Introduction to Finnstep
Finnstep is a captivating and lively ice dance pattern known for its fun, light character reminiscent of “sparkling champagne”. This unique dance combines intricate footwork, precise timing, and an upbeat tempo to create a memorable performance on the ice.
What is Finnstep?
At its core, Finnstep is a specific pattern used in competitive ice dancing. It features a series of complex steps and turns that dancers must execute with crisp precision and effortless flair. The Finnstep pattern is highly technical, requiring mastery of edges, turns, and exacting foot placement to achieve the desired champagne-like effervescence.
The Finnstep draws inspiration from the ballroom Quickstep dance, embodying its fast-paced, lighthearted spirit. Dancers aim to exhibit a carefree, joyful attitude on the ice while navigating the intricacies of the pattern. This fusion of technical prowess and artistic expression is what makes the Finnstep so compelling to watch.
Characteristics of Finnstep
Several key elements define the character and execution of the Finnstep:
- Upbeat tempo: The music is a lively Quickstep in 2/4 time, played at 104 beats per minute. This brisk pace infuses the dance with energy and verve.
- Compact duration: A full Finnstep pattern consists of two sequences lasting approximately 1:16 minutes. The relative brevity necessitates impeccable timing and stamina.
- Crisp footwork: Clean, precise foot placement is paramount. Each step should be distinct and purposeful, with emphasis on neat crosses, tidy tucks, and avoiding sloppy edges.
- Upright carriage: Dancers maintain an upright upper body throughout, with lifted chests and heads to convey the dance’s buoyant essence. Posture should appear effortless and jaunty.
- Character and expression: Finnstep technique is a vehicle for portraying vivacity and merriment. Facial expressions and body language should exude genuine enjoyment, inviting the audience to share in the fun.
When all of these facets come together harmoniously, a well-executed Finnstep is an absolute delight to behold. The best performances make the intensely athletic appear airy and effortless – the mark of true ice dance mastery.
History of Finnstep
Invention and Development
The Finnstep has an intriguing origin story, stemming from a collaborative effort by ice dance greats. The pattern was invented by Finnish ice dancers Susanna Rahkamo and Petri Kokko along with Ukrainian coach Martin Skotnicky in the mid-1990s.
Their vision was to craft a dance that captured the lively, humorous spirit of the Quickstep and translate it to the ice. Rahkamo and Kokko were known for their innovative approach, often incorporating unusual dance styles into their programs.
To bring the Finnstep from concept to reality, the trio enlisted the help of coaches Kati Winkler and René Lohse. Together they fine-tuned the pattern and worked out the technical details to make it suitable for competition. Their efforts pioneered a new direction for ice dance.
First Performance at European Championships 1995
The Finnstep made its grand debut on the world stage at the 1995 European Championships in Dortmund, Germany. Susanna Rahkamo and Petri Kokko, the co-creators of the dance, had the honor of first presenting their brainchild to the public and judges.
Their inaugural Finnstep performance was met with great curiosity and interest from the ice dance community. The never-before-seen pattern was unlike the more traditional waltzes and tangos typical of the discipline at the time. Rahkamo and Kokko’s fresh take on the Quickstep brought a new flavor and energy to the competition.
While not yet an official part of competitive ice dancing, this milestone exhibition introduced a wider audience to the Finnstep’s potential. It planted the seed for the dance to later be adapted and formalized into the competition repertoire.
Technical Aspects of Finnstep
Music and Tempo
The musical accompaniment for the Finnstep is a speedy Quickstep in 2/4 tempo, played at a brisk 104 beats per minute. This lively pace is a defining characteristic of the dance, infusing it with vibrancy and driving the choreography forward.
The prescribed duration for the full pattern is 1:16 minutes, encompassing two repetitions of the step sequence. This succinct timeframe demands unwavering stamina and precision from the dancers to maintain the energy and intricacy required.
Music choice within these set parameters is crucial for an effective Finnstep. The melody should have pronounced, energetic phrasing to accentuate the rapid steps and directional changes. Bright brass, precise piano, and crisp, steady percussion are popular instrumental choices to underscore the dance’s cheeky character.
Key Sections and Moves
The Finnstep pattern is divided into several distinct segments, each with its own technical and artistic challenges:
| Section | Key Elements |
|---|---|
| Promenade | Emphasis on upbeats, fast twizzles, outside edges |
| Quick Crosses | Rapid cross-steps, tidy feet, crisp timing |
| Zig-Zag Pattern | Alternating direction, deep edges, strong knee action |
| Highlight lifts | Variety of short lifts, often stationary or rotational |
Throughout the dance, cleanliness of execution is prioritized over dramatically large movement. The rapid pace leaves little margin for error, so each step must be purposeful and distinct. Proper striking of the blade and precisely timed shifting of body weight are key to achieving the desired clarity and buoyancy.
Transitions between steps should be seamless and secure, with the partners maintaining a close hold throughout. The dancers should strive for unison while still allowing space for individual expression and flair. The intricate partnering and fast directional changes necessitate a strong connection and excellent spatial awareness.
Execution and Performance Tips
While technical mastery is non-negotiable for a successful Finnstep, it is the performance quality that elevates it from a sequence of steps to a work of art. The best dancers imbue the choreography with a sense of adventure, charm, and joy.
Some key tips for a captivating Finnstep performance:
- Internalize the staccato, energetic character of the music and let it shine through your skating. Match crisp, precise steps to melodic accents.
- Maintain a lifted, alert posture, but keep the shoulders and arms relaxed. Aim for jaunty effortlessness rather than rigid perfection.
- Don’t forget to smile! Radiate genuine enjoyment of the dance and connection with your partner. The audience should feel your contagious joie de vivre.
- Embrace the quirkiness and humor inherent in the movement. These little moments of levity endear the audience and judges.
- Prioritize unison and synchronicity with your partner. Match lines, edges, and body angles for a cohesive visual impression. The best teams should move as one.
A brilliant Finnstep should leave an impression of champagne-like effervescence, with the jaunty choreography etched in the viewers’ minds and a thirst for more. Even as the dancers catch their breath after the whirlwind of steps, the audience should be invigorated and delighted, infected by the couple’s exuberant esprit.
Notable Finnstep Performances
Virtue/Moir and Other Famous Performers
Several world-class ice dancers have left their mark on the Finnstep pattern, demonstrating its potential for dynamic, show-stopping performances. Perhaps the most famous are Canadian ice dance legends Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir, who thrilled audiences with their masterful interpretation of the dance.
Virtue/Moir’s Finnstep was unfailingly fast, yet appeared effortless and lighthearted. Their seamless unison, emotional connection, and rapid-fire twizzles set the standard for subsequent performers. They showcased their Finnstep prowess at several major competitions, including the 2013 Grand Prix Final.
Other notable Finnstep performances include:
- Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte (ITA): Playful, cheeky interpretation with creative partnering sections
- Madison Chock and Evan Bates (USA): Smooth speed and effortless ice coverage in the zig-zag section
- Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri (ITA): Jazzy, Broadway-esque character portrayed with flair and impeccable timing
While each team brings their own flavor and style to the dance, the unifying hallmarks are brisk pace, exacting stepwork, and a sense of refreshing, champagne-like effervescence. A well-executed Finnstep is a surefire crowd pleaser and a testament to an ice dance team’s technical and artistic range.
Popular Finnstep Videos on YouTube
For those eager to study the Finnstep in more depth, YouTube offers a trove of educational resources and exemplary performances. Some popular searches include:
- “Real Time Finnstep Guide”: Produced by the channel Ice Dance Explained, this video breaks down each section of the Finnstep pattern step by step, with detailed technique notes.
- “Virtue/Moir Finnstep 2013 GPF”: A fan favorite, this video captures Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir’s dynamic, crowd-pleasing performance at the 2013 Grand Prix Final.
- “Madison/Donohue Finnstep Rehearsal 2021”: This behind-the-scenes clip shows U.S. ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates drilling the intricacies of the Finnstep in practice, illustrating the immense training required.
- “Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte Finnstep To ‘Let’s Be Bad'”: A charming program from the Italian team, showcasing their superb character and expression skills.
In the comments section, knowledgeable fans and fellow skaters often offer insightful critiques and observations. Aspiring ice dancers can gain valuable tips from this crowd-sourced wisdom, supplementing the visual learning provided by the videos themselves.
Learning and Practicing Finnstep
Real-Time Finnstep Guide
For ice dancers eager to learn the Finnstep pattern, an excellent starting point is the “Real-Time Finnstep Guide” video on the Ice Dance Explained YouTube channel. This comprehensive tutorial breaks down each section of the dance step by step, providing detailed technical notes and demonstrating the sequence in real time.
The guide begins with an overview of the Finnstep’s defining characteristics – its staccato Quickstep rhythm, lively tempo, and bubbly character. It then delves into the dance’s structure, explaining the order and duration of each section.
With experienced coaches providing the explanations, learners can benefit from their insights on common pitfalls and best practices. Key technical focus points include:
- Maintaining cleanliness and precision of foot placement, even at high speeds
- Achieving unison and matching lines with your partner
- Hitting crisp timing and phrasing to match the music
- Developing sufficient stamina to maintain energy and technique throughout
The guide also stresses the importance of performance quality and offers tips for embodying the cheeky, jovial spirit of the Finnstep. Facial expressions, body carriage, and even humor can elevate the choreography and endear the skaters to the audience.
By studying the real-time breakdowns and drills, then putting them into practice on the ice, aspiring ice dancers can begin to master the intricacies of this challenging yet incredibly fun pattern dance. With dedication and repetition, the Finnstep’s numerous technical elements will start to feel more natural and automatic, allowing greater freedom of expression.
Tips from Professional Ice Dancers
In addition to video tutorials, insights from accomplished ice dance professionals can be invaluable for skaters refining their Finnstep technique. Some key wisdom from seasoned competitors:
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “Practice slow to perform fast” | Drilling each step deliberately at a reduced tempo builds muscle memory and ensures clean execution when the pace ratchets up. |
| “Don’t forget to breathe” | Maintaining even, controlled breathing despite the aerobic challenge helps keep the body relaxed and promotes stamina. |
| “Connect with your partner” | Amidst intense concentration, keep attuned to your partner’s body language and energy. Responding intuitively makes unison appear effortless. |
| “Tell a story” | Developing an underlying narrative or character arc brings cohesion and purpose to the choreography, elevating the program from a series of steps to a full artistic statement. |
Above all, the resounding advice is to approach the Finnstep with a sense of joy and verve. View the pattern as an opportunity to prove your technical mettle while spreading delight to those watching. By keeping the spirit lively and unrestrained, you are embodying the very essence of the dance.
Embrace the process of trial and error, celebrating the small victories as you go. With each practice session, you are internalizing the unique rhythms, developing invaluable muscle memory, and imbuing your skating with bubbly, champagne-like effervescence. In time, the Finnstep’s myriad challenges will translate to a thrilling freedom of expression on the ice.
Conclusion
The Future of Finnstep
Since its inception in the mid-1990s and debut at the European Championships in ’95, the Finnstep has developed into a beloved staple of the competitive ice dance world. Its freshness, fun factor, and undeniable crowd appeal have solidified its place in the repertoire for years to come.
As ice dance continues to evolve, with ever-increasing emphasis on innovative choreography and creative expression, the Finnstep offers skaters an ideal canvas. The pattern’s set framework provides a level playing field to showcase technical mastery, while still allowing for individual artistic interpretation.
Future iterations of the Finnstep will likely incorporate even more adventurous lifts, daring momentum, and intricate partnering sequences. The brisk staccato timing and bubbly character leave ample room for playfulness and push-the-envelope choreography as the next generation of ice dance teams leaves their mark.
At its core, however, the Finnstep will always be a fast and joyful romp around the rink. It is a reminder to competitors and audiences alike that for all the gravity-defying tricks and intense athleticism, ice dance is, at heart, an exuberant celebration on ice. As long as there are skates to lace up and music to quicken the pulse, the Finnstep will be there, spreading champagne-fizz delight.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the Finnstep is a milestone achievement for any competitive ice dancer. It is a testament to both impeccable technical control an
Conclusion
The Future of Finnstep
Since its inception in the mid-1990s and debut at the European Championships in ’95, the Finnstep has developed into a beloved staple of the competitive ice dance world. Its freshness, fun factor, and undeniable crowd appeal have solidified its place in the repertoire for years to come.
As ice dance continues to evolve, with ever-increasing emphasis on innovative choreography and creative expression, the Finnstep offers skaters an ideal canvas. The pattern’s set framework provides a level playing field to showcase technical mastery, while still allowing for individual artistic interpretation.
Future iterations of the Finnstep will likely incorporate even more adventurous lifts, daring momentum, and intricate partnering sequences. The brisk staccato timing and bubbly character leave ample room for playfulness and push-the-envelope choreography as the next generation of ice dance teams leaves their mark.
At its core, however, the Finnstep will always be a fast and joyful romp around the rink. It is a reminder to competitors and audiences alike that for all the gravity-defying tricks and intense athleticism, ice dance is, at heart, an exuberant celebration on ice. As long as there are skates to lace up and music to quicken the pulse, the Finnstep will be there, spreading champagne-fizz delight.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the Finnstep is a milestone achievement for any competitive ice dancer. It is a testament to both impeccable technical control and mature artistic sensibility.
The quest for the perfect Finnstep is one of patience, perseverance, and a whole lot of perspiration. It requires internalizing complex rhythms and coordinating them through your whole body, maintaining stamina at a near-sprinter’s pace, and never losing your cool.
True success means making the intensely difficult appear effortless and jubilant. When all the training, focus, and sweat fades into the background and only the joy shines through – that’s when you know you’ve truly conquered this exhilarating dance.
So whether you’re an aspiring ice dance competitor or simply a fan of the sport’s beauty and athleticism, take a moment to appreciate the bubbly brilliance of a finely-tuned Finnstep. Raise a metaphorical glass of champagne to the high-flying kicks, dizzying twizzles, and beaming grins that make this dance such a beloved spectacle. In a world of gravity, the Finnstep is a two-minute reminder that sometimes, we can soar.
#ED#
