How to Choose a Dance Studio
Factors to Consider for Beginner Dancers or Those Changing Locations
Jan 4, 2009
Before you begin to look at dance studio options, you must ask yourself one important question: Why do you want to take dance classes? There are a few possible answers to this question.
- Fun, recreation, or enjoyment
- Exercise, health benefits
- Technique, competition, preparing for a professional dance career
By understanding what you want to gain from taking dance classes, you will be able to determine what type of studio you need. It is important to match a studio's philosophy with your intended goals for dance.
When you are "shopping" for a dance studio, there are a few questions that you should ask of the studio owner or teacher:
- What is the basic philosophy of the studio?This is the most important question, and should be asked first. If you know the goals of the studio for their students, you will know whether or not they fit into your basic aspirations. For example, if you plan to train for a professional or competitive dance career, you would want to attend a studio that participates in competitions and focuses on proper technical training.
- What classes and services are available?You should ask about the kinds of classes offered, as well as the typical length of training at each level. It is good to know if there are specialized or private classes offered, in case you decide to train in a specific area, or if you need additional assistance. In addition to the regular classes offered, ask about the community or competitive activities the studio participates in, and the participation level expected of the students.
- What is the level of training or dance history of the teachers?This is a question that most studio owners will expect, and they should be able to offer you a bio on each teacher. It is important to remember that a good dancer does not necessarily make a good teacher; their teaching experience is just as important as their professional performing experience. You may also want to ask if the teachers are expected to continue their dance training at conventions or studio classes. If you plan to participate in competitions, the teachers should also have choreography experience, and the studio owner can provide a brief competitive history of the studio.
- What are the fees involved in the dance classes?The studio owner should be able to provide costs for the dance classes you are planning to take. There will be a different fee depending on how many classes per week or month you would like to participate in. There may also be fees associated with competitions, recitals, or special events. Many studios will offer fund raising opportunities to help with the costs, and the studio owner can provide this information for you. You may also want to ask about any special deals being offered for multiple-student families or registering at a certain time of year.
Studio websites can be a great source of information, and may answer all of these questions for you. It is still a good idea to visit the studios that you are interested in to speak with the studio owners and teachers directly and to see the studio environment in person.
Once your questions have been answered, it is a good idea to ask if you can observe a class. Work with the studio owner and teachers to sit in for a class that is close to your age and ability level. While in the class, observe the atmosphere of the studio. Are the students friendly with one another? Do they seem comfortable with the teacher? Does the class size and level of training meet your needs?
You may also want to get the opinions of students and/or parents at the studio. Are they happy with the workings of the studio? Do they feel they get their money's worth with the classes they are taking? Remember that not everyone can be pleased all of the time; take each comment at face value, and use the opinions you receive in conjunction with the information from the studio owner and your class observation.
Ultimately, you must choose the studio where you feel most comfortable and where your needs (from the first question asked above) are being met.
