Selecting group classes is important, especially for beginners. Group sessions can be progressive, where the material builds from week to week, and purchased as a set (typically meeting once a week for a month) or “drop-ins,” where classes are taken and paid for one at a time.
How do you select the best group class for you?
Take classes appropriate to your level.
If you are new to dancing, your first classes should focus on the most basic moves and technique. More experienced dancers may describe a class as ‘easy.’ This may be true for them. It depends on their dance experience and abilities.
Talk with your private instructor or the group class teacher to confirm the class is appropriate to your level.
It can be valuable to repeat classes that you have already taken even as you are taking more advanced classes
What to look for in a class.
Is the instructor clear, patient, supportive and pleasant?
Do most of the students appear to grasp the material? Are they smiling and relaxed?
Does the instructor limit the number of basic steps or patterns – ideally no more than two or three sequences or “moves” per class?
Is material reviewed at the end of class? Does the instructor encourage questions?
What is the ratio of leaders to followers? Is the class “balanced” for optimum learning?
How often are partners “rotated”? A primary advantage of group classes is the opportunity to test leading and following skills with different dancers. If frequent partner rotation is overlooked, the class may not meet your needs.
Group classes can be among the most inspiring, upbeat social environments. This is where dancers make new friends, or perhaps find a practice partner at their own level. When students regularly attend classes – and consistently practice what they learn between classes – their new skills are certain to advance more rapidly.
NOBODY PUTS BABY IN THE CORNER!
Are you ready to make a move?