Getting the Most Out of Your Dance Classes




By Kelsey Richardson


Taking a dance class can be both exciting and intimidating. There are numerous techniques a dancer can use in order to get the most benefit out of a dance class.

The ideas that the instructor simply wants you to succeed and that no one is there to judge you are the first things a dancer must accept when entering a dance class. 

With that in mind, you should absorb everything the instructor says. Whether the dance style is hip-hop or contemporary, as a student, you should try to mimic the instructor as closely as possible.
For example, if the instructor teaches certain moves hard-hitting and others smooth, your approach to the choreography should be the same as it was taught.

You should also keep the precision of the choreography in mind. Meaning, you should make sure that your body placement is correct. Each instructor has his or her own style, you should attempt to master each one. By mastering the style of each instructor, you become a more knowledgeable and diverse dancer.

Another aspect helpful to getting the most out of your dance class is the ability to internalize positive criticism and corrections. The only way you can improve is by accepting and fixing corrections. Corrections and criticism cause dancers to become more conscious of their bodies and master the precision and style of the choreography.

If an instructor is hard on their dancers and gives a lot of positive criticism and corrections, it usually means that the instructor is passionate about dance and sees great potential in his or her students. The result of criticism and correction is a well-rounded dancer with good habits and an exceptional understanding of what it takes to be a brilliant dancer.

Lastly, performance is a very important factor essential to getting the most out of your dance class.  Whether performing in a large class or a small group, a dancer should always keep the audience in mind. 

Dance is about expressing yourself through movement and inspiring others. 

Facial expressions are significant to the process of inspiration because it helps the audience feel enticed or involved in the spirit of the dance. Doing the dance FULL OUT and to the best of your ability is one of the most beneficial habits a dancer can form. Dancers should learn and practice full out because it shows effort, dedication, and a great work ethic. It is important to practice performance qualities in a class setting because the instructor can give you feedback and performing will begin to come naturally. 

If dance is your passion please take all of these tips into consideration when taking a dance class, but most importantly, have fun!

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