'She's Got the Complete Package!' Winning Insider Tips

How often have you heard figure skating commentators exclaim this? Dick Button and Peggy Fleming are often quoted with this saying but just what does it mean? Obviously, there's more to figure skating than just, well, skating. Top coaches and choreographers know that if everything doesn't quite come together, the skater's performance will suffer. So what are the elements required to put together a good exhibition or competitive program? Also how does your practicewear influence the quality of your training? Let's see what the experts have to say.

Every winning program starts with good music. Most skaters use classical ballets such as Swan Lake, Carmen or even movie scores. Who can forget Alexei Yagudin's Man in the Iron Mask from the 2002 Olympics? Skaters are in effect actors telling a story on the ice. However the music is first. No one makes up a dance and then tries to find some music to go along with it! The music is selected first and then a choreographer fills in the steps and elements to express it.

How do skaters find the right music to fit their program lengths? For example a short program is 2 1/2 minutes while a long is 4, (4 1/2 for men). Skaters often pour over hundreds of music selections with their coach. This of course is very time consuming and still may not give the skater the final result they are seeking. Enter the professional music editor. I spoke with perhaps the best in the business, Dave Hurwitz of Classics Today, http://www.classicstoday.com/skate/index... Hurwitz has over 25 years experience in collecting and cataloging classical music. His data base boasts thousands of selections, many quite obscure. He is also a professional music critic. "People don't realize that there are many beautiful pieces that are complete and will fit the program time required without any additional editing." This is what will give a seamless transition between tones, rhythms and moods. I've heard over twelve of his programs, some 2.5 minutes, some 4 and they were all gorgeous, fresh and inspiring. Everything from show tunes to the classics, all edited to perfection. Bring his music to your next practice and people will know you're there for business! For more information you can contact Hurwitz at dhurwitz@classicstoday.com or call (718) 384-5577.

What about choreography? I caught up with Robin Wagner who coached Sarah Hughes to her 2002 Olympic Gold Medal fame. It was pretty plain to see how. Wagner is herself a former competitive skater. She still skates beautifully and pours an immense amount of energy and emotion into her

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