You’re ready to learn to dance! But what is the best way for you to learn? It all depends on what you want from your lesson and how much you’re willing to invest.
PRIVATE:
Private lessons can be with one student and one teacher, or a couple and one teacher. With the one-on-one attention a student receives from private lessons, he/she will be able to advance and learn more quickly with instruction tailored specifically for that student. The industry standard for private lessons is a 45 minute instruction period. Prices range greatly, but because of the individualized attention, private lessons can be expensive.
COACHING:
Coaching lessons are one student with two teachers. The student will dance with the primary teacher, while the coach provides an outside perspective. A coaching lesson can also be arranged to receive choreography. Coaching lessons are valuable to dancers of any level. Typically, you will be paying for both your regular instructor to be on the coaching lesson and the coach’s fee.
GROUP:
Group classes are on a weekly basis, designed to teach students patterns, lead and follow, general technique and musicality. You’ll change partners in the class to further develop your partnering skills. Group lessons are an excellent supplement to private lessons to aid in review and practice before your next private. Group classes are popular with social dancers who are interested to learn more patterns and become competent dancing with a variety of partners. Group lessons are significantly less expensive then private lessons.
WORKSHOP:
Workshops are on a specific topic, usually once a month or every other month. Generally a bit longer than a group class to devote enough time to explore the specialized topic. Typically prior experience in the subject scheduled is required, but check the advertisement details for any prerequisites. Ask the organizer or instructor if a particular workshop is suitable for your level.
PRO-AM COMPETITION:
Meet your goals and challenge yourself by preparing for a dance competition. Experience the excitement and glamour of a national or regional event. By getting ready for a competition, you’ll be surprised to see how fast your dancing improves. Dancers are placed in a category according to their dance level, age and gender, so even the newest beginners can benefit from preparing for and participating in a dancesport competition.
What type of dance lessons will help you achieve your goals? Search out your local ballroom dance studio and enjoy the journey!
With her husband Erik, they are the founders of DanceSport Place and have a passion to help dancesport competitors reach their dancing goals.
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