Once you’ve taken the plunge into wanting to take some Ballroom Dancing Lessons – the first questions will be where, and how? There are several types of studios in the US. Most of them are “independent” and offer a variety of dances per a large accreditation organization. liveshowideas Or, the studio may be part of a franchise system such as Fred Astaire Dance Studio or Arthur Murray Dance studio. Some studios are very into competitions while others just focus on the social aspects of dance instruction – be it for an upcoming wedding, a social event or just for entertainment. Some studios even teach Wheel Chair Dancing!
Before you search out a Dance Studio, ask yourself some good soul searching questions: Why do you want to learn Ballroom dancing? Do you have a partner? Must you have a partner? Do you like to Compete? How much can you afford to spend per month? Does the studio offer group lessons as well as privates? How long have the teachers been there? Is the Owner active in the studio as an actual dancer/instructor? Must I wear Ballroom shoes?
Once you’ve asked and answered these questions of yourself, entertainement you are then ready to look at studios in your area. Don’t be afraid to travel a little since the studio choice will be very important.
Some questions for the Studio?
Ok, you’ve done your research and found several studios in your area (you’re lucky!) All of the above questions will help you determine what questions to ask the studio. Personally, I feel an “independent studio” will have more to offer and won’t be quite so expensive? Why? They aren’t tied into a National Franchise that takes a percentage of the receipts, can be very competition oriented, yet not “over the top” with that and usually are well established in the community.
If you are getting into Ballroom to enjoy the social aspects, several items are key. Do they offer group lessons? Even if you have a partner, topshows this is a great way to learn all the different steps and rhythms. Group lessons are much easier on the wallet! Plus, group lessons are more social by their very nature – you will switch dance partners throughout the lessons. If you are a single person, group lessons are a great way to learn about it, meet lots of great people and perhaps someone special!
A very important financial question is how they want to be paid! AVOID a studio that wants large amounts of money at a so called discount – especially from a teacher itself! There are too many horror stories from people all over going in for a lesson to find the studio has closed or the “teacher” is no longer with the studio and has your money!! If you want to pay lots of money up front, be sure it is with the STUDIO and not the teacher – course, still no guarantees on that either. Good studios will work very well with you on a daily, LiveMusicCity weekly or monthly basis. Just avoid any long term contracts! Do they have competition costume rentals available? Do they have dance shoes available? How large is their dance floor for “socials and parties”?
