Hip Hop

I was scolded by Patrick again yesterday for being early and not listening to the music. He played the music again and explained the beats to me, in front of about 16 people. Then he wanted us to practice on that particular set of steps only. I was not angry with him for scolding me in front of so many people. In fact, I am thankful to him for explaining to me and want us to practice again just because of my mistake. I would prefer Patrick to point out my mistake instead of keeping quiet about it.

After class, Patrick asked me “What is Hip Hop to you?” This question made me ponder… Hip Hop has been a part of my lifestyle ever since 2 years back. I started Hip Hop in Oct/Nov 2005 because I was inspired by w-inds, especially Ryuichi. When I started it, I really have a hard time trying to follow. Frankly speaking, I cannot remember how I managed to survive those days. I started dance from scratch, with no background at all. Initially I attended Patrick’s lessons only once a week. Ever since last year, I have been attending twice a week.

Patrick said yesterday that those good in languages are good in dance. Hmm, I told him this is not applicable to me. He then said something like “You have not used this part of the brain for so long, so it will take time to get used to it. It takes time for improvement (I told him it took me 2 years but I am still at Beginner stage). You have improved, so have you (he referred to Hui Jun – she has dance backgroun). He finally said that I have improved!!! I told him I started from scratch. I guess he was quite impressed of my persistence and said “If there is no improvement, you will not come back again right?”

In fact I have noticed my slight improvement this year. I noticed that I can count beats this year. And it took me one year plus to be able to do it! Thanks to Justis too, he has taught me on how to listen to the beats and some basic moves.

Actually the first time when Patrick complimented me was when he told HJ and Lisa that initially I was lost but I managed to catch up. So he asked them to take me as a good example. Wow, I was so happy when I hear that.

I wondered before why I still go for Patrick’s classes even though he is temperamental. I guess I like his dance style and admire his will to impart his skills to the younger generation and want to groom them. Eguene once told me that Patrick will never say to his student that he/she has improved. I am glad that Patrick actually told me that and pointed out my mistakes in classes. He told me yesterday that I am lack of rhythm and do not listen to music. He rather me be late than early. I keep thinking about Patrick’s comment and am trying to figure out how to improve… I do find myself having problems to hit on the right beat. I need to go for more classes and seek help from expertise!