Aural Setting

• Aural setting refers to the use of sound, music, or voice in a dance performance to enhance the mood, create rhythm, and support the choreographic intent.
• It can also influence the interpretation of a dance piece by contributing to the overall energy, emotion, and tone.
• This setting can include either live or recorded music, words, natural sound or silence.
• Not every dance performance will have the same aural setting. It can vary greatly depending on the dance style, choreographic objective, and historical or cultural context.
• It’s important to understand that aural setting isn’t limited to music. It can also include sound effects, spoken word, silence and more.
• The choices made about the aural setting can communicate a lot about the theme or narrative of the dance piece. For instance, dramatic music can indicate conflict, while silence can evoke tension.
• Analysis of aural setting involves listening to all the aspects of the piece, identifying its components, and understanding how they contribute to the overall, choreographic intent of the performance.
• Similarly, evaluations of aural setting in critical engagement relate to how well it fits with other elements like choreography, location, costume, performance, and more.
• Choreographers and dancers often work closely with composers and musicians to develop an aural setting that complements the dance.
• In summary, aural setting can be a powerful tool for enhancing the storytelling of a dance performance and connecting with the audience.