What’s the Difference Between Lyrical and Contemporary Dance?

If you're new to the world of dance, it's easy to confuse lyrical and contemporary styles. Both are expressive, emotional, and beautiful to watch—but they each have their own focus, technique, and feel. At Sharon’s Studio of Dance & Music, we offer both styles as separate classes, so dancers can explore the unique qualities of each.

Lyrical Dance: Telling a Story Through Movement

Lyrical dance is all about connecting emotionally to the music. Dancers interpret the lyrics of a song using movements that blend ballet and jazz technique. This style is often soft, graceful, and focused on storytelling.

You'll often see:

• Expressive arm movements and facial expressions

• Smooth transitions and flowing choreography

• Strong use of technique—especially turns, leaps, and balance

Lyrical is a great choice for dancers who love performing with emotion and who enjoy songs with clear, heartfelt lyrics.

Watch our Lyrical Dance Classes playlist

Contemporary Dance: Creative, Grounded, and Inventive

Contemporary dance is more abstract and experimental. It blends elements of modern, jazz, and ballet, but allows more freedom for unique movement choices, floor work, and shapes.

You’ll often see:

• Unpredictable rhythms and movement patterns

• Floor work and off-center balances

• A mix of sharp, fluid, and sometimes grounded movement

Contemporary encourages dancers to think outside the box and explore their own style of movement—while still building a strong foundation of technique.

Watch our Contemporary Dance Classes playlist

Which Style Is Right for My Dancer?

Many dancers enjoy taking both lyrical and contemporary classes, as each helps develop different skills. Lyrical helps build emotional connection and control, while contemporary challenges dancers to be creative and versatile.

At Sharon’s Studio of Dance & Music, we teach each style separately so students can get a well-rounded experience—and discover what they love most about each.

Explore Lyrical and Contemporary Classes in Whippany

Whether your dancer wants to tell a story through graceful movement or explore bold, creative choreography, we have a class for them. Contact us to learn more about our lyrical and contemporary dance classes in Whippany, or view our class schedule and register online today!