340 Park Street
Brockville, ON
613-342-1816
 
 
 
   
 

Social Dancing FAQ
 

I am new to social dancing. What do I need to know?

Q. Do I need experience to take lessons?

No. All dancers start as newcomers. The more you practice through attending dances and taking lessons, the better you will become.
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Q. Do I need a partner to take lessons?

No. You will take your private lessons with an instructor and your group lessons with a group of people of similar skill level.
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Q. How do I begin learning?

New students are all scheduled for an introductory lesson with an instructor.  This practice is recommended for the experienced dancer as well.  The instructor will get you acquainted with the studio\'s system of teaching.  This will also give your instructor the opportunity to evaluate your strong and weak areas, and if you already dance, determine your current level of expertise.  This introductory lesson also allows the instructor to personalize your lesson and guide you to the proper course of instruction to help you achieve your dance goal.
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Q. What is social dancing?

Social dancing is an all-encompassing term that includes ballroom, Latin, country, and swing.  Within a social dancing program, you are free to learn any style (or styles) that piques your interest.
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Q. How much do social dancing lessons cost?

Beginning lessons are available to suit any budget. Group lessons are the most inexpensive method to learning, though many people prefer the privacy and one-on-one attention that only private lessons offer. We also recommend attending as many dances as possible to regularly execute figures you learn in lessons.  This will expedite your learning process.  Please speak to us at the front desk and we will be happy to answer your questions related to tuition.
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What are the different types of instruction?

Q. How do private lessons work?

Private instruction is one-on-one learning.  Whether you are taking your lessons as a single or as a couple, your instructor will be there with you for as long as you are taking lessons.  Private instruction allows you the freedom to move at your own pace because the lessons are tailored by the instructor to suit the learning needs of the student.  These are the lessons that will not only teach you dance patterns, but provide you with and develop all of the necessary skills to make you an excellent dancer.  Private lessons generally cover several dances during the lesson time.
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Q. What are group classes?

Group instruction primarily focuses on your dancing patterns, and involve multiple people under the direction of one instructor. These classes focus on one or two dances, and introduce you to various step patterns. Group classes generally run for a series of weeks while teaching you the patterns offered at a certain level.  A group class may be a little overwhelming for a new dancer with no dance experience.  If you are a newcomer who will learn to dance exclusively through group lessons, we encourage you to switch partners as often as possible during your group classes, and attend as many social dances as possible. 
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Q. What is the most effective way to learn to dance?

Taking lessons at the Broadway Dance Academy, of course! Ideally, a combination of both private and group instruction is the best choice. Since group instruction primarily deals with patterns, the private lessons become necessary to develop the proper skills of partnership. In general, group classes alone work well for people with partners, and with a fairly standard time schedule. Private instruction alone is great for individuals or couples who have specific needs and time constraints. Private lessons also allow the instructor to personalize your lesson and proceed at a pace that is comfortable for you.  Most importantly:  practice every night, even if it is just for a few minutes in your kitchen!
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OK. I am convinced to take lessons. Are there specific things that I should know?

Q. How often should I take a lesson?

Because you are new to dancing, the frequency of your initial lessons is key to your success.  When you first begin, we recommend a MINIMUM of two lessons per week.  This will help you to retain the information more easily and you will make better progress as a result.  Please note that if your schedule does allow for two lessons per week, it does not mean that you will not be able to learn to dance; it just may take a little longer.  Your instructor will plan a program that matches the time that you are able to commit to it.
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Q. How do I practice my dancing?

The studio will provide you with the opportunity to practice.  Regularly scheduled practice sessions are an important part of your learning.  Practice sessions give you the chance to to dance in a supervised "nightclub" atmosphere.  This supervised environment will help you to recognize one dance from another, to dance with multiple partners, and learn to maneuver on a crowded dance floor.  You needn\'t wait until you think you are good enough to attend a practice session.  Going to these session right away will help you to build your confidence and become better faster.
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Q. Do I wear anything special for my lessons?

Everyday attire is appropriate for dancing, although it is recommended that you wear clothing that will give you freedom of movement. Many women find loose slacks or a full skirt to be most comfortable. Men find sport shirts or polos and loose slacks the most comfortable. Jeans and sweat clothes are not recommended.
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Q. What are the right shoes to wear?

First, it is important to note that outside footwear is not allowed in our dance studios, so you must bring shoes with you that you can change into.  Shoes with a thin, flexible sole, along with socks, are best for men. Women should wear a heel (but not a spike heel), since that is the normal shoe of choice when dressing up; nylons are also recommended.  Walking shoes with thick soles or rubber soles, sneakers or athletic shoes are not recommended for dancing. Although comfortable, this footwear will impede your ability to use your feet properly for dancing, and may even encourage injury. Special footwear designed for dancing in a variety of styles is available to you through the Boutique located at the studio. The Boutique also supplies dance music to help you practice at home.
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Q. What if I need to cancel a lesson?

The studio realizes that there may be occasions when your scheduled appointment may not be convenient.  We can change your appointment to a more appropriate time; however, we do ask that you provide the studio with 24 hours\' notice when rescheduling.  This allows your instructor to accommodate another student in your original time slot.
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