This is an opinion piece. I won’t hide behind a pseudonym or pen name and pretend that the opinions belong to someone else. I also won’t apologize for the opinions. The opinions expressed below are done so very candidly for the intent of informing intermediate level dancers who may be interested in or intent upon…
Protocols and Expectations of Performing as a Pro, or, How To Avoid Stepping on Toes
Dance Class Do’s
When attending lessons, DO: practice often (at least 3 times per week) if you think you want to perform and you want to become competent and proficient (which is not the same as being good, or being artful, or being professional grade) take your own notes in class. Hand-outs are a luxury and are very…
What to Expect from a Bellydance Class
It is important to understand and accept that each teacher, of any dance form, will have his/her own set of priorities, methods, philosophies, techniques, and personalities that will strongly affect your learning, not just because of how effective, trained, and experienced that teacher might be, but also because of your needs, traits, and priorities as…
About Private Instruction
Private lessons are a wonderful, important, and effective way to hone your dancing skills. Nicola teaches private and semi-private lessons either in a studio space or your home. Share on Facebook Follow me…
About teachers
Anyone can rent studio space and organize a class. Some studio owners do not check out credentials on instructors coming from different dance traditions than they are familiar with. All teachers vary widely in their teaching and performance philsosphies, practice, methods, and styles. Each teacher does have her own unique ways of breaking down moves, teaching prop work,…
How to choose the best type of class for you
A teacher cannot be all things to all students. Nor can a single class. It is important to understand your own reasons for taking classes, in any dance form. Here are some suggestions to help you pick. Share on Facebook Follow me…
Q ~ I was at a workshop in Winnipeg. I saw brochures for another workshop, but I don’t know if I should go because I don’t know the dancer. . Advice?
Workshops are a lot of work (pardon the pun) to put on. If a host is bothering to do make the effort and front all the money required to bring in a guest artist, it’s almost always worth your time. Share on Facebook Follow me…
Q – There are so many classes advertised. How do I know who is a good teacher?
Read some of the articles I have posted. Check out some of the links. Call or email teachers and ask them lots of questions. Understand your reasons for taking the class and be clear about that with any potential teacher. Share on Facebook Follow me…
Q – I am changing to a new teacher. What level should I take?
Generally, it is always a good idea to talk to the new teacher beforehand and ask. She will probably want to know who you have taken with and for how long. Share on Facebook Follow me…
-
Recent Posts
-
Archives
-
Meta