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How to choose a dance studio

I began dancing when I was 3, studied seriously, and thought I’d end up on Broadway, until I got injured and reluctantly went to college. It all worked out though. I ended up with a Ph.D. and a wonderful career. Still, the lessons I learned in the dance studio held me in good stead throughout my life and provided the foundation for a strong work ethic, endurance, frustration tolerance and a healthy level of competitiveness. Dance training is fantastic—if you choose wisely.

 

Good chemistry is crucial. This piece discusses finding the right studio for your child, but the same basic tenets will hold true if you're shopping for yourself too. Know your child’s temperament and what inspires them. All children need encouragement and support. Some will thrive in a more demanding environment that is highly structured and emphasizes rigorous training and discipline. Others need to be sought out and actively encouraged to take risks. They may be shy and can wilt under a critical eye. They need a setting that is more nurturing and relaxed.

 

Remember- it’s not what YOU want, but what your child’s temperament dictates that ought to rule. A bad fit can leave lasting wounds. My older sister still rubs the emotional scar of a cruel teacher 40 years ago who criticized and embarrassed her. Children’s bodies go through many stages and the pre-pubescent phase can be embarrassing and highly stressful. Children need to feel good about their bodies and a studio that stresses weight and adheres to the traditional ballerina ideal will not be appropriate for many students. Help assess whether your child is looking for a fun way to exercise and express themselves musically and lyrically, or whether they are interested in a serious study of dance as a potential career. Is your child interested in dance lessons to spend time with a friend (Shhh....be reminded that there's a no-talking rule in class), or do they have a different goal in mind?

 

First, decide what genre of dance your child wants to learn.  The DC area has an enormous number of outstanding studios teaching everything from hip hop to classical ballet.  This piece, regrettably, can only offer a glimpse of what is available and is by no means exhaustive. A typical studio offers options include tap, jazz, modern, and ballet. Tappers with Attitude in Silver Spring has in international reputation and accepts students as young as three.  Their style is more acoustic (think Savion Glover) than Broadway. Studios such as The School of Theatrical Dance in Great Falls offer adult, teen and youth tap classes as well as training in classical ballet (follows the Royal Academy of Dance curriculum), modern (Martha Graham) and jazz. Ask about the curriculum. Dance schools should have a well defined program. This enables your child to “speak the language” if they move to a new studio or relocate. It also insures some measure of quality control.

 

 Schools such as the Washington School of Ballet (and Maryland Youth Ballet) also require a significant commitment and level of dedication, as well as auditions for acceptance, and students often vie for roles in The Washington Ballet's annual Nutcracker performance.

 

 Find out what the dance directors credentials are. Did he/she graduate from an accredited university as a dance major? Did they dance with a professional company? Are they certified through an organization such as Dance Masters of America and/or Dance Educators of America? Find out how long they have been teaching. How many instructors are there, and who would be teaching your child’s class? Ask if you can observe a class? Can you “try before you buy”? Find out what performance opportunities there will be. Is the floor a “sprung floor” (a neoprene-like cushioning between layers of wood) to prevent injuries such as shin splints? Try to see one of their performances or recitals. Is there a dance company associated with the school?

 

Discuss fees frankly and thoroughly. Many studios do not offer refunds once the semester has begun., and discounts are usually offered for paying a semesters' tuition upfront. Lessons can range from $14-$25 per lesson, though there are generally discounts for taking two or more classes a week. Most will have strict policies about the number of classes that can be missed before affecting inclusion in the recital or annual show. Ask if missed classes can be “made up.” Inquire about recital and/or costume fees. Pointe shoes can run $50 a pair, and even moderately serious dancers can pirouette through six pairs a year, or more. Ballet classes have strict rules governing appropriate attire and this cost should be factored into your decision making. Be honest about your child’s other commitments when deciding whether to participate in the recital or taking on more than one class.

 

Ultimately, dance lessons can be one of the most joyful (and athletic!) activities your child participates in. Just be sure to ask the right questions. Check back soon for my next piece which will include interviews with some local professional, male dancers, as well as more information on different  dance styles.

For more info: Visit the following sites for excellent information of qualifications and training for dance teachers. Dance Educators of America at http://www.deadance.com/, and Dance Masters of America, at http://www.dma-national.org/