A choreographer is a person who creates and directs the routines for dance, gymnastics, and other forms of performance art. He or she devotes a significant amount of time to creating, editing, and practicing routines to ensure that they are in sync with the music, challenge the audience, and entertain the judges. Although some professional choreographers run their own businesses and provide freelance services on a contract basis, the majority of choreographers work for dance studios and schools, music video or television production companies, and universities.
A professional dance choreographer may work with a single dancer, a couple, or an entire cast. He or she pays close attention to a piece of music, calculating the timing and nature of various dance steps. Most choreographers work closely with dancers, modeling movements and giving verbal instructions. They offer guidance and encouragement to dancers so that they can perfect their routines before performing in front of an audience. A choreographer’s job is demanding and time-consuming; a professional may spend weeks or months devising, arranging, directing practice, and tweaking a difficult dance piece.
Gymnasts, cheerleaders, divers, ice skaters, and others who participate in events where physical maneuvers are predetermined can use a highly skilled choreographer’s knowledge of the human body and its movement to choreograph routines. For example, a gymnastics choreographer might work with a competitive team to help them create challenging, aesthetically pleasing routines on floor exercises, parallel bars, and rings. Stunts and dance numbers may be combined by an expert working with a cheerleading team to keep crowds entertained and excited. Other choreographers may work for a film or television studio, directing chases or fight scenes.
The majority of working choreographers have been involved with dance and music since childhood. They’ve spent years studying dancers, routines, and music pieces to figure out how and when to execute certain moves. Individuals with extensive dance experience who want to become professional choreographers can improve their credentials and gain an academic perspective on dance and movement by pursuing degrees from universities or certificates from accredited dance schools. Many new choreographers start out by assisting established professionals in the industry and practicing simple routines, eventually progressing to longer or more detailed work after a few years in the industry.