ARTICLES
Choosing a dance school for yourself or your child can be much easier if you follow a few simple tips.
One might think that choosing a dance school for yourself or your child is easy. If you live in a small town with limited choices, it is. On the other hand, if you live in an area where there are many dance school choices it may be a bit harder. But what should you look for? What makes one school better or worse than another? Here are a few tips to hopefully make it a bit easier to pick and choose.
First of all, ask around. Ask people you know for a recommendation as to which schools are the best. Chances are that you will be able to get some good feedback about area dance schools.
Determine what you focus is for you or your child. Are you looking at it as a form of exercise? Do you want to compete? Are you looking for technical expertise or do you simply want to explore a new activity for relaxation and pleasure? It is important to know what kind of dance experience you want when choosing a school, because you want one tailored to your needs.
What kind of classes do they have? Does the class selection and time schedule fit with your needs and abilities? Find out if they have different types of classes for your tastes. Some people prefer large group instruction while others prefer more individual attention. Atmosphere can be an important factor as well. Is the atmosphere very controlled or more relaxed? Does the instructor get to know the students and treat them well no matter what their skill level?
Get to know the instructors. Set up a short meeting with them to determine if their studio is suited to you. Watch a class or two and see how they interact with the other students and what their teaching methods are like. Find out what their credentials are and how long they have been teaching. Ask if they take classes to continue their education so that they can pass that knowledge onto their students? A great teacher can make or break your dance experience.
What about recitals, practice parties, performances, etc.? Dance is essentially a social art. So find out how you will be expressing the things you have learned in class. Performances serve many purposes, including building confidence and a sense of satisfaction with showing off the skills you have learned through all your hard work. If there are no performances of any kind, you might want to steer clear of that dance studio.
Last of all, it is vital that you think about price. Can your budget afford the lessons you want? How much are you willing to spend on dance instruction? Make sure it is a price you can live with so that you will keep going. Also, find out what "extras" you might be required to pay for down the line, such as costumes, shoes, trips, fundraising expectations, etc.
Most of all, find a dance school you are comfortable with. If you enjoy your lessons, they are worth every penny.
