Easy Guide To Learning Ballroom Dancing

By Author: Rio Spelling
Total Articles: 3
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Strictly Come Dancing fans are undoubtedly glued to the screen for the new season – from celebrity tantrums to the daunting judgement of exacting choreographer and discerning judge Craig Revel Horwood – there is lots of excitement in store.

While my previous guide series titled ‘Essential Guide to Ballroom Dancing’ looked at some of the styles involved in the genre, this guide will give you some key advice to help you get into the swing of things and learn ballroom dancing yourself. Part 1 dealt with some key facts for beginners, and Part 2 will explore how to take the plunge by finding the right class to attend.

Tips for Finding the Right Ballroom Dancing Class

With the renewed popularity of ballroom thanks to shows like Strictly Come Dancing, classes and events are popping up all over the country. Here are some key facts and considerations to help you find the most suitable instructor as well as get the most out of your classes.

· To find a listing of schools and classes in your area, use the phone directory or do a Google search i.e. "ballroom dancing [name of your city]”.

· ...
... If you live near a university, take a peek at their student clubs and activities. Many have ballroom dance teams that compete at an amateur rather than professional level, and many are more affordable as well as open to non-student members.

· Contact these listings and tell them what your goals are to see whether they will be a good fit. For example, do you want a class for casual beginners, or instruction as someone who intends to get serious? Some schools specialise in competitive dancing, while others simply give first-time dancers the experience and courage to brave the ballroom dance floor at their next wedding event.

· In terms of pricing, you will find they can vary significantly. Group classes will obviously be less pricey than private lessons, and specialised coaches with top credentials will also command a much higher fee. Making your choice will rely not only on your budget limitations, but the level of ballroom dancing that you’re interested in. No need to go for a famous instructor if your needs are more basic.

· It’s also a good idea to go along to the classes you’ve shortlisted to see for yourself what they feel like. Many dance studios will offer potential students a free or low-cost initial lesson that will allow you to decide whether they’re right for you.

· When at your initial class, try to talk to some of the students to find out how they’ve been getting along and what they think of the instructor. Also get a good idea of what people wear at a group class so that you can be sure of fitting in - do most people wear leotards and jazz pants at practice or do they wear specialised ballroom dancing shoes and long skirts?

· Each ballroom style has a specific tempo. Ask the instructor if you can buy a list of songs in the rhythm of the basics you’ll be working on – by counting the rhythm and getting familiar with it, you will find it easier for your feet and body movements to fall in line.

· Once you’ve made your choice as to which instructor best suits you, the most important thing is to practise and never skip classes – with consistent effort you will be surprised at how quickly you get the hang of things.

Conclusion

With these tips in mind, you will be well placed to find an instructor or group class that best suits your needs. While we cannot all have seemingly effortlessly perfect moves like professional choreographer and Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood, with a little practise and a lot of enthusiasm, everyone can master some impressive basics of ballroom dancing.

Author Bio: Rio Spelling is a choreography and dance enthusiast