The first one

I often get asked about my creative process and what I think about things. I decided that maybe I would try adding a blog post to my website. This series will specifically look at my creation process through dance and music. I currently have 2 commissions, 1 orchestral project, and 1 album project on the go for 2026-2027. All of the work started Jan 2026. 

Today I am entering the second studio time for my new Symphonic Dance (working title) I often am working on several projects at once and time management is key for me. I also an relentlessly thinking about my projects at any given time. During my non-studio time I am spending time reading relevant texts, watching videos/films around my idea, visiting with mentors/elders, and gathering this knowledge for studio time.

For this project I am starting with a blank page. I have some structural limitations such as, there must be hoops in it, ensemble instrumentation and stage space. I think the hardest start is when you have all the potentialities open. One has to just take 1 step forward in any direction and follow that to where it may end and that in itself can be a barrier of ones own making.

My own in studio process:
I set up camera for documentation purposes. These exercises are not "performing for the camera" but a tool for me to watch back and make observations a few days later away from the process. If I only have a short time, I try to make it to the idea improvisational portion of the studio practice.
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• Improvised movement to a random playlist - serves as a warm-up. I go through dance warm-ups, favourite moves, powwow dancing, floor work, etc.
• Improvised movement with hoop to a random playlist
• Writing/Reflection
• Improvised movement on an idea. This could be a situation, feeling, thought, quote, specific musical selection, etc. It has to be 1 idea. 
• Journal, writing exercises, reflecting on the movement and potential direction of the piece
• 2nd improvised idea session using research material/props/costume pieces
• Start building a section. This part is purposeful and a commitment to creation. This may or may not end up in the final piece but it helps me to commit to a final outcome. This portion will go through much exploration and edits in this process.
• Journal and wrap it up, stretch, cool down etc. 

I don't look at this guide as hard-enforcing structure. Often by step 3 I have a good idea of what I will be working on. If I don't, I follow all steps to the end. I will be sharing other exercises and tools I use in my process in later posts. 

- Virginia