Is there a difference...?

Question

Is there a difference between modern and contemporary dance? What is contemporary dance?

Answer 1

Contemporary is even newer than modern...LOL...
Seriously...

Modern dance is a dance form developed in the early 20th century. Although the term Modern dances has also been applied to a category of 20th Century ballroom dances, Modern dance as a term usually refers to 20th century concert dance.

Contemporary dance is the name given to a group of 20th century concert dance forms.

Rather than a specific dance technique contemporary dance is a collection of systems and methods developed from Modern and Postmodern dance. The development of contemporary dance was parallel but separate to the development of New dance in Britain. Distinctions can be made between European, Canadian and American Contemporary dance.

Answer 2

Contemporary dance might be considered "Hip Hop Dance" - while Modern is more related to the dance steps and positions of standard dance moves.

Answer 3

"Contemporary dance is the name given to a collection of dance systems and methods developed from Modern dance that incorporate new approaches to movements and choreography. It is a tool by which a dancer can draw on modern dance techniques to strengthen the body and increase flexibility. Contemporary dance is not a specific dance technique, as it utilizes many forms simultaneously."
(taken from my dance studio's brochure)

Answer 4

modern is a discipline started by isadora duncan and martha graham (and maybe ruth st denis) earlier in the 1900s. Modern dance is decades old.
Contemporary dance means NOW, the latest, newest stuff, not limited to 'modern' dance that was invented a long time ago.
hope this helps.

Answer 5

mostly its the same thing, but it really depends on who you talk to. usually contemporary can be modern, or lyrical. it is mostly known as the same as modern, though. :) hope i helped.