Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A pioneering American modern dancer and choreographer: Martha Graham refers to an influential 20th-century artist who revolutionized modern dance. She is specifically known for developing a unique, expressive dance technique and for creating works characterized by emotional intensity, formal austerity, and technical precision.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The choreography was deeply influenced by the techniques of Martha Graham.
  • Martha Graham is often called the "mother of modern dance."
  • We studied a famous solo originally performed by Martha Graham herself.

Advanced Usage

• "Graham technique": Refers to the codified system of movement principles (involving contraction and release, spiral, and fall and recovery) developed by Martha Graham.

  • The dancer's training in the Graham technique was evident in her powerful core movements.

• To be described as "Graham-esque": Having qualities reminiscent of Martha Graham's style, such as dramatic intensity, angular shapes, or thematic seriousness.

  • The new piece, with its focus on internal conflict, felt distinctly Graham-esque.

Variants and Related Words

• Graham (adj): Used attributively to describe things related to her methods or style.

  • The company maintains a strong Graham repertoire.

• Martha Graham Dance Company (n): The professional dance company she founded in 1926, which continues to perform her works.

  • He received a contract to dance with the Martha Graham Dance Company.

Synonyms

• Modern dance pioneer: A general term for a groundbreaking figure in modern dance.
• Choreographer: A creator of dances (this is a broader category that includes her).

Related Phrases

• "A Dancer's World": The title of a seminal 1957 film featuring Martha Graham explaining her artistic philosophy.
• "Lamentation": The title of one of Martha Graham's most iconic solo works, performed in a tube of fabric.

Noun

1. United States dancer and choreographer whose work was noted for its austerity and technical rigor (1893-1991)