Christine Baltes (1954-2018), a pioneer in the Giordano Technique, was a certified Pilates instructor, Master Gyrotonic Trainer, and the founder of Jazz Spectrum Dance Company in 1982. Ms. Baltes was deeply committed to education and held faculty positions at prestigious institutions such as the University of California Irvine, Chapman University, California State University Long Beach, and Orange Coast College, among others. In honor of her legacy, a scholarship fund was established in her name, which continues to support aspiring dancers in their pursuit of further education in jazz dance.
Throughout her career, Ms. Baltes created over 40 choreographic works, leaving a lasting impact on the dance world. Her legacy is now carried forward by Jazz Spectrum Dance Company, under the leadership of its current Artistic Director, Janell Burgess. Janell, who studied under Ms. Baltes for over 20 years, is deeply rooted in classical jazz techniques. She also holds certifications in ballet, yoga, and holistic healthcare, enriching her choreographic and movement artistry. Ms. Burgess’s choreographic and performance artistry has been showcased on film, television, and stages worldwide, including credits for multiple stage shows in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Macau, China, Disney & Travel Channels, Heineken, Universal Studios, and most recently,
Ms. Burgess retired from a 10-year choreographic and performance residency with KC & The Sunshine Band. As the founder, owner, and director of Spectrum Dance Center in Southern California, Ms. Burgess has created a vibrant community for over 30 movement educators, a chapter for the national honor society of dance through NDEO, and a rehearsal space for various professional dance companies, including Jazz Spectrum Dance Company. Spectrum Dance Center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of classical jazz dance. Jazz Spectrum Dance Company is inspired by the idea that the human body and music can merge into a unified expression. Just as jazz music is characterized by breaking traditional boundaries, JSDC’s work pushes the limits of the body while maintaining a high level of technique. As Ms. Baltes once said, “We find freedom in the form.” Jazz Spectrum Dance Company is grounded in the essence of humanity, embracing movement that transcends gender and believes that movement is a reflection of one’s inner self. The company’s mission is to empower others through historical preservation, diversity, and innovation.
Jazz Spectrum Dance Company’s performances have captivated audiences worldwide, earning them recognition for their precision and strength. Their stage work has been featured in numerous festivals, including the SoCal Dance Invitational, Inland Empire Dance Festival, Orange County Dance Festival, Rocky Mountain Choreography Festival, LA Dance Invitational, and Red Rock Dance Festival, among others. During the pandemic, Jazz Spectrum Dance Company adapted by creating a stage work to film piece titled “Chameleon,” which has toured over 10 film festivals, winning the awards for “Best Choreography” and “Best Original Score.” Ms. Baltes’s legacy continues to inspire and empower dancers and audiences alike.
Learn more at Jazz Spectrum’s Website
@thedanceratplay @jazzspectrumdancecompany @spectrumdancecenter @karli_padilla
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