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Jamila Format Overview
Jamila Salimpour Belly Dance
The Jamila (JSBD) format
Jamila Salimpour is the originator of tribal belly dance in America. In 1949, Jamila began teaching her unique method which included detailed breakdowns and standard terminology for her movements (Turkish Drop, Maya, Basic Egyptian, etc.) as well as extensive finger cymbal training. Her teaching influence is widespread.
Jamila was the first dancer to solidify belly dance terminology and create a format. Her format, first taught in 1949, is still valid today. In the 1970’s the format was documented in The Danse Orientale Manual. Later, in the 80’s, most of the format was documented in a VHS series (later converted to DVD) taught by Suhaila.
Finger Cymbal Training
No matter what a dancer wears or what style she dances, when she puts on finger cymbals. . . she is identified as a belly dancer. Jamila developed her finger cymbal rhythms and teaching method simultaneously with her dance movements. . . . both are integral parts of her format. Simple and complicated patterns are explained in an easy to understand way, and students are taught finger cymbal work in the very first class. Understanding finger cymbal patterns also helps a dancer learn musical timing, rhythms, layering, etc.
Belly Dance History
If you want to learn about the beginnings of belly dance in America, then Jamila’s format is your source for that knowledge. Her accumulated terminology is widespread throughout the country, affecting nearly every belly dancer in this country. But don’t make the mistake of thinking this format is easy because it has existed for over fifty years. When danced correctly, this format takes stamina and skill; it is a rewardingly rich and earthy format that is full of interesting moves and timings. Tribal dancers, cabaret dancers, fusion dancers, etc. can find much useful training and inspiration from this format.
Training for All Styles of Belly Dancers
Many of today’s well known tribal dancers got their beginning inspirations from Jamila’s format; she was the creator and director of Bal Anat, the first tribal troupe. But, this format is not just for tribal dancers! The format is completely valid and applicable to all belly dance styles. For instance, Suhaila’s early belly dance training was her mother’s format, and you can still see that influence in Suhaila’s dancing today. Members of Jamila’s classes and Bal Anat troupe would dance tribal during the day, and then dance the same movements at night in the cabaret clubs.
