Laban defines choreology as “the logic or science of circles.” Lest it be seen as a purely geometrical study, he explains that choreology is the “grammar and syntax of the language of movement, dealing not only with the outer form of movement but also with its mental and emotional content.”
Contemporary readings of choreology are more varied. For example, Benesh notation is also known as choreology. The Trinity Laban Conservatory in London offers a specialist diploma in Choreological Studies, billed as a contemporary development of Laban’s praxis.
In her book, looking at dances, Valerie Preston-Dunlop characterizes the choreological perspective as “looking at things from several points of view, the makers’, the dancers’, the viewers’.”
This comment suggests that choreology is an integrative study. What about the third branch choreosophy – choreutics? Find out more in the next blog.