These days we are bombarded with so many television dance shows promoting the idea that so called everyday people are doing wonders in what seems like a few episodes of dance lessons. Actually what we are witnessing are people (Stars, non-stars, dancers, non trained dancers) having the advantage of being taught by some incredibly talented experienced instructors and choreographers in a private setting. What is not always made clear is partly why these individuals are growing so quickly.
Having taught professionally for more than twenty years have given me insight I wish to share with you. Many of these individuals on TV have access to private one on one training with experienced and knowledgeable instructors. This one on e private training far outweigh what you could possibly get in a group class with regards to quality of instruction and personal attention. It’s this personal attention that allows students to grow at a rapid pace. Private session provides the instructor an opportunity to cater their teaching style to fit the student’s learning curve. Experience has shown me that a student grows anywhere from two to six times as fast in a private lesson versus a group lesson.
In addition to understanding the value of private lessons, the student needs to do some homework with regards to the instructor and studio policies. Before registering and paying for a long term financial commitment, take time to inquire about the instructor to some of his current students and past if at all possible.
Ask if you would be allowed to participate in one of the instructor’s class on a pay as you go system to determine if their style of teaching fits your personality. While most studios will not allow you to come in on a pay as you go system for all classes, however they might allow it for the 1st class as a trial run.
Sometimes it just comes down to matching your personality with the instructors teaching styles and not so much the instructors or students ability to teach and learn. Take time to also inquire about their cancellation policy or refund policy. Some instructors only teach at a studio on a need basis and don’t have any permanent home. This does not necessarily reflect badly on the instructor, however it’s important to know what your options are up front in the event the instructor leaves in the middle of your course or get ill.
Another option would be to inquire if the instructor/studio has an online instructional video service. . This would also give you a chance to learn in the privacy of your own home at a time that falls ideally within your schedule. I however should point out that on line instructional classes should be looked at as a supplement to learning in a classroom and not a replacement to having hands on learning experience in a classroom setting. There are far too many nuances of the dance that cannot be relayed through a video. If your more interested in learning footwork and partner patterns versus the proper feel of leading and following then by all means rely solely on an online instructional video.
This in no way is a knock on videos, I also provide online instructional videos services, however I do caution all my students not to fall prey to believing that a video can give you what a face to face instructional class can. Just as an example, there would be no way that instructional video could insure that you and your partner are providing the proper amount of pressure in the dance without connecting with each of you to feel that the proper amount of pressure is being given by each of you. This type of feedback and corrections is priceless.
Another factor to weigh is the makeup of the class. Your level of comfort is what’s more important when ensuring that you have the ideal learning environment. Please take a look at the group classes size, average age etc. Pending on your needs, this may make the decision for you. . One advantage of having a group class is the social benefits. After all, you most likely are taking classes so that you can increase your social fun factor. Just remember what our parents use to say, go play and have fun only after you’ve done your homework.
Sincerely,
Buster Adams of Latin Nation Dance Company (7/8/2009)
