Martha Graham Essay examples -- Dance Dancing Choreography Essays

Martha Graham Martha Graham was one of the most influential figures in American modern dance, and her techniques and styles are still practiced today. She became widely known throughout all ages and decades. Her first debut was in the 1920's. As time went on, she became more experienced and wiser in the modern dance field. Martha Graham, whose style was considered controversial, became one of the finest choreographers and dancers in the dance world. In 1894 Martha was born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania (Pratt 8). She was the daughter of Jane Beers and George Graham. Her father was a well-known physician who treated mental disorders. After living in Pennsylvania for 12 years, she and her family moved to Santa Barbara, California in 1908 (Harmon et al. 182). This was where she started studying modern dance in her earlier years. Martha's father played a big role in her life. Dr. Graham inspired his daughter to search for the meaning behind people's actions. As she sat in her father's office, she would look at the patients in bewilderment. The patients would blurt out words and move their arms and legs in a wild manner, making her even more curious about people's actions (Pratt 13). Dr. Graham then took his daughter to a performance of Ruth St. Denis in 1911 where she was mesmerized by the dancers (Harmon et al. 182). Martha entered Cumnock School of Expression after graduating from high school. There she trained in dance, drama, and self-expressions. Martha's love to study people's actions was incredibly strong. After Graham graduated from the junior college in 1916, she then enrolled in Denishawn School of Dance (182). She was recognized at the school for her talent and determination, not her potential a... ...d a bad case of pneumonia. Graham died on April 1, 1991 (100). Graham led an exciting and fulfilling life. Although her audiences may have had to get used to her innovative style of modern dance, she accomplished her dreams throughout the years and became a big success. Martha Graham became one of the finest dancers and choreographers in the world. Works Cited Harmon, Justin, et al. American Cultural Leaders. Santa Barbara: ABC-CLIO 1993. McLanathan, Richard and Gene Brown ed. The Arts. New York: New York Times Company, 1978. Mille, Agnes de and Helene Oblensky. American Dances. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc., 1980. "Modern Dance." Microsoft Encarta. 1997 ed. Pratt, Paula Bryant. The Importance of Martha Graham. San Diego: Lucent Books, Inc., 1995. Switzer, Ellen. Dancers! Horizons in American Dance. New York: Atheneum, 1982.