Modern Contemporary – weissmann Technique
with Cora Kartmann
Tuesdays, 19:45–21:15
Intermediate
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weissmann Technique
The weissmann technique is a method of teaching and training developed by Jennifer Mann and Heidi Weiss. It provides dancers with tools that support technical precision while they engage in a continual changing flow of movement. These tools facilitate clarity in motion without sacrificing the experience of a highly physical and engaging contemporary dance class.
A weissmann technique class is based upon a holistic approach, specific movement principles and an intelligent class structure. The dancer is perceived as an interactive environment consisting of mind, body, energy and spirit. Integration of yoga and mindfulness practices draw attention to these layers which helps cultivate focus, an awareness of energy and a healthy alignment. Organic movement is consistently sourced from breath, intention and flow. Specific principles are weaved into the teaching to increase articulation such as distinct qualities, initiation points and the analyzation of one’s relationship to gravity and music. These concrete tools help to convey more definition in motion, soften technical rigidity and encourage artistic expression. The overall efficiency of the weissmann technique rests upon the framework of the class “map”. The sequences move progressively from simple towards the complex. Targeted themes overlap and build upon one another carrying the class on an energetic journey through space. weissmann technique builds strength, flexibility, mobility, coordination and enhances conditioning. It prepares a dancer for an uninhibited range of movement. Soulful music, sometimes performed live, uplifts the spirit and supports the unfolding of the entire weissmann class. It is through music that the joy of moving is celebrated and intentionally utilized as a positive influence. This balanced play between freedom and structure, precision and fluidity, enjoyment and craft, is why weissmann technique works.
Learn more about the weissmann technique here!
About Cora
Cora Kartmann is a freelance dancer, choreographer, and dance educator based in Berlin. She studied contemporary dance pedagogy at the Music and Arts University of Vienna (MUK), deepened her practice through the weissmann teacher training programme, and worked for many years with choreographer Volker Eisenach in the field of Community Dance. In 2022, she co-founded the Impala Dance Company, creating interdisciplinary projects in cultural education, while also teaching modern and contemporary dance for children, adults, and professionals.
