FAQs
Should I pick Ballroom or Latin Dancing?
The short answer is - try both! They're both fun, challenging, and rewarding, and you really can't go wrong by doing either, which is why most social couples do both. There are some elements of each to consider when choosing which to take first:
The traditional ballroom dances: Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, and Quickstep are suitable for weddings, galas, and events with big bands.
The Latin dances: Cha Cha, Rumba, Jive, Samba, Bolero, East Coast Swing and Merengue tend to be a bit more “saucy”, upbeat dances, and suitable for the music you'd find on a cruise, or at a tropical resort.
Group classes or private lessons?
This is by far one of the most asked questions by people starting in Ballroom Dance. The easiest way to answer it is to look at the different variables:
Ballroom - Latin - Argentine Tango - Salsa - Swing
Partner dancing has never been more popular than it is today. People of all walks of life are taking the initiative to take dance lessons and discover it themselves.
As popular as ballroom and latin dancing has become, the term "partner dancing" does require you to register with a partner.
You don't need a partner when you take your own private lesson.
There are many Benefits Of Dancing For Yourself. Dance at your own pace. The pace of your instruction, Personal Satisfaction, and dance progress is completely up to you.
Dancing on your own allows you and your teacher to customize your learning.
If you've never taken dance classes before, the best place for you to start is a group class. It's an inexpensive way to find out what it's all about, in the company of classmates who are in the same boat as you. If you've taken some dance before, see if you can find an advanced group or semi-private class. If you can't, private lessons allow you to move at your own pace. Group classes are already in a social atmosphere, you will meet new people.
People have lots of reasons for wanting to take dance classes. What you hope to accomplish will help to inform what kind of class you take.
Group classes run when the studio offers them. Most Ballroom Studios are going to schedule their classes when most people can attend, but not everyone's schedule is the same. If you've got flexibility in your schedule, chances are you'll be able to attend one of the group classes that is being offered. If you've got only one hour a week that's free, your best bet might be to find a private instructor who's got that same hour available.
Wedding Dance: The pressure of having to do a "first dance" in front of family and friends is enough to send most couples straight to the nearest studio for help. If you want a first dance loosely (or strictly) choreographed to a particular song, go for private lessons. Your instructor will help you identify the proper dance for the song you have chosen, teach you the basic steps, and help you come up with a beginning, middle, and end. You should be able to accomplish this in 5 to 10 lessons.
What should I wear to my first dance class?
Wear something you feel comfortable in. Remember - you're going to be moving, so you want to wear something that facilitates movement rather than restricts it.
Dress for the temperature. For your first class, you might want to layer with a jacket or a sweater you can remove if you become too warm. Dances with a faster tempo are more likely to make your temperature rise.
What shoes should I wear to dance class?
For your first Ballroom or Latin Class, it's not necessary to buy new shoes. Chances are you can find something appropriate in your closet at home.
Women: Choosing something with a bit of a heel will help to put your weight on the ball of your foot. Use your judgement in choosing the right height of heel - even an inch will help to shift your weight.
A shoe with a closed toe takes the pressure off your partner if he accidentally steps forward with the wrong foot.
You're going to be stepping forward and backward, so avoid slip-on mules and backless shoes.
Men: Basically, your instructor will be happy if you don't wear running shoes (in the summer, that goes for sandals too). A pair of 'dress' shoes (basic oxford style laced shoes) is perfect.
How do I choose a good Studio? How do I choose a good Instructor?
New doesn't always mean risky, but reputation can help you make an informed decision. If a studio has been around for a while, see if you can read their client's feedback, or talk to someone who's currently taking lessons there. Anyone can buy advertising, but sometimes the most accurate indication is word of mouth.
Whether a studio is new or established, the qualifications of the instructors will help you determine the quality of instruction you will be receiving. How long have the instructors been there? How long have they been dancing?
We are certified by the
CDF, ISTD, DVIDA ® & CDTA.
Fellow Ballroom (Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz)
Fellow Latin (Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, Paso Doble, Jive)
Grand Master Argentine Tango
Head of Argentine Tango department Canadian Dance Federation (CDF)
National Argentine Tango Examiner for CDF & DVIDA®
Professional Judge
Dance Choreographers/Performers
Other Specialty Dances: Salsa, West Coast Swing, Merengue, Wedding Dance