Alteraciones are rebotes which change direction after the co-contraction. Alterations are used to create energetic changes of direction, and acceleration. They are a wonderful addition to musicality.
- To mark an alteracion we create a strong co-contraction in the rebote’s receiving leg. Flexion in the receiving leg keeps the revel’s free leg extended and gives the mark the power to pivot.
- The revel needs to match the co-contraction, otherwise she will just take an ordinary step.
To maximize the elasticity, we set up alteracions in situations that increase torsion. To increase torsion, we make the first or second part of the rebound (or both!) in an unfamiliar direction or combination of feet. In fact, the most technical definition of an alteracion is two steps in which the revel both [1] changes between open and closed sides of the embrace and [2] breaks the front-side-back-side pattern. (An alteracion step should be front-front, side-side, back-back, front-back, or back-front.) However, this definition does not ensure an elastic result. So from a technical perspective, mastering a pivot during co-contraction is more important.
To create the energetic sensation of an alteracion, you need a rebote that pivots. Once you have mastered that sensation you can play alteracion games to find more torsion.
