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M-A in Dance at Guru Nanak Dev University
Amritsar, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is Dance at Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar?
This M.A. Dance program at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, focuses on a holistic understanding of dance, encompassing Indian classical, folk, and western forms, alongside theoretical, historical, and practical aspects. It delves into the rich cultural heritage of India, preparing students for diverse roles in the vibrant Indian arts and culture industry, distinguishing itself with a strong emphasis on both performance and academic rigor.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Dance, Music, Fine Arts, or Theatre seeking entry into professional dance careers, higher education, or arts administration. It also caters to aspiring performers, choreographers, educators, and researchers looking to deepen their artistic knowledge and critical understanding within the Indian dance landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue fulfilling career paths as professional dancers, choreographers, dance educators in schools and universities, arts administrators, or cultural journalists in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in performance, teaching, or arts management roles, contributing to India''''s thriving cultural sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Dance Techniques and Theory- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to rigorous practical training in chosen classical dance forms, focusing on fundamental postures, gestures, and rhythmic patterns. Simultaneously, engage deeply with theoretical subjects like dance history, aesthetics, and music for dance. Utilize university library resources and online academic platforms for supplementary readings.
Tools & Resources
Official Syllabus for technique details, University library for historical texts, Online dance journals (e.g., Attendance, Narthanam)
Career Connection
A strong foundation in both practical and theoretical aspects is crucial for auditions, academic pursuits, and developing a comprehensive understanding that underpins all professional dance careers.
Build Body Awareness and Prevent Injuries- (Semester 1-2)
Actively apply knowledge from ''''Anatomy and Physiology'''' and ''''Yoga and Naturopathy'''' classes. Incorporate daily yoga, stretches, and conditioning exercises specific to dancers to enhance flexibility, strength, and stamina. Pay close attention to proper body alignment and seek guidance from instructors for injury prevention techniques.
Tools & Resources
Yoga apps (e.g., Daily Yoga), Dance-specific conditioning videos, Consult with dance faculty and physiotherapists
Career Connection
Maintaining physical health and preventing injuries is paramount for a long and sustainable career as a performer or teacher, ensuring consistent high-level performance.
Actively Participate in Departmental Performances and Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Seize every opportunity to perform in departmental showcases, cultural festivals, and inter-university competitions. Attend workshops conducted by visiting artists and gurus to gain exposure to different styles and pedagogical approaches. Engage with peers for collaborative practice and feedback sessions.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, University cultural committees, Local dance festivals
Career Connection
Performance experience is vital for building stage presence, confidence, and a professional portfolio. Networking with artists and learning diverse styles expands your artistic versatility and potential career avenues.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake In-depth Dance Research and Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
Apply research methodologies to explore specific areas of dance history, theory, or practice. Select a topic for your project/dissertation early, conduct thorough literature reviews, and engage in critical analysis. Seek mentorship from faculty for guidance on academic writing and research ethics.
Tools & Resources
GNDU Research Portal, JSTOR, Google Scholar for academic papers, EndNote/Zotero for citation management
Career Connection
Developing strong research skills opens doors to academic careers, archival work, arts criticism, and contributes to the intellectual discourse of dance, adding depth to performance practice.
Develop Advanced Choreographic and Creative Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Actively engage in creative dance practicals, focusing on improvisation, movement exploration, and original choreography. Experiment with different themes, musical forms, and spatial arrangements. Seek constructive feedback from peers and mentors to refine your choreographic voice.
Tools & Resources
Dance studios for practice, Music composition software (e.g., Audacity), Video recording for self-critique
Career Connection
Strong choreographic skills are essential for becoming an independent artist, creating new works, and contributing innovatively to the dance world, leading to roles as a choreographer or artistic director.
Network and Explore Industry Management- (Semester 3-4)
Utilize the ''''Management & Organization of Dance Events'''' knowledge to volunteer for organizing departmental or local dance events. Network with event managers, cultural organizations, and experienced artists. Attend arts management seminars to understand the business side of dance.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, Local arts councils, Industry webinars and conferences
Career Connection
Understanding event management and networking within the arts industry can lead to roles in arts administration, festival curation, and managing your own dance company or productions after graduation.
Advanced Stage
Build a Professional Portfolio and Resume- (Post-graduation readiness)
Systematically document all your performances, choreographies, research projects, and academic achievements. Create a professional dance resume highlighting your skills, experiences, and artistic vision. Develop a strong online presence through a website or social media showcasing your work.
Tools & Resources
Professional photography/videography, Canva for resume design, Wix/Squarespace for portfolio website
Career Connection
A compelling portfolio and resume are crucial for securing auditions, teaching positions, grants, and artistic projects, serving as your primary professional identity.
Engage in Continuous Learning and Skill Refinement- (Post-graduation readiness)
After graduation, continue to attend advanced masterclasses, workshops, and short-term courses in specific dance forms or related disciplines (e.g., lighting design, stagecraft). Stay updated with contemporary dance trends and theoretical developments through publications and performances.
Tools & Resources
Reputable dance academies, Online learning platforms (e.g., Coursera, edX for arts-related courses), Professional dance company workshops
Career Connection
Lifelong learning is essential for artistic growth, adapting to industry changes, and maintaining a competitive edge in a dynamic field like dance, enabling sustained career development.
Explore Teaching and Arts Advocacy Opportunities- (Post-graduation readiness)
Seek opportunities to teach dance in schools, private academies, or community centers to gain pedagogical experience. Engage in arts advocacy by participating in initiatives that promote dance education and cultural preservation, utilizing your understanding of ''''Dance and Society''''.
Tools & Resources
Local schools and cultural centers, National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) initiatives, Ministry of Culture programs
Career Connection
Teaching develops leadership and communication skills, while advocacy positions you as a thought leader and contributes to the broader impact of dance, opening paths in education, non-profits, or government cultural bodies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. with Dance/ Music/ Fine Arts/ Theatre with 50% marks in aggregate or any other examination recognized equivalent thereto (as per 2023-24 prospectus, most recent available)
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 128 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for theory papers), External: 75% (for theory papers), 100% (for practical papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA.DAN.101T | History of Indian Dance (From Vedic to 19th Century) | Core Theory | 4 | Origin of Dance in India, Natyashastra and its Principles, Classical Dance Forms Evolution, Traditional Dance Styles, Development through various Eras |
| MA.DAN.102T | Aesthetics and Principles of Dance | Core Theory | 4 | Concept of Rasa, Bhava, Anubhava, Abhinaya (Angika, Vachika, Aharya, Sattvika), Aesthetic Theories of Dance, Principles of Movement and Expression, Role of Emotions in Performance |
| MA.DAN.103T | Music for Dance – I (Theory) | Core Theory | 4 | Fundamentals of Indian Music, Ragas and their Structure, Tal and Rhythm Concepts, Musical Instruments in Dance, Basic Notations and Terminology |
| MA.DAN.104T | Anatomy and Physiology of Human Body (Relevant to Dance) | Core Theory | 4 | Skeletal and Muscular Systems, Physiology of Movement, Body Mechanics and Alignment, Respiratory and Nervous Systems, Common Dance Injuries and Prevention |
| MA.DAN.105P | Practical (Classical Dance Form) | Core Practical | 12 | Basic Stance and Postures, Hand Gestures (Mudras), Footwork and Rhythmic Patterns, Expressive Movements, Traditional Dance Repertoire |
| MA.DAN.106SC | S.C. Practical (Folk Dance) | Skill Enhancement Practical | 4 | Introduction to Indian Folk Dances, Regional Folk Dance Forms (e.g., Bhangra, Gidha), Traditional Costumes and Music, Basic Folk Dance Movements, Performance Techniques for Folk Dances |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA.DAN.201T | History of Indian Dance (20th Century) | Core Theory | 4 | Revival and Reinterpretation of Dance, Contributions of Gurus and Pioneers, Emergence of New Dance Forms, Modern Trends and Experiments, Contemporary Indian Choreography |
| MA.DAN.202T | History of Western Dance (Classical & Contemporary) | Core Theory | 4 | History of Ballet and its Styles, Modern Dance Pioneers (e.g., Martha Graham), Postmodern and Contemporary Dance, Jazz Dance and Hip-Hop Influences, Western Choreographic Innovations |
| MA.DAN.203T | Music for Dance – II (Theory) | Core Theory | 4 | Advanced Raga Structures, Complex Tala Cycles, Vocal Music in Dance, Instrumental Music and Accompaniment, Interrelationship of Music and Dance |
| MA.DAN.204T | Yoga and Naturopathy (Relevant to Dance) | Core Theory | 4 | Yoga Asanas for Dancers, Pranayama and Breath Control, Meditation Techniques, Principles of Naturopathy, Holistic Health for Dancers |
| MA.DAN.205P | Practical (Classical Dance Form) | Core Practical | 12 | Advanced Classical Dance Techniques, Intricate Footwork and Rhythm, Nuances of Expressive Movement, Learning and Performing Traditional Repertoire, Developing Choreographic Sequences |
| MA.DAN.206SC | S.C. Practical (Creative Dance) | Skill Enhancement Practical | 4 | Improvisation Techniques, Modern Movement Explorations, Body Awareness and Control, Principles of Creative Choreography, Developing Original Dance Pieces |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA.DAN.301T | Research Methodology in Dance | Core Theory | 4 | Fundamentals of Research Design, Data Collection Methods in Dance, Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MA.DAN.302T | Indian Folk and Tribal Dances | Core Theory | 4 | Diversity of Indian Folk Dances, Characteristics of Tribal Dance Traditions, Cultural and Social Significance, Costumes, Music, and Rituals, Documentation and Preservation |
| MA.DAN.303T | World Dance Forms (Selected) | Core Theory | 4 | African Dance Traditions, Latin American Dance Forms, Asian Dance Cultures (e.g., Japan, China), European Folk and Social Dances, Global Dance Heritage and Cross-Cultural Exchange |
| MA.DAN.304T | Dance Criticism and Journalism | Core Theory | 4 | Elements of Dance Criticism, Writing Dance Reviews, Journalistic Ethics in Arts, Dance Documentation and Archiving, Media Representation of Dance |
| MA.DAN.305P | Practical (Classical/Creative Dance) | Core Practical | 12 | Advanced Technical Proficiency, Performance of Complex Repertoire, Individual and Group Choreographic Projects, Mastering Expressive Range, Ensemble and Synchronized Movements |
| MA.DAN.306PR | Project (Dance Research/Performance) | Project | 4 | Developing Project Proposal, Literature Review and Data Gathering, Methodology and Execution, Presentation of Findings/Performance, Viva-Voce Examination |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA.DAN.401T | Pedagogical Aspects of Dance | Core Theory | 4 | Teaching Methodologies in Dance, Curriculum Design for Dance Programs, Student Assessment and Evaluation, Dance Education for Diverse Learners, Professional Development for Dance Teachers |
| MA.DAN.402T | Management & Organization of Dance Events | Core Theory | 4 | Event Planning and Production, Budgeting and Financial Management, Marketing and Promotion Strategies, Sponsorship and Fundraising, Logistics and Technical Aspects |
| MA.DAN.403T | Interrelationship of Arts | Core Theory | 4 | Dance and Music Integration, Dance and Visual Arts (Painting, Sculpture), Dance and Literature (Poetry, Drama), Dance and Theatre, Multi-disciplinary Art Forms |
| MA.DAN.404T | Dance and Society | Core Theory | 4 | Dance as Social and Cultural Ritual, Gender and Identity in Dance, Dance as a Medium of Protest, Community Engagement through Dance, Preservation of Cultural Heritage |
| MA.DAN.405P | Practical (Advanced Choreography/Performance) | Core Practical | 12 | Mastering Advanced Choreography, Solo and Group Performance Preparation, Stage Presence and Presentation, Technical Proficiency and Artistic Expression, Developing Original Thematic Productions |
| MA.DAN.406PR | Dissertation/Project (Dance Studies) | Project | 4 | Independent Research and Analysis, Comprehensive Literature Review, Original Contribution to Dance Studies, Formal Dissertation Writing, Oral Presentation and Defense |
