How long will it take me to learn how to dance?
Of course progress in dancing is related to individual ability and desire, with desire being the most influential factor in answering that question.
If you are looking to learn a dance for your wedding it may take from a month up to several months while if your interest is more serious, such as competing in dance, learning can take from several months to several years.
The key to speed in learning is repetition. The more you repeat something, the faster your body will learn it and the better it will hold on to it. To be a great dancer one would never stop learning but continue his or her training thoughout his or her life. It just depends on what your desired outcome is.
How much do lessons cost?
Group lessons and private lessons differ in cost and results. To get the most out of learning to dance it is recommended that one take (at least) one private lesson and (at least) one group class per week, with one practice session of at least an hour per week as well. Private lessons range from $60-$90 per lesson, while group classes can range from $10-$12 per class. Practice is, of course, free!
Using the above system we have seen individuals who have never danced before in their lives become accomplished dancers within 18 months.
Do I need a partner?
No, you do not need a partner to learn how to partner dance! In a private lesson your instructor becomes your partner. In a group class the instructor will rotate partners so you will always have someone to dance with. Of course over time many people who start without a partner do find one and if so that can be incorporated right in to your lessons. Most people come to us as individuals so if you are worried about not having a partner, don’t! That won’t stop you from learning.
If I want to take lessons for my wedding, what do I need to do before I come to class?
You must consider several things if you are learning to dance for a special event such as a wedding:
Ladies, please consider your gown: does it have sleeves that would prevent you from reaching your hand over your head? Does it have a long train that you might step on when bustled? Does it in any way prevent easy movement? Think about the shoes you’ll be wearing and wear similar ones to your dance lessons.
Gentlemen, does your tuxedo jacket’s shoulders lift up when you lift your arms into a dancing position? Many do and if so should not be worn while dancing. Instead, wear your shirt and vest. Consider the shoes you’ll be wearing. You should wear the same type of shoes to your dance lesson.
For both the bride and groom:
What are the dimensions of your dance floor? Bring them to the lesson and that way your instructor will know whether or not you can do that lofty and large Waltz you’ve been wanting to.
What surface will you be dancing on? Is it safe for the shoes and clothing you will be wearing?
Finally, choose a piece of music before you go to your first lesson. It will be much easier for the instructor to know what dance to teach you. Think about what style of dance you would like and how dramatic (or not!) you would like it to be. Communicate these things to the instructor right away and you will be more likely to get what you’ve envisioned.
Where can I go to find a dance partner?
Many beginning dancers will find a partner at social dance events, parties, group classes, etc. However if you are actively looking for a partner there are many other places you can look. There are online directories where you can look at other people looking for partners and you can also list yourself. One great website that does this is BallroomDancers.com.
For more answers to any questions you have, just call us at 503.236.8160!
