Dance Class Etiquette
  Is there really such a thing and why?


  Why yes, there
is such a thing in nearly any dance class                  
  situation  you might engage in, and while there may be subtle  
  differences, the reasons for it are basically the same ---
respect  
  for other paying students and the professionalism of the person
  imparting their experience and knowledge to you.

  Here are just a few pointers to follow for a successful class  
  experience:

  • Don't just arrive "on time," arrive a minimum of 10 minutes early if
    possible. This gives you time to use the rest room, change clothes
    if necessary.

  • Once arrived, DO --
  • Begin your stretches/warm-up
  • Pay your teacher -- if that is the expectation

    DON'T -
  • Interrupt a class already in session
  • Remain in the teaching area chatting with friends forcing your
    teacher to compete with noise and distractions


  Remember that in most cases, you will get out of class what you put    
  into it; if you practice between classes, the teacher will be able to  
  progress your skill level at a faster pace -- teaching you the more
  complicated (and funner) moves.

  Always bring all your "tools" -- those being shoes, sandal socks, veils,  
  zils --
whatever  your teacher has asked you to be prepared to work  
  on/with. (Don't forget your water!)

   During class --
  • Ask for clarification/demonstration/help when needed. Chances are
    good that others are struggling with the same movements you are.
  • LISTEN and watch before trying
  • LISTEN and watch when the teacher is helping/correcting others;
    there may be something of value in it for you and your dancing

   Practice courtesy to others.
   This is so important. First of all, pay more attention to your OWN   
   execution than to others' and leave it to the teacher to do the  
   correcting.  Encouragement, however, is always welcomed and
   appropriate.

   Be conscious and conscientious of your "dance space"; try to  
   maintain relational distance as you travel.

   If you are experiencing
SUPREME difficulty  and frustration with a  
   movement and the teacher is not able to get you going in the right  
   direction
after considerable and sufficient effort, perhaps
   getting with her
after class is the most considerate course of action.
   As mentioned earlier, if you have a question about something...    
   chances are good someone else does too. Most teachers are happy
   to break things down for the entire classes'  benefit.  However,
   group class instruction is just that, and individuals in need of  
   
intensive or extensive personalized attention should seek private  
   instruction outside of group class time.


   Respect the dance floor and studio. This means no food or drink   
   other than water. This also means removing any garbage you bring in.


    A Few More Thoughts.............

    Don't bring your pets....

    Ask in advance before bringing small children that need tending....

    Don't expect perfection the first few times you try something new!!


    I want your learning experience with me to be meaningful,
    productive and fun. We have much to learn from each other!

    Happy Dancing!

    Sabylla