Effort Combinations (States and Drives)
[Verse 1]
When two effort factors come together as one
We call them States, and the learning's begun
Weight plus Time makes the Rhythm State flow
Space plus Time gives us Time State to know
Weight plus Space creates Flow State so bright
Three combinations that feel just right
[Chorus]
States are two, Drives are three
Effort factors in harmony
Float and punch, glide and slash
Dab and wring, flick and press
Eight basic actions we can express
States are two, Drives are three
[Verse 2]
Now when three factors unite in a dance
We call them Drives, they're our Action advance
Weight, Time, and Space working hand in hand
Eight basic movements throughout the land
Light or strong, quick or slow
Direct, indirect, watch them flow
[Chorus]
States are two, Drives are three
Effort factors in harmony
Float and punch, glide and slash
Dab and wring, flick and press
Eight basic actions we can express
States are two, Drives are three
[Bridge]
Float is light, sustained, indirect
Punch is strong, quick, direct
Glide moves light, sustained, and straight
Slash is strong, quick, indirect fate
Dab goes light, quick, and true
Wring is strong, sustained, askew
Flick is light, quick, off the path
Press is strong, sustained, direct math
[Chorus]
States are two, Drives are three
Effort factors in harmony
Float and punch, glide and slash
Dab and wring, flick and press
Eight basic actions we can express
States are two, Drives are three
[Outro]
Remember the rule, it's easy to see
Two make States, three make Drives with glee
Eight actions dancing in perfect form
Laban's wisdom keeps movement warm
25. 4 Applying Dynamics to Notation
[Verse 1]
Movement has a quality, not just where and when
The way we press or glide or punch tells us how again
Dynamic markings modify the structure that we write
They answer "with what feeling does this motion come to light?"
[Chorus]
Eight basic efforts, qualities that flow
Strong or light, direct or flex, fast or slow
Time and space and weight and flow
Mark them down so dancers know
How the movement breathes and grows
[Verse 2]
Take your arm and reach forward, simple gesture clean
Now try it eight different ways, feel what each can mean
Press with strength and focus, float with gentle care
Glide with smooth persistence, flick with flair to spare
[Chorus]
Eight basic efforts, qualities that flow
Strong or light, direct or flex, fast or slow
Time and space and weight and flow
Mark them down so dancers know
How the movement breathes and grows
[Bridge]
Punch it quick and powerful
Dab with light control
Wring with flexible strength
Slash cuts through your soul
[Verse 3]
Watch the dancers moving, see the effort shine
Notice how the quality changes line by line
Notate what you're seeing, mark the dynamic way
Structure shows the movement, effort shows the play
[Chorus]
Eight basic efforts, qualities that flow
Strong or light, direct or flex, fast or slow
Time and space and weight and flow
Mark them down so dancers know
How the movement breathes and grows
[Outro]
From strong to light, from quick to slow
The quality makes the movement glow
26. 1 Relationship Bows
[Verse 1]
When two dancers share the stage tonight
There's a special way to write it right
Curved lines connecting staff to staff
Show relationships in their dance path
From gentle touch to lifting high
These bows tell us the how and why
[Chorus]
Relationship bows curve between the lines
Grasping, supporting, touching, carrying signs
Near and approaching, five ways they connect
Curved lines show dancers' effects
Hold tight, lift up, reach out, stay close
These are the moves that matter most
[Verse 2]
Grasping means they hold on tight
Hands together through the night
Supporting shows one bears the weight
When partner leans, they compensate
The curved line tells us who does what
In every lift and spinning spot
[Chorus]
Relationship bows curve between the lines
Grasping, supporting, touching, carrying signs
Near and approaching, five ways they connect
Curved lines show dancers' effects
Hold tight, lift up, reach out, stay close
These are the moves that matter most
[Bridge]
Touching is brief, just a moment's grace
Carrying lifts them through the space
Near and approaching, no contact made
Just closeness in the dance parade
Five relationships, curved and clear
Making partnerships appear
[Chorus]
Relationship bows curve between the lines
Grasping, supporting, touching, carrying signs
Near and approaching, five ways they connect
Curved lines show dancers' effects
Hold tight, lift up, reach out, stay close
These are the moves that matter most
[Outro]
When you see that curved connection
It's more than simple direction
Two dancers moving as they should
Relationship bows make it understood
27. 2 Multiple Dancer Scores
[Verse 1]
When one dancer moves alone, one staff will do just fine
But when the group takes to the floor, we need a different design
Side by side the staves appear, each dancer gets their own
Like sheet music for a band, each part clearly shown
[Chorus]
Multiple dancers, multiple staves
Side by side they're neatly placed
Repeat signs when they move the same
Canon shows the timing game
Floor plans map where bodies go
Group notation helps us know
[Verse 2]
When all dancers do the same, why write it out for each?
Use repeat signs to save some time, efficiency we reach
A bracket shows which dancers share the movement that's in store
Write it once and mark who does it, so much cleaner than before
[Chorus]
Multiple dancers, multiple staves
Side by side they're neatly placed
Repeat signs when they move the same
Canon shows the timing game
Floor plans map where bodies go
Group notation helps us know
[Verse 3]
Canon means they do the same but started at different beats
Like "Row Your Boat" in music class, the pattern still repeats
Mark the timing offsets clear, who starts and when they do
The phrase flows like a wave across, each dancer coming through
[Chorus]
Multiple dancers, multiple staves
Side by side they're neatly placed
Repeat signs when they move the same
Canon shows the timing game
Floor plans map where bodies go
Group notation helps us know
[Bridge]
Floor plans show the bigger picture
Formations drawn from up above
Spatial patterns, where they're moving
Group choreography we love
[Outro]
From solo dance to group design
Multiple scores keep everything in line
Side by side and planned with care
Group notation gets us there
28. 3 Props and Set Pieces
[Verse 1]
When dancers move through space and time
They interact with props they find
A chair, a table, or a wall
Labanotation captures all
We draw the floor plan from above
Show where each object that we love
Will sit and wait for dancers' touch
These symbols mean so very much
[Chorus]
Props and sets, mark them clear
Draw the floor plan, place them here
Reference them upon the staff
When dancers meet them on their path
Props and sets, in the space
Every object has its place
Notation shows us where they go
So every dancer's sure to know
[Verse 2]
The floor plan is our map of space
Shows every prop in its right place
A rectangle for table tops
A circle where the action stops
These symbols help us understand
The layout of our dancing land
From bird's eye view we see it all
Each prop both big and small
[Chorus]
Props and sets, mark them clear
Draw the floor plan, place them here
Reference them upon the staff
When dancers meet them on their path
Props and sets, in the space
Every object has its place
Notation shows us where they go
So every dancer's sure to know
[Bridge]
When partners dance with one who leads
The follower responds to needs
Three dancers in a canon line
Each entrance marked in perfect time
From circles into two straight rows
Formation changes as it flows
The floor plan shows us how to move
Each pattern that we need to prove
[Verse 3]
Upon the staff we write it down
When dancers move all around
A lean against, a jump across
Without these marks the meaning's lost
The floor plan and the staff combine
To show us space and show us time
Each prop becomes a dancing friend
From beginning to the end
[Chorus]
Props and sets, mark them clear
Draw the floor plan, place them here
Reference them upon the staff
When dancers meet them on their path
Props and sets, in the space
Every object has its place
Notation shows us where they go
So every dancer's sure to know
[Outro]
Objects in the dancing space
Give each prop its special place
Floor plans and the staff notation
Create our dance communication
29. 1 Specific Body Parts
[Verse 1]
Before each movement symbol there's a tiny sign
A pre-sign that tells us which body part's in line
Your finger, wrist, or elbow moving through the space
Hip, knee, or ankle finding their perfect place
[Chorus]
Pre-signs show the way, they're small but mighty strong
Telling every body part exactly where they belong
From the top of your head to your toes down below
Pre-signs make it clear which parts are set to go
[Verse 2]
Your spine has many sections that can bend and sway
Upper, middle, lower moving in their own way
Your face can join the dancing with your eyebrows high
Your jaw can drop in wonder as the music flies by
[Chorus]
Pre-signs show the way, they're small but mighty strong
Telling every body part exactly where they belong
From the top of your head to your toes down below
Pre-signs make it clear which parts are set to go
[Bridge]
Individual fingers can wiggle and point
Shoulder blade can lift up from each connecting joint
Every single body part has its special mark
Pre-signs light the pathway when the dance gets dark
[Verse 3]
Wrist can circle gently while your elbow stays still
Ankle flexes forward bending to your will
Each pre-sign's a whisper to the part it calls
Specific and precise as the dancer enthralls
[Chorus]
Pre-signs show the way, they're small but mighty strong
Telling every body part exactly where they belong
From the top of your head to your toes down below
Pre-signs make it clear which parts are set to go
[Outro]
Small symbols, big meaning, that's the pre-sign way
Guiding every body part through the dance display
30. 2 Floorwork
[Verse 1]
When dancers move beyond their feet
And bodies touch the ground below
We need a way to notate neat
All sitting, crawling, movements slow
Your weight might rest upon your knees
Or shoulders flat against the floor
Each contact point the eye must see
To read the movement more and more
[Chorus]
Support symbols show where weight will go
Knees and hips and back you know
Level lines reveal how high
Body floats or touches by
Down and up with arrows clear
Floor work notation engineered
[Verse 2]
A sitting pose needs special marks
To show which body parts support
Are you on hips where weight embarks
Or crossed legs in a different sort
The level shows your height in space
How close or far from floor you are
These symbols help us notate grace
In movements near and movements far
[Chorus]
Support symbols show where weight will go
Knees and hips and back you know
Level lines reveal how high
Body floats or touches by
Down and up with arrows clear
Floor work notation engineered
[Bridge]
Rolling left or crawling right
Lying down or kneeling tall
Every move must be written bright
Support and level tells it all
Transition arrows guide the way
From standing down to floor today
[Verse 3]
When bodies roll from side to side
The notation follows every turn
Support symbols are your guide
These floor patterns you must learn
Getting up and getting down
Arrows point which way to go
Floor work symbols all around
Make the movement clearly flow
[Chorus]
Support symbols show where weight will go
Knees and hips and back you know
Level lines reveal how high
Body floats or touches by
Down and up with arrows clear
Floor work notation engineered
[Outro]
From crawling low to sitting high
Floor work symbols clarify
31. 3 Contact with the Floor
[Verse 1]
When you move your body down to touch the ground
There are three main ways that weight can be found
On your knees you're kneeling, feel that pressure there
On your seat you're sitting in your chair
Lying down your body spreads the weight around
These are all the floor contacts you've found
[Chorus]
Knees for kneeling, pelvis sitting
Body lying, weight distributing
Three contacts with the floor below
Write them down so movements flow
Knees for kneeling, pelvis sitting
Body lying, that's the system
[Verse 2]
Mark your kneeling with a simple sign
One knee or both, the symbol works just fine
Weight is resting on those bended knees
Capture this position with such ease
From standing down to kneeling you can go
Notation helps the sequence clearly show
[Chorus]
Knees for kneeling, pelvis sitting
Body lying, weight distributing
Three contacts with the floor below
Write them down so movements flow
Knees for kneeling, pelvis sitting
Body lying, that's the system
[Bridge]
Sitting means your pelvis takes the weight
Cross-legged or in chairs, mark every state
Lying spreads the load along your frame
Back or side or front, record the same
Combinations happen, transitions too
Mixed supports are possible to do
[Verse 3]
From sitting up to standing you can rise
Or kneel to sit, so many ways to try
Lying down to sitting, rolling free
Transitions make the dance flow naturally
Every floor contact has its place
In the notation system we embrace
[Chorus]
Knees for kneeling, pelvis sitting
Body lying, weight distributing
Three contacts with the floor below
Write them down so movements flow
Knees for kneeling, pelvis sitting
Body lying, that's the system
[Outro]
Three contacts, floor below
Write them right and let it flow
32. 4 Breath and Vocalization
[Verse 1]
When dancers move they need to breathe
Inhale and exhale naturally
Labanotation shows us how
To mark each breath from then till now
A curved line up means taking in
A curved line down, let breath begin
To flow back out into the air
These symbols show us when and where
[Chorus]
Breathe in, breathe out, mark it down
Voice and sound, all around
Curved lines up and curved lines low
Tell the dancer how to flow
Speak and sing, make it clear
Every sound the audience should hear
Breath and voice in notation
Complete communication
[Verse 2]
Sometimes we speak while we dance
Words that give the soul a chance
A box with letters shows the way
Exactly what the dancer should say
And when we sing a melody sweet
The music note makes it complete
Combined with movement, what a sight
Voice and body unite
[Chorus]
Breathe in, breathe out, mark it down
Voice and sound, all around
Curved lines up and curved lines low
Tell the dancer how to flow
Speak and sing, make it clear
Every sound the audience should hear
Breath and voice in notation
Complete communication
[Bridge]
Acoustic signals fill the space
Claps and stamps help keep the pace
Special symbols show each sound
That echoes all around
From whisper soft to shout so loud
Performance clear for any crowd
[Verse 3]
Standing tall then kneeling down
Sitting cross-legged on the ground
Lying flat then rolling free
Back to standing, can't you see
Each position needs its breath
Marked precisely, nothing left
To chance or guessing what to do
The notation guides you through
[Chorus]
Breathe in, breathe out, mark it down
Voice and sound, all around
Curved lines up and curved lines low
Tell the dancer how to flow
Speak and sing, make it clear
Every sound the audience should hear
Breath and voice in notation
Complete communication
[Outro]
Every breath and every word
Through notation can be heard
Labanotation shows the way
For breath and voice in dance today
33. 1 Score Layout
[Verse 1]
When you open up a Labanotation book
There's a structure that you need to know
Six essential parts that work together
Making dance notation clear to show
First the title page sets the foundation
Work and artist, notator's name
Date recorded keeps it all in order
Every detail matters in this game
[Chorus]
Title page and cast list too
Stage diagram showing you
Starting spots where dancers stand
Score notation, notes in hand
Six parts make the whole complete
Labanotation can't be beat
T-C-S-S-S-N, that's the way to remember when
[Verse 2]
Cast list follows with the dancers' names
Special symbols mark each person's role
Stage diagram maps the performance space
Shows direction, helps you stay in control
Starting position places every dancer
Where they begin before the movement starts
Like a photograph before the action
Each performer knows their opening part
[Chorus]
Title page and cast list too
Stage diagram showing you
Starting spots where dancers stand
Score notation, notes in hand
Six parts make the whole complete
Labanotation can't be beat
T-C-S-S-S-N, that's the way to remember when
[Bridge]
Then the score itself, the main attraction
All the movement written line by line
Finally the notes with extra details
Performance tips to make it shine
Six components working all together
Like a recipe for dance so fine
[Chorus]
Title page and cast list too
Stage diagram showing you
Starting spots where dancers stand
Score notation, notes in hand
Six parts make the whole complete
Labanotation can't be beat
T-C-S-S-S-N, that's the way to remember when
[Outro]
From the title to the final note
Every dancer's story that they wrote
Labanotation's structure guides the way
Six parts strong, dance lives another day
34. 2 Reading Strategies
[Verse 1]
When you see those symbols dancing on the page
Don't get overwhelmed, take it stage by stage
Start with the support, that's where feet will go
Weight shifts and stepping, that's the first to know
Look for those thick lines in the center space
They show which foot carries all your body's weight
Left side and right side, read them from below
Step by step ascending, watch your movement grow
[Chorus]
Layer by layer, build it up slow
Support then gestures, that's the way to go
Arms come after, body follows through
Head and dynamics, relationship too
Read it like a story, bottom to the top
Layer by layer, never gonna stop
[Verse 2]
Once you've got the footwork solid in your mind
Add the leg gestures, leaving none behind
Thin lines show the reaching, kicking, lifting high
While the thick support keeps your balance nigh
Then the arms join in with their graceful flow
Direction and level, high and middle low
Each limb has its column, each its own clear space
Reading left to right across the movement phrase
[Chorus]
Layer by layer, build it up slow
Support then gestures, that's the way to go
Arms come after, body follows through
Head and dynamics, relationship too
Read it like a story, bottom to the top
Layer by layer, never gonna stop
[Bridge]
Body bends and twists now, head begins to turn
Every symbol matters, every mark you'll learn
Dynamics add the flavor, soft or sharp and strong
Relationship with others helps you move along
[Verse 3]
Don't try to read it all at once my friend
Break it into layers, that's how masters blend
Start with just the feet, then add piece by piece
Soon you'll read the whole score with complete ease
[Final Chorus]
Layer by layer, build it up slow
Support then gestures, that's the way to go
Arms come after, body follows through
Head and dynamics, relationship too
Read it like a story, bottom to the top
Layer by layer, you'll never stop
[Outro]
From support to gestures, arms and body too
Layer reading strategy will see you through
Step by step ascending, symbol after symbol
Labanotation reading made so simple
35. 3 Common Abbreviations and Conventions
[Verse 1]
When you're writing movement down in notation form
There are shortcuts that will keep your page from getting worn
Repeat signs save you time when phrases are the same
No need to write it twice, just use the repeat frame
[Chorus]
Abbreviations make it clean
Shortcuts for the dancing scene
Repeat signs, carets too
Ad lib when the choice is up to you
Segno, coda, navigation marks
Guide you through the movement parts
Labanotation made easy
These conventions keep it breezy
[Verse 2]
Caret marks are pointing up to tell you something clear
The movement that you started keeps on going here
Like an arrow showing continuation
Previous motion through the phrase duration
[Chorus]
Abbreviations make it clean
Shortcuts for the dancing scene
Repeat signs, carets too
Ad lib when the choice is up to you
Segno, coda, navigation marks
Guide you through the movement parts
Labanotation made easy
These conventions keep it breezy
[Verse 3]
Ad libitum means freedom, let the dancer choose their way
Interpretation in their hands for how the movement plays
Some sections need that personal artistic touch
The score says "make it yours" and that can mean so much
[Bridge]
From music notation borrowed
Segno and the coda too
Jump around the score tomorrow
Navigation guides you through
To the sign and to the ending
These marks will be your friend
Practice reading, comprehending
Till the symbols make perfect sense
[Chorus]
Abbreviations make it clean
Shortcuts for the dancing scene
Repeat signs, carets too
Ad lib when the choice is up to you
Segno, coda, navigation marks
Guide you through the movement parts
Labanotation made easy
These conventions keep it breezy
[Outro]
Take a published score today
Read through every single page
Find the shortcuts, find the signs
Movement reading, refined
36. 1 Notating from Observation
[Verse 1]
Watch the dancer move across the floor
See it once, then twice, then three times more
Every gesture tells a story true
But we need to catch each detail too
Don't rush to write what you think you see
Let the movement show its mystery
[Chorus]
Observe, identify, support comes first
Gestures layer by layer, don't reverse
Dynamics flow, then review the score
Six steps to notation, nothing more
Watch and write, write and check
From your eyes to symbols on the deck
[Verse 2]
Find the rhythm hiding in the phrase
Count the beats through all the dancer's ways
Musical structure guides our notation hand
Timing is the key to understand
Mark the measures, feel the pulse inside
Let the music be your faithful guide
[Chorus]
Observe, identify, support comes first
Gestures layer by layer, don't reverse
Dynamics flow, then review the score
Six steps to notation, nothing more
Watch and write, write and check
From your eyes to symbols on the deck
[Bridge]
Steps and weight shifts form the foundation
Every transfer needs documentation
Arms and head come in the second round
Layer upon layer, safe and sound
Quality marks show how movement flows
Soft or sharp, the body always knows
[Verse 3]
Read it back and dance what you have penned
Does it match from beginning to the end
If something's wrong, go back and make it right
Verification brings the truth to light
From observation to the written page
Movement captured for another age
[Final Chorus]
Observe, identify, support comes first
Gestures layer by layer, don't reverse
Dynamics flow, then review the score
Six steps to notation, nothing more
Watch and write, write and check
From your eyes to symbols on the deck
[Outro]
Six simple steps to catch the dance
Give every movement its proper chance
37. 2 Notating from Your Own Body
[Verse 1]
Move your body, feel the flow
Arms are lifting, nice and slow
Now freeze right there, don't hesitate
Write down what you just create
Every gesture has its place
In the symbols we can trace
[Chorus]
Move and feel, then write it down
Four to eight counts, all around
Mirror check or camera's eye
Shows the truth, no need to lie
Move and feel, then write it down
Labanotation's what we've found
[Verse 2]
Start with something small and clean
Simple steps that can be seen
Reach your arm up to the right
Mark the level, mark the height
Don't try to capture everything
Just the movement's basic swing
[Chorus]
Move and feel, then write it down
Four to eight counts, all around
Mirror check or camera's eye
Shows the truth, no need to lie
Move and feel, then write it down
Labanotation's what we've found
[Bridge]
Short phrases first, then build them longer
Practice makes your skills much stronger
What you felt becomes the key
To notation accuracy
Trust your body, trust the mirror
Step by step it gets much clearer
[Verse 3]
Video playback helps you see
What your movement's meant to be
Compare your notes with what you view
Make adjustments to stay true
Layer by layer, phrase by phrase
Build your notation in these ways
[Chorus]
Move and feel, then write it down
Four to eight counts, all around
Mirror check or camera's eye
Shows the truth, no need to lie
Move and feel, then write it down
Labanotation's what we've found
[Outro]
From your body to the page
Every movement, every stage
Feel it first, then make it last
Notation skills are building fast
38. 3 Software Tools
[Verse 1]
When you're ready to write down the dance
There are tools to give notation a chance
LabanWriter from Ohio's the start
Dedicated software, state of the art
Symbols and staff lines, movements precise
Digital scoring makes learning so nice
[Chorus]
Four tools to know, let's sing them today
LabanWriter, Calaban show you the way
MovEngine's new, LabanAssist helps you learn
Software for notation at every turn
Click and drag symbols, movements take flight
Digital Labanotation makes everything right
[Verse 2]
Calaban's another choice you can make
Movement notation software to take
Alternative option when you need more
Different interface, features galore
Both programs help you score every step
Digital tools keep your notation in check
[Chorus]
Four tools to know, let's sing them today
LabanWriter, Calaban show you the way
MovEngine's new, LabanAssist helps you learn
Software for notation at every turn
Click and drag symbols, movements take flight
Digital Labanotation makes everything right
[Bridge]
MovEngine brings the future near
Newer digital tools crystal clear
LabanAssist teaches while you write
Learning companion burning bright
From beginner to expert you'll grow
With software tools to help you flow
[Verse 3]
Choose your program, start to explore
Digital notation opens the door
Practice symbols, learn every sign
Software makes the process shine
Movement captured, stored with care
Digital dance notation everywhere
[Chorus]
Four tools to know, let's sing them today
LabanWriter, Calaban show you the way
MovEngine's new, LabanAssist helps you learn
Software for notation at every turn
Click and drag symbols, movements take flight
Digital Labanotation makes everything right
[Outro]
Software tools make notation flow
Digital dance helps your knowledge grow
39. 4 Common Notator Mistakes
[Verse 1]
When you start your dance notation
Don't forget the preparation
Where do arms and legs begin?
That's the key to writing clean
Every movement needs its home
Starting place must be well known
Without it dancers lose their way
Mark position one today
[Chorus]
Four mistakes that trip you up
In Laban scores that you write up
Starting place and symbol size
Moving parts and smooth goodbyes
Remember these four golden rules
Master your notation tools
Starting place and symbol size
Moving parts and smooth goodbyes
[Verse 2]
Keep your symbols all the same
Different sizes change the game
Bigger marks mean longer time
Smaller ones are quick and fine
If you mix them up by chance
Timing breaks inside your dance
Steady sizes keep the beat
Make your notation neat and sweet
[Chorus]
Four mistakes that trip you up
In Laban scores that you write up
Starting place and symbol size
Moving parts and smooth goodbyes
Remember these four golden rules
Master your notation tools
Starting place and symbol size
Moving parts and smooth goodbyes
[Verse 3]
When left arm stays in its place
Still needs marks upon your page
Silent parts need notation too
Show what's still as well as new
If you skip the steady side
Your notation cannot guide
Mark the moving and the still
Both together show your skill
[Bridge]
Don't forget those in-between
How you get from A to B
Smooth transitions make it flow
Help the dancer really know
Path from here to over there
Steps that bridge and movements share
[Chorus]
Four mistakes that trip you up
In Laban scores that you write up
Starting place and symbol size
Moving parts and smooth goodbyes
Remember these four golden rules
Master your notation tools
Starting place and symbol size
Moving parts and smooth goodbyes
[Outro]
Practice with your partner true
Let them read what you wrote through
Watch a folk dance, count sixteen
Make your digital scores clean
Starting place and symbol size
Moving parts and smooth goodbyes
40. 1 Dance Reconstruction
[Verse 1]
Deep in archives where the dances sleep
Notation scores in folders we keep
Dance Notation Bureau holds the key
New York's vault of choreography
Symbols on the page tell every move
Bodies frozen in time we can prove
[Chorus]
Reconstruct and bring it back to life
From the page to stage, cutting like a knife
Through the years the movement stays the same
Labanotation preserves the dancing flame
Read the code, feel the flow
Make the ancient dances grow
[Verse 2]
London's Language of Dance Centre stands
Guardian of scores from many lands
Each notation tells a dancer's tale
Arms and legs and jumps that never fail
Line by line we decode what was done
Bringing back the dances one by one
[Chorus]
Reconstruct and bring it back to life
From the page to stage, cutting like a knife
Through the years the movement stays the same
Labanotation preserves the dancing flame
Read the code, feel the flow
Make the ancient dances grow
[Bridge]
ICKL sets the standard worldwide
International rules we can't divide
Kinetography Laban is the name
Keeping notation methods all the same
From Berlin to Tokyo they meet
Making sure the system stays complete
[Verse 3]
Take the score and study every mark
Light the movement from the written spark
High and low and middle level space
Forward backward find your dancing place
What was lost can live and breathe again
Through the power of notation's pen
[Final Chorus]
Reconstruct and bring it back to life
From the page to stage, cutting like a knife
Through the years the movement stays the same
Labanotation preserves the dancing flame
Archives deep, standards high
Dance will never really die
[Outro]
From the page we make the body move
Reconstruction helps the dance improve
Yesterday's choreography
Lives forever in our memory
41. 2 Choreographic Analysis
[Verse 1]
When dancers move across the stage tonight
We can capture every step in notation sight
Mark the symbols down for spatial flow
Track the patterns that the dancers show
High and low, forward back
Every pathway we can track
[Chorus]
Space and rhythm, vocabulary too
Motifs that repeat, evolution's view
Read the symbols, see the story told
Choreographic secrets to unfold
Analyze, recognize
Movement patterns in disguise
[Verse 2]
Watch the rhythmic structures come alive
Quarter notes and syncopation thrive
How the music meets the dancer's beat
When the tempo makes the movement sweet
Fast or slow, the notation shows
Every timing as it goes
[Chorus]
Space and rhythm, vocabulary too
Motifs that repeat, evolution's view
Read the symbols, see the story told
Choreographic secrets to unfold
Analyze, recognize
Movement patterns in disguise
[Bridge]
From first rehearsal to the final show
Watch how choreography can grow and flow
Same dance, different cast
Evolution happens fast
Mark the changes, note the growth
Document them both
[Verse 3]
Every choreographer has their own style
Spatial preferences you can read and file
Do they favor center stage or side
Where do dancers turn and where they glide
Personal signatures in every score
That's what notation's for
[Chorus]
Space and rhythm, vocabulary too
Motifs that repeat, evolution's view
Read the symbols, see the story told
Choreographic secrets to unfold
Analyze, recognize
Movement patterns in disguise
[Outro]
Through notation we can understand
Every gesture from the choreographer's hand
Analysis reveals the deeper art
Breaking down each dancing part
42. 3 Cross-Disciplinary Applications
[Verse 1]
In a clinic where healing begins today
A therapist watches how patients move and sway
Every step and gesture needs to be tracked down
Labanotation writes it all without a sound
She documents the shoulder's limited reach
Records the way the injured ankle speaks
From baseline assessment to recovery's end
These movement symbols help the body mend
[Chorus]
Cross the lines between the fields we know
Laban's language helps the knowledge grow
Therapy, workplace, and machines that learn
Every discipline can take a turn
Movement notation spans from art to science
Breaking boundaries with movement guidance
[Verse 2]
In the factory where workers lift and bend
Ergonomics experts study every trend
Are the motions causing strain upon the back
Laban symbols show what movements we should track
They analyze the reach, the twist, the flow
Finding safer ways for bodies to go
Efficiency and safety hand in hand
Written down in symbols across the land
[Chorus]
Cross the lines between the fields we know
Laban's language helps the knowledge grow
Therapy, workplace, and machines that learn
Every discipline can take a turn
Movement notation spans from art to science
Breaking boundaries with movement guidance
[Bridge]
Robots learning how to walk like us
Animators bringing life without a fuss
Anthropologists preserving sacred dance
Sign language researchers given a chance
[Verse 3]
From the culture's ritual passed down through time
To the athlete perfecting their perfect climb
Every field that studies how we move our frame
Finds in Laban's system they can stake their claim
[Final Chorus]
Cross the lines between the fields we know
Laban's language helps the knowledge grow
Seven fields united by one voice
Movement notation gives them all a choice
From therapy to robots learning new
Labanotation works for me and you
[Outro]
Movement speaks a universal tongue
In every field this song gets sung
43. 4 Certification and Professional Practice
[Verse 1]
When you've learned to read and write the dance notation way
There's a path ahead to grow, credentials you can gain
Dance Notation Bureau holds the keys to certification
Teaching others how to move through written documentation
[Chorus]
CNT and CPN, ICKL makes us three
Certified Notation Teacher, that's your first degree
Professional Notator next, when you're ready to advance
International community, join the notation dance
[Verse 2]
CNT means you can teach, share the knowledge that you know
Help beginners learn the symbols, watch their understanding grow
Dance Notation Bureau tests your skills before you're certified
Prove you know the fundamentals, then you're qualified
[Chorus]
CNT and CPN, ICKL makes us three
Certified Notation Teacher, that's your first degree
Professional Notator next, when you're ready to advance
International community, join the notation dance
[Verse 3]
CPN's the higher level, for the pros who notate full-time
Complex choreography and scores, they capture every line
Years of practice and experience, advanced credential earned
Professional recognition for the expertise you've learned
[Chorus]
CNT and CPN, ICKL makes us three
Certified Notation Teacher, that's your first degree
Professional Notator next, when you're ready to advance
International community, join the notation dance
[Bridge]
ICKL brings us all together, notators around the world
Sharing knowledge, building standards, our community unfurled
From beginner to professional, there's a place for everyone
In the world of Labanotation, we are never truly done
[Outro]
Take your time and learn it well, then decide which path to choose
Teaching, notating, or both, you really cannot lose
Join the global family, make notation your career
CNT and CPN, ICKL holds us dear
44. Books
[Verse 1]
When you start your journey into movement's art
There's a library waiting to help you start
Guest wrote the textbook, fourth edition's best
Labanotation's bible will guide your quest
[Chorus]
Five books to know, five books to learn
Movement notation, page by page we turn
Guest and Laban, Newlove too
Lawrence joined to see you through
Five books to know, your learning crew
[Verse 2]
Your Move's the beginning, Guest made it clear
New approach to movement, perfect to start here
Accessible language, concepts that flow
Building your foundation before deeper you go
[Chorus]
Five books to know, five books to learn
Movement notation, page by page we turn
Guest and Laban, Newlove too
Lawrence joined to see you through
Five books to know, your learning crew
[Verse 3]
Laban wrote the theory in Mastery of Movement
Foundational knowledge for your improvement
Understanding space and time and flow
The father of the system we've come to know
[Chorus]
Five books to know, five books to learn
Movement notation, page by page we turn
Guest and Laban, Newlove too
Lawrence joined to see you through
Five books to know, your learning crew
[Bridge]
Laban for All makes it simple and bright
Newlove and Dalby shed accessible light
Effort and Economy, Laban's second tome
With Lawrence beside him, you're never alone
[Verse 4]
From beginner basics to advanced technique
These five companions have the answers you seek
Guest guides your notation, Laban shows the way
Newlove makes it friendly, Lawrence helps you stay
[Final Chorus]
Five books to know, five books to learn
Movement notation, page by page we turn
Guest and Laban, Newlove too
Lawrence joined to see you through
Five books to know, they'll carry you
Five books to know, your learning crew
[Outro]
Build your library, stack them high
With these five books, you'll learn to fly
In Labanotation's world so bright
These authors guide you toward the light
45. Organizations
[Verse 1]
When you want to learn the language of dance and movement
There are places you can go for your improvement
Three organizations lead the way so bright
To teach you notation and get it right
Dance Notation Bureau is where you start
With courses and scores to learn the art
Certification programs, they've got it all
At dancenotation dot org, give them a call
[Chorus]
DNB for courses, LODC for learning
ICKL for conferences, knowledge you're earning
Three organizations, remember these names
Dancing notation, they're leading the games
Bureau, Centre, ICKL too
They'll teach Labanotation to me and you
[Verse 2]
Language of Dance Centre across the sea
In London town, they hold the key
Education and resources, that's their way
At lodc dot org, learn every day
From the United Kingdom, they spread the word
Making sure that movement's clearly heard
London-based but reaching far and wide
With dancing language as their guide
[Chorus]
DNB for courses, LODC for learning
ICKL for conferences, knowledge you're earning
Three organizations, remember these names
Dancing notation, they're leading the games
Bureau, Centre, ICKL too
They'll teach Labanotation to me and you
[Bridge]
ICKL brings the world together
International meetings, rain or shine or weather
Conferences for sharing, standards they develop
Research and advancement, help the field to evolve up
At ickl dot org, the future's being written
With Labanotation, everyone's smitten
[Verse 3]
Three websites to remember, three paths to take
Each organization for the movement's sake
Whether you need courses, resources, or research
These groups will help you in your notation search
[Final Chorus]
DNB for courses, LODC for learning
ICKL for conferences, knowledge you're earning
Three organizations, now you know their names
Dancing notation, they're winning the games
Bureau, Centre, ICKL too
Labanotation's waiting there for you
[Outro]
Three organizations leading the way
For Labanotation, they're here to stay
46. Software
[Verse 1]
When you want to write down how bodies move and flow
There's software made to help you learn and grow
LabanWriter from Ohio State will be your friend
Notation symbols dancing from beginning to end
Click and drag the symbols, watch them come alive
Movement scores and sequences help your dance survive
[Chorus]
Software tools to capture every step
LabanWriter, Calaban, MovEngine prep
Write it down, play it back, see it move
Digital notation helps you find your groove
Three programs working hand in hand
Making Laban simple to understand
[Verse 2]
Calaban reads your symbols like a magic spell
Takes your written movement and performs it well
Animation flowing smooth across your screen
Shows you how the body moves in spaces in between
From paper into pixels, watch the dance unfold
Stories told through movement, new and ancient old
[Chorus]
Software tools to capture every step
LabanWriter, Calaban, MovEngine prep
Write it down, play it back, see it move
Digital notation helps you find your groove
Three programs working hand in hand
Making Laban simple to understand
[Bridge]
MovEngine drives the motion, calculations true
Physics meets the dance floor, bringing life to you
Weight and time and space and flow
All connected, watch them go
Technology and art unite
Making movement shine so bright
[Verse 3]
Start with LabanWriter, learn to place each mark
Calaban will show you movement light and dark
MovEngine keeps it real with natural motion laws
Three together teaching without any pause
From beginner steps to complex choreography
Software makes it simple, movement poetry
[Chorus]
Software tools to capture every step
LabanWriter, Calaban, MovEngine prep
Write it down, play it back, see it move
Digital notation helps you find your groove
Three programs working hand in hand
Making Laban simple to understand
[Outro]
Download, learn, and practice every day
Software makes the Laban notation way
Much easier to master, much easier to see
Movement writing digital, dance technology
47. Online Learning
[Verse 1]
When you can't get to the studio floor
There's a way to learn what you're looking for
Dance Notation Bureau shows the way
Online classes every single day
From your home computer, learn to read
Movement symbols that you really need
[Chorus]
Click and learn, step by step
Online courses you won't forget
D-N-B distance learning's here
Labanotation crystal clear
Log in now, the world's your stage
Movement notation, digital age
[Verse 2]
Ohio State and Surrey too
Universities with courses just for you
Dance programs teaching notation skills
Through computer screens that give you thrills
Professors guide you frame by frame
Playing the movement reading game
[Chorus]
Click and learn, step by step
Online courses you won't forget
D-N-B distance learning's here
Labanotation crystal clear
Log in now, the world's your stage
Movement notation, digital age
[Bridge]
ICKL papers, conference gold
Research stories waiting to be told
Download knowledge, print and read
Scholarly work is what you need
Community of learners worldwide
Technology becomes your guide
[Verse 3]
No more traveling far away
Learn Laban from where you stay
Interactive lessons, videos too
Practice exercises made for you
Submit your homework with a click
Online learning does the trick
[Chorus]
Click and learn, step by step
Online courses you won't forget
D-N-B distance learning's here
Labanotation crystal clear
Log in now, the world's your stage
Movement notation, digital age
[Outro]
From bedroom to the global dance
Online learning gives you the chance
Labanotation at your pace
Digital learning, movement's grace
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