Good day folks.
Playing it safe or standing out? Standout I say by bringing high quality movements that compliment the presentation of the skills and support the musical theme. Do not standout by too edgy music or dance. This is an older traditional sport performed by modern gymnasts. I imagine all coaches can guide what is too edgy.
More complete answer below:
Choose dance (supporting music) not only for the moment, but for development.
As a Team Director I meet with athletes/parents in April/May. We review the previous year and establish skill, Team, athlete and competitive goals. One part of the athlete goals (L6-9) includes "dance." Dance, for the mtg., are the expression and quality movements in presentation of the FX and BB routines. Most of my L6-9's have specifics that they are improving in their ballet and dance technique. I include the dance goals within their upcoming FX and BB routines, within reason.
At the end of the mtg. we coaches create a routine planner. The FX routine planner portion includes suggested and required FX skills to be competed. Certainly these change, but we need it early to work and choreograph routines.
The athletes have been tasked to provide a short list (at the most 3 pieces of music) they are interested in. We review the music. Our team goals, different than many, is to have our athletes perform their FX routines in more of a collegial style. The higher energy and pace works for us. The two of us who coach the Optional groups have been collaborating on potential music for the athletes all season and late spring. We have suggested music ready for the athletes. Caveats include the music not be instantly recognizable (pop/movie music), have words that can be sung (obviously the music can not have words) and include a single music section to showcase some more classical dance elements.
Coaches choose and coordinate with the gymnast/parent in regards to the music. The athlete must love the music. We know the athlete well and having the best interest of the gymnast, including dance development, frequently have made alternative suggestions. In almost all cases the athlete/parent agree. I imagine, like most other coaches, I have seen, heard countless more FX music than the parent or gymnast. We have kept lists of suggested music and possible music per athlete on a collaborated "dropbox document" over the past year.
One example that pops to mind is that of a younger L8 Optional gymnast who needs more smooth movements to accompany her strong, powerful athletics. Her music selections were age predictable and were music she and heard at competitions. We suggested, from our list, similar music style, but more novel music, that had "space" to include or challenge her dance goals. Ballet time, scheduled during summer/Fall workouts have been worked in advance to include the dance elements that this athlete will be aiming at performing. Hard goal, smooth, expressive dance elements, but achievable with effort.
If I choose music and the accompanying dance not for the immediate moment, the gymnast develops and grows. Hopefully not lost in my long post is music appropriate for the gymnast, development and something that she will be able to look back in time and proudly enjoy.
Best, SBG -
