FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Many of the commonly asked questions are addressed here. If you have additional questions, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.

How many lessons do I need? It depends upon the level of skills you want to attain and how fast you learn. You need a minimum of 5 lessons to master the basics for a single dance, or 3 interrelated dances

What dances do I need to learn? The more dances the better, but start out with Foxtrot, Waltz, Swing, Rumba for social ballroom dancing; Swing and Nightclub for parties and other night spots.  These are common and interrelated, so it is easy to learn them all at once.

Is it best to learn one dance well, rather than several dances? Learning only one dance does not provide the best dance training. A variety of dances will develop good dance skills and accelerate your progress.

Should I take group classes? Group classes are good exposure to dance steps and patterns, but dancing with other beginners is limiting, and the instructor is unable to correct individual bad habits.  However, if group classes are taken along with private coaching, they are beneficial for "good" practice time, learning additional steps, and meeting new people.

What if I have two left feet and no rhythm? Anyone can learn to use the right foot when given the proper instruction, and rhythm is a learned skill just like dance steps.

Do I need to have natural rhythm? Rhythm can be learned by listening and practicing. Most people are not "natural" and need training in this area.

Should I start out with group lessons first and then take private lessons later on? The very beginning of your training is the most important and becomes the foundation which you draw upon. Students tend to develop bad habits without individual correction. If private training is started later, there is much more work and time involved to correct bad habits and become a good dancer. It is best to do both and go out to practice your steps at different clubs and functions.

What is the difference between group and private lessons? Group class is designed to stimulate interest, give an overview of steps, and provide partners who are also learning. Private lessons are one-on-one coaching with an instructor to learn leading and following skills, technique, style, and the feeling of dance.

What do I wear? For lessons, wear casual, comfortable, cool clothing that is easy to move in. You will want to dress nice or somewhat casual when going out dancing, but not formal, unless it is a special event.

What type of shoes do I need? Ballroom closed toe shoes, latin open toe sandals, or practice shoes are the best. However, if you are just beginning you may use shoes that tie or buckle rather than slip one. Avoid rubber soles, hard leather, sandals, and open back shoes.

Do I need a partner? No. The majority of dancers are single. Even most couples dance with everyone to be social and practice leading and following skills. All classes have rotation so everyone is able to dance. Private training is most beneficial when dancing with the instructor.

What is the difference between "American" and "International" styles? American is social ballroom, open style, and easier to learn. International style is English based and takes more training and dedication. It is designed for the serious competitor.

What type of lessons do I need? To be a good dancer, you need private training in conjunction with group classes and practice sessions.

How many lessons should I take per week? A minimum of one lesson per week is recommended. Many students take more classes and private training in the beginning to enable them to be out dancing sooner and find good partners. Others may choose a slower pace. In any case, keep your goal in mind, be determined, and be consistent.

How often should I practice? Practice does not make "perfect", but it does make "permanent".  Therefore, in the early stages of your training, you don't want to practice on your own too much in between classes. Your best practice time is during class and coaching.  The longer you have been training, teh more you will practice correctly and perfect your skills. It is best to go out dancing at least once per week. You should also take notes to review before your next session.

How can I practice without a partner? The leader should review steps, footwork, and patterns before dancing with a partner. Mental preparedness is essential! Also, body memory is developed when practicing footwork and rhythm. Followers should not provide back leading help.  This is not their part and will cause the leader to become distracted and dependent. They should practice familiar steps while focusing on correct rhythm, posture, balance, style and neat footwork, which will result in a good responsive feeling.

Should I skip my lesson since I did not practice? Do not be concerned if this happens in the beginning when you are first learning because it is more difficult and you are not going out dancing yet. Skipping lessons will further delay your progress. If you have not practiced in one week, you probably will not practice in two weeks. Practicing will become natural after you begin to dance out regularly.