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| | | 1.2) Methods of Learning
| (top) | | | | Whether you are a beginner learning the basic steps or an advanced dancer looking to refine your style and add some new moves, there are a number of options available to help you learn to dance. In choosing a method, consider your budget, location, schedule and how quickly you want to learn. No one method can be called the best as everyone has different learning styles. It’s up to you to decide which method is best for you.
Ideally, you should try a combination of learning methods as each method can enhance your dancing in different ways. Remember, no matter which method you choose, you will still need to practice to get the most out of it. The following is a list of the different options available and the benefits and drawbacks of each one. |
| | | | a) Progressive Classes
| (top) | | | | | Progressive classes are the most popular, and probably one of the best ways to learn. Progressive classes are group classes that last anywhere from 5 weeks to a full year, after which you may choose to progress to the next level. These classes are continuous which means that each week you build upon the steps and techniques you learned in previous weeks. These classes should teach all that is needed: dance steps, technique, and musicality.
The great thing about progressive classes is that you will have a core group of fellow students at your level that you will be able to dance and practice with, creating a mini dance community of people with the same passion for dance as yourself. The drawback is that it requires a commitment of time and missing classes may put you at a disadvantage. With people’s busy schedules it may be hard to commit to a specific time once or twice a week for a 5 week period or longer. |
| | | | b) Drop-In/Open Classes
| (top) | | | | | Many instructors teach drop-in (open) classes, which means anyone can join in at any lesson. This type of class is offered at many dance schools and also at certain nightclubs depending on the dance. The main advantage is that there is no long term commitment of time or money.
Since anyone can drop-in, the class level can vary a lot, and the instructor may not be able to accommodate everyone's level. If the class is in a club setting, the environment can be noisy and disruptive. Drop-in classes are usually inexpensive; classes offered at a club often include admission to the club allowing you to practice what you learn right away.
Drop-in classes are a great way to evaluate different instructors, to see who you like best, without having to sign up for a whole session. They can be a good complement to your organized classes. Experiment, enjoy the evening, and remember to practice what you learn. |
| | | | c) Private Classes
| (top) | | | | | Private instruction is one of the best ways to learn if you can afford it. Personal attention will let you know where your mistakes are and how to fix them. Your instructor will be able to pinpoint problems and focus specifically on the areas where you need improvement. This is especially critical for technique and leading and following in partner dances. However, private lessons can get expensive fast.
For partner dances, it's a great experience to be able to practice your dancing with someone who is a great leader and/or follower, however, your instructor will most likely be much more advanced than the people that you will end up dancing with at parties. So, it is up to you to practice and make sure your leading and following skills can adapt to all levels, and not rely on your partner being a teacher. |
| | | | d) Workshops
| (top) | | | | | Most workshops are geared towards intermediate or advanced dancers, but there are workshops available for beginner dancers as well. They are a great way to learn new moves and technique. A workshop can be a single 2-3 hour class focused on a specific dance topic or a series of intense workshops offered over 1 or 2 days (usually a weekend).
Workshops focus on specific topics and can cover a lot of material in a short amount of time. However, unlike organized classes, you will usually not cover these moves again with the instructors. Since this is a one-time deal, you may find yourself in a workshop class where the general dancing level is too low, or too high. Check with the instructors prior to the class to see whether the level is right for you.
Watch for special workshops from out-of-town instructors. These opportunities provide variety and often teach moves and techniques unique to that particular instructor’s experience, training, and sometimes location. |
| | | | e) Videos
| (top) | | | | | Many different instructors provide instruction on video for different levels and different dance styles. Some students respond well to video instruction; others prefer to learn by attending classes. This method is great for people who can’t go to classes because of their location and/or schedule. However, for partner dances, you may find it hard to learn the moves without someone to try them out with. Videos can be an affordable way to learn many new moves but be careful because you could get stuck with a $40 video that is inappropriate for your level, or where you only like one or two moves. |
| | | | f) Watch and Learn
| (top) | | | | | Some dancers can learn just by watching other dancers (in clubs or in music videos). Learning the fundamentals is really important once you reach higher levels of dancing and most dancers find themselves taking lessons sooner or later. Whether you are able to duplicate other’s steps or not, watching other dancers is highly recommended. It will hopefully provide inspiration for your dancing, and keep you motivated to learn more. Just beware you don't pick up another dancer's bad habits! |
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