Yesterday I taught an advanced level modern technique class at Connecticut College, and was impressed by the enormous studio they have, which also converts into a showcase theater. The views out the window were that of pine trees… how rare!!! Richard Schenk, the accompanist there, had been working for 27 years at his craft as a dance accompanist, and kicked-up his musical chops on the accordian, piano, guitar, tambourine, and drums. He said he also plays the cello and other instruments… what doesn’t he play? Wow, what a talent!!
I always love to work with fine musicians, as dancers really need the support of good music. What happened to all the male dancers? There was only one in the class, the rest were young women. All seemed to work up a nice sweat and I had fun pulling out some rep from the archives. One of the students can boast that her mother was a dancer from Dance Theater of Harlem, who made quite a name for herself. Her name is Gayle McKinney Griffith. I met her when I saw their Spring concert and she was cheering on her daughter. How nice to pass down the gift from one generation to the next.
Modern dance is alive and well and living in the annals of Connecticut College!
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| A few dancers after class | Group hug | Shall we waltz? |
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| A nice duo |