Parents have a very important role in dance education. They are the cheerleaders, chauffeurs, volunteers, devil’s advocates, and overall support system of dance studios and dancers everywhere. I hope there are parents out there who are finding this website useful. For all of you parents out there, I wanted to bring another website to your […]
parenting
Celebrate National Dance Week
National Dance Week is approaching ( April 25-May 4, 2008 ) and if you haven’t already, now is the time to decide how you’re going to celebrate! Obviously if you’re visiting this blog, you probably have an interest in dance and may already feel like you are immersed in its practice. However, there are lots […]
Fostering Artistry in Young or Beginning Dancers
I came across a new blog, Design Dance, that coincided with something I’ve recently been thinking about. The blog is for a dance school in Chicago that has a mission to offer classes that not only teach technique but also create an environment that encourages the young artist. Let me just quote a bit from […]
Finding Quality Dance Instruction – Middle Ground
I come from a small town and have taught in some small cities where dance studios struggle to maintain integrity and keep their business (or non-profit) afloat. Access to educated and experienced dance teachers is sometimes minimal. Below, I’ve listed some circumstances that occur in dance studios across the country. They are not absolute deal-breakers, […]
Finding Quality Dance Instruction – Deal-Breakers
When researching dance schools or studios, there are certain things I consider, instruction deal-makers. Here I will investigate the possibly more controversial deal-breakers: An instructor is consistently condescending and sarcastic, frequently uses put-downs or yelling to get results, or is insensitive to safety and health/weight issues. Classes appear out of control – little ones have […]
Finding Quality Dance Instruction – Deal-Makers
People don’t usually open a studio or attend a dance school if they don’t think it is a quality product being offered. However, in the dance world you’ll find some strong opinions about what is or is not quality dance instruction. I try very hard to see things from all angles. Therefore, I’d like to […]