Recent content by Jeanne

I've taken a few of Sahira's online classes--things that came in the Belly Dance Bundle. I basically like her, but I'm also doubtful about the Urban Gypsy thing, especially the use of the word Gypsy. Urban Gypsy appears to be the name of her tribal troupe...

My experience isn't as colorful as Zorba's, but I did teach a class in a park once. It was part of a promotional event organized by the studio where I was teaching at the time -- an afternoon of free classes showcasing the different styles the studio had. Some of my regular students were there...

Anybody have a translation for Ya Ward Ala Fol We Yasmin? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_Qremoae6Q

Renowned percussionist Mary Ellen Donald will present this year's program of her Middle Eastern Treasures series on February 24 in Alameda, California. Mary Ellen is creating an especially impressive show in 2018 to celebrate her 75th birthday later this year. The concert will include two...

Been cold and rainy for the last few days here in the Bay Area, and I think more is expected. Not pleasant, but since we're in drought recovery, it's nonetheless a good thing. To keep warm, I am making one of these:

Hmmmm. http://www.theguardian.com/music/2015/oct/21/jay-z-wins-copyright-infringement-case-big-pimpin-sample

You may have heard this elsewhere, but I don't think anyone's posted here yet. Oud master John Bilezikjian passed away on January 19. I did not have the pleasure of knowing him personally, but I'm thankful for his wonderful music. Gilded Serpent has a link on their front page to an older...

There seems to have been some weirdness going on with the phone lines during the call-in this year, but we were pretty lucky with my troupe's phoning party (the annual Brunch and Perpetual Redial Extravaganza) -- we managed to get through pretty early in the day. Khamsa will dance at 3:34...

O Shamadan, O Shamadan ...

Hi all, I'm writing an article about belly dance for a magazine aimed at dance teachers and studio owners. They'd like me to include something about what classes are like, possibly with some quotes from students. So, any of you care to share your thoughts? They want to hear about why people...

Bay Area folks: Mary Ellen Donald is starting a new beginner's doumbek class in January 2014. This is a great way to learn the basics of Arabic and Turkish rhythms as well as pick up a new skill. The class is held at Mary Ellen's home in West Oakland, and will be every other Saturday morning...

Hi folks! Happy Valentine's Day to all. I'm taking this momentuous occasion to announce that, after not having used one for years, I am adopting a new dance name: Janan. Simple, easy to pronounce, kind of close to my real name. And why am I announcing this on Valentine's Day? It means "heart." ;)

For your entertainment pleasure: YouTube - arab break dance batwanes beek (warda)

Although I've seen dancers use different versions of the same song at festivals and such (a couple of years ago I was at a big event and counted no fewer than five different versions of Al Leyla Wa Leyla), I've never seen two dancers use the exact same recording in the same show, and I always...

Have you seen this performer? (sorry if this has been posted before, but I didn't find it anywhere) He has pretty good stage presence and skill for his age. YouTube - Al Hassan: Belly Dance Drum Solo