What you look for in a studio

[guille_bdancer]

As I keep exploring the dance scene here in Los Angeles, I've noticed that everyone has different ways of running their business and each studio has their own approach in regards to teaching, socials, etc.

I was wondering what do you guys think about the studio(s) where you dance? What do you expect out of it, what are your likes and dislikes? What do you guys consider a priority when it comes to choosing a studio? I would appreciate comments not only from the locals (US residents) but also if you're abroad... let me know.

[SPratt74]

Oh this is easy for me. When I first started out I didn't know anything, but now I know exactly what I want! Anyways, decide what your goal is if you want to social dance or compete etc., because to me the next step is deciding who you want to teach you. For instance, I know that I want qualified instructors, and I mean those that have licenses, and have a proven record, and a long background of teaching (even if I have to travel to get it I will, but thankfully I don't have to). I don't care if they compete and have won prizes. Would you want someone that is just starting out to teach you even if they have said that they have competed, they might have only competed once then what? What happens if they have taught you all that they know? You have to go somewhere else anyways right? Just cause they say that they have won something does not mean that they are qualified to teach you.

I also don't care if they hold socials or not or what the deal is. I just care about the quality of instruction. I have dealt with those that don't have anything, and it's nothing but a disappointment (but it depends on what your goal is in my opinion). And I don't want instructors that have been teaching for years and not have anything to show for it either. I want my instructors to be able to teach me from the get and go what I need to know and to not beat around the bush. (Trust me if you spend over a couple thousand dollars worth of nothing and you have to start all over again (depending on what your goal is), then you will know what I'm talking about.)

However, if I do want something else like socials, I can always attend another studio for fun. I won't take them seriously though, because I'm just there to have a good time. So, it really depends on what you are wanting from a studio. If you want to dance seriously, then look at the quality of instruction. If you want to dance socially, then focus on what they offer instead of how they teach, because from what I have found out... there is a difference. ;)

[SPratt74]

Oh and I wanted to add too, make sure that once you get your goal figured out, speak up and say that is what you want. If they can't offer you that service (i.e. if they only teach Ballroom and you wanted to learn Latin) then don't waste your time learning from them unless you want to learn from them socially. Go and find another studio that does give you what you want. It is your money first and foremost, and no one can tell you how to spend it, and no one can make you feel guilty for going somewhere else, and it doesn't matter if you've been there a week or a month or a year etc. You decide what you want to do, and don't be shy about doing it either. ;)

[mamboqueen]

because to me the next step is deciding who you want to teach you.

I agree with this. I think, after having have been taught by a few teachers at different studios, my inclination would be to find the teacher that is right for me rather than the studio that is right for me. The only thing that might steer me away is perhaps pricing, although if I have the *right* teacher, I'll rationalize the price.

[fascination]

ditto

[Gypsy Wishing]

Studios change and I change so I think its normal to do the tour.
I`m presently involved in a showcase so the level of choreography is the main factor. The one before this, it was the level of enthusiasm, at another time it was the social level. Next it might be something I hven`t even thought of.

[SPratt74]

I agree with this. I think, after having have been taught by a few teachers at different studios, my inclination would be to find the teacher that is right for me rather than the studio that is right for me. The only thing that might steer me away is perhaps pricing, although if I have the *right* teacher, I'll rationalize the price.

Oh that's true. I forgot to mention pricing. I think that our city is pretty cheap when it comes to pricing even with our high level instructors. The cheapest I have found so far is $25 if you want a private (for a beginning social teacher), while the most expensive is $50 unless you take from a traveling coach that might come to the area (and they have) they certainly cost more. But I think too though it's hard to know this stuff starting out, and who isn't shy about asking questions unless you know exactly what to ask and if you've done the research. Sometimes you have to find stuff out as you go along like what happened in my case. So, the OP in my opinion is smart to ask this stuff in advance. ;)

[fascination]

yea...it really is dependent upon your goals...now that I am studio-less(violins please)...I have a teacher(we are just nomads, with a long-term plan), what I want from a studio would be some men with intermediate skills who will ask me to dance at socials, who will show up at silver classes, and who might want to practice with me...if I could find that...I'd buy a package in a heartbeat

[bullet]

Well, I agree with all the posts above.
I am from Bulgaria, and here, we have very few, real, dance studios. Most of the dancesport clubs practise in school qyms. I am a happy man, because my club possesses a dance studio with good floor and mirrors and everything you need to feel the incredible atmosphere, to feel the magic of dancing.

If we speak about the teachers (instructors), I want to say that for me is not very important whether my theacher was a champion or not. But it is important my teacher to be a great teacher. I think so, because I know a lot of great competitors in diferent sports, who aren't good teachers.

I forgot to write that I am a competitor. I started dancing, and competing before 3 years. I have been severeal times to, so called social dances, but dancesport is much more interesting for me.

[PyroStock]

But it is important my theacher to be a great teacher. I think so, because I know a lot of great competitors in diferent sports, who aren't good teachers.

Agreed. I was recommended to a champ and although she was a great dancer/follower she wasn't a good teacher. At one point she even said, "Do it like that," as she pointed to another guy doing a completely different step. Even if he was doing the same step, I don't need to pay her to watch others when videos can do that.

Likewise, just because a teacher has a license doesn't mean they're a good teacher.

I do really like a teacher spending a few seconds to help every individual during a group class so even if I already know the steps I hear what I need to focus on the most. I do not like a teacher who slows down the entire class the entire time all for the slowest student... especially in a silver or higher class.

[liangjz]

What I tell other people is that(assuming they have no idea which instructor they want) they should take a look at the students at the given studios over a period of several days and choose the studio that seems to have the students that are going in the direction they want to go.

I agree with mamboqueen. Even studios with superb instructors still have some that are a better fit and some that are not as good of a fit. It's really important to find the one or few instructors rather than think of the studio as a whole.

A nice bonus is if they have good group classes. This is, in my experience, extremely rare, but it can happen. This really needs the combination of good instructor and good classmates. Even a great instructor will have trouble teaching a gold syllabus class if most of the class doesn't grasp the silver syllabus.

Sadly, the classes I like seem to happen when the instructor won't hold the class back for the slower students. That's not so great for the slower students(though they seem to keep coming back), but it's good for me...:)

[SPratt74]

Likewise, just because a teacher has a license doesn't mean they're a good teacher.



One factor does depend on their teaching ability and if you two will get along. However, a more experienced teacher (with a license etc.) is better worth your money in the long haul than someone that isn't in my opinion. I've been down both roads, and to me I would rather be with someone that knows what they are doing, and to me someone that has taken their time to get that license is really paying attention to what they are doing, and is doing what they can to get to the top.

But you do make a good point. You have to like the teacher as well no matter what level they are at. But I am warning everyone, someone with only a few years of nothing even a lot of years of nothing (even if they have won something and are the most likable person, could be that they are just a good sales person though) won't be worth it in my opinion. I've been down that route, and it's not fun having to start all over again in a new direction, because you do feel as though you have wasted your money.

And to me I'd put up with someone that tells me how it is instead of what I think I want to know than someone that likes to talk a bit of B.S. during our lessons (been there done that). But that's just me though. I take dancing seriously, and I want to know the answers. I want to be told how it is. I'll put up with everything else if I know they can get me to reach my goal, and thankfully I have found that. ;)

[Twilight_Elena]

Big open space, soundproofing and a good view of the neighbour's bedroom across the street.
Oh, I'm sorry. You meant DANCE studio.

T_E

[fascination]

Well, I agree with all the posts above.
I am from Bulgaria, and here, we have very few, real, dance studios. Most of the dancesport clubs practise in school qyms. I am a happy man, because my clud possesses a dance studio with good floor and mirrors and everything you need to feel the incredible atmosphere, to feel the magic of dancing.

If we speak about the teachers (instructors), I want to say that for me is not very important whether my theacher was a champion or not. But it is important my theacher to be a great teacher. I think so, because I know a lot of great competitors in diferent sports, who aren't good teachers.

I forgot to write that I am a competitor. I started dancing, and competing before 3 years. I have been severeal times to, so called social dances, but dancesport is much more interesting for me.
welcome to DF...thanks for posting

[fascination]

Agreed. I was recommended to a champ and although she was a great dancer/follower she wasn't a good teacher. At one point she even said, "Do it like that," as she pointed to another guy doing a completely different step. Even if he was doing the same step, I don't need to pay her to watch others when videos can do that.

Likewise, just because a teacher has a license doesn't mean they're a good teacher.

I do really like a teacher spending a few seconds to help every individual during a group class so even if I already know the steps I hear what I need to focus on the most. I do not like a teacher who slows down the entire class the entire time all for the slowest student... especially in a silver or higher class.welcome also... and I agree....and thanks for posting

[PyroStock]

One factor does depend on their teaching ability and if you two will get along. However, a more experienced teacher (with a license etc.) is better worth your money in the long haul than someone that isn't in my opinion.

My point wasn't that you must like your teacher, but that a teacher with a license is not necessarily an overall better teacher or even more experienced than a teacher without one... hence the "6-8week wonders". Bigger cities obviously have a larger selection of teachers. I consider the whole package and the license is just a part of that.

[SPratt74]

My point wasn't that you must like your teacher, but that a teacher with a license is not necessarily an overall better teacher or even more experienced than a teacher without one... hence the "6-8week wonders". Bigger cities obviously have a larger selection of teachers. I consider the whole package and the license is just a part of that.

I guess with me I've been through a bad situation regarding teachers that say this and that and don't have anything to back it up. I for one would never go with someone that isn't certified or licensed and that I can't find in any registry that you want to compete in if you want to compete etc. (or whatever you want to call them), because I have been fooled. I was told certain things and none of those things happened or were ever going to happen by people that had been teaching for years or even a few years etc. (which is why you must find out exactly what they had been teaching and find out why exactly they have not ever competed in the area you are asking about etc., but still want to teach it to you knowing that you want to compete in it etc.). I question people like that now just because of what I've been through and I know better now. However, you have had a great experience, and I'm happy for you! I just won't ever do that again, because I have wasted money going that route.

Welcome to the forum by the way!!! ;)

[Love2Dance]

I have actually been reading the forums for a while and I have to say there is a lot of good information to be found here.

I just wanted to say I agree with much of what everyone has said. I wanted to share an experience of mine.

I come from a larger city, but now live and dance in a good sized town . There are a handful of places that teach ballroom in my town, and I started taking lessons with this guy teaching ballroom at a really neat older building. This guy was actually very arrogant and full of himself, but not in an overbearing kind of way, so it didn't really put me off totally at first, but he certainly had a way of pushing the fact that he was "professional" by words rather than actions. He had this way of pushing the fact that he was the only "real" professional in the area and no one else really knew what they were doing (red flag, by the way). He would tout these certifications and "licenses"... by the way... I've never heard of anyone needing a "license" to teach ballroom? I mean, you can get certifications, awards, and whatever, no matter how good you are, but "licensed"? This is a new one to me. (red flag number two, by the way). But, I took it upon myself to make sure I knew what other instructors were available. After a little leg-work, it turns out there's really only one studio in town that has any dancers that actively compete. Plus, after going there a few times, not a single one of their instructors tried to tell me how certified they were, they just explained and showed me what they could offer me.

Now, don't get me wrong, the guy is an ok dancer and probably not too bad of a teacher. However, I have worked with different professionals from many areas of the country at events, or just private coaching, and I certainly wouldn't consider him very high calibre. Now, this is just my opinion. As a baby-dancer of only 6 years, I know that there is much of the journey left ahead of me and I wouldn't consider myself "qualified" to say he's a "bad" instructor or dancer, just that it wasn't a comfortable fit for me.

So, basically, I guess anyone can say they are "certified" or "licensed", but you really have to make your own decisions as to whether or not they can help you reach your goals. And, just because you find someone you don't necessarily work well with, doesn't mean they are a bad instructor either, because I have had nationally renowned teachers work with me that I felt just didn't give me what I needed, or didn't really pay attention to my individual needs. Anyone can say they've worked with a high-dollar coach, but it's not about that. It's really just about becoming a better dancer. The studio I go to now is fun and I learn from a very good and experienced instructor, so basically I found my place to become a better dancer and still pursue competitions.

[saludas]

People who are compelled to tell you how professional they are are usually not, in my experience. The quality that a teacher needs to inform the student is their ability to teach you to achieve the current goal.

The 'current goal' constantly changes, btw - what you 'know to be exactly what you want' from a coach today might change tomorrow or next year - as your perspective shifts as you progress or change your views (hence the 6 week wonders getting many of the newbies since the newbies' perspective is ussually based on how 'fun' the experience is, or how they compare the expereince to those in their past).

The studio also becomes a shifting target for you - newbies may want convenience (you'd be surprised how many people will spend thousands of dollars and years of their life on their dance expereince simply based on proximity to their home), or a welcoming atmosphere (even though the welcoming atmosphere is a sales ploy, similar to the way that Wal Mart has a senior citizen at the front door to seemingly welcome you).

[liangjz]

People who are compelled to tell you how professional they are are usually not, in my experience.

They're compensating for it. Sometimes I think they're trying to convince themselves as much as anybody else.

In my experience, good instructors often seem to assume you believe they know what they're talking about or can convince you in the period of the lesson. Those who have spent time talking about how qualified they are, especially during lesson time, have not been able to help me.

I used to take classes at a studio run my actively competing national champs. Their website looked like it was made by a 10-year-old during recess. My instructor in ABQ, who I think is by far the best the city has to offer, didn't seem to know the first thing about promotions, effective advertising, or how to make a good website. I've got tons of other examples, but you get the idea..

On the other hand, the (dance-challenged) instructors seem to have flyers and ads everywhere.

Honestly, I think the free/cheap intro lesson mechanism is a good idea, at least for non-beginners looking for a person to take lessons from. Either an instructor is able to solve your problems and give you useful information or he/she is not. After about 30/45 minutes, this should be pretty obvious.

[SPratt74]

I have actually been reading the forums for a while and I have to say there is a lot of good information to be found here.

I just wanted to say I agree with much of what everyone has said. I wanted to share an experience of mine.

I come from a larger city, but now live and dance in a good sized . There are a handful of places that teach ballroom in my town, and I started taking lessons with this guy teaching ballroom at a really neat older building. This guy was actually very arrogant and full of himself, but not in an overbearing kind of way, so it didn't really put me off totally at first, but he certainly had a way of pushing the fact that he was "professional" by words rather than actions. He had this way of pushing the fact that he was the only "real" professional in the area and no one else really knew what they were doing (red flag, by the way). He would tout these certifications and "licenses"... by the way... I've never heard of anyone needing a "license" to teach ballroom? I mean, you can get certifications, awards, and whatever, no matter how good you are, but "licensed"? This is a new one to me. (red flag number two, by the way). But, I took it upon myself to make sure I knew what other instructors were available. After a little leg-work, it turns out there's really only one studio in town that has any dancers that actively compete. Plus, after going there a few times, not a single one of their instructors tried to tell me how certified they were, they just explained and showed me what they could offer me.

Now, don't get me wrong, the guy is an ok dancer and probably not too bad of a teacher. However, I have worked with different professionals from many areas of the country at events, or just private coaching, and I certainly wouldn't consider him very high calibre. Now, this is just my opinion. As a baby-dancer of only 6 years, I know that there is much of the journey left ahead of me and I wouldn't consider myself "qualified" to say he's a "bad" instructor or dancer, just that it wasn't a comfortable fit for me.

So, basically, I guess anyone can say they are "certified" or "licensed", but you really have to make your own decisions as to whether or not they can help you reach your goals. And, just because you find someone you don't necessarily work well with, doesn't mean they are a bad instructor either, because I have had nationally renowned teachers work with me that I felt just didn't give me what I needed, or didn't really pay attention to my individual needs. Anyone can say they've worked with a high-dollar coach, but it's not about that. It's really just about becoming a better dancer. The studio I go to now is fun and I learn from a very good and experienced instructor, so basically I found my place to become a better dancer and still pursue competitions.

I have done my research to know that the people that I am taking from are credible. I have asked other dance members (from this message board and at other studios) what they have thought, and they too have confirmed my thinking before I went to another studio. And I do NOT think it's wrong for an instructor to tell you their certifications. In fact, I think it's wrong for them to tell you one thing and not be able to deliver. To me that's not "red flags" but good business especially when they tell you first to go to somewhere else before deciding to go to them. I thought that was very professional. There is nothing wrong with that in my opinion.

Oh and I wanted to add that I have been to more than one studio in my city to check them out and all of them had told me what they have done in their dancing careers, because I had asked them. Again that's not a red flag but good business, because it was up to me to decide what my next step would be. I wanted someone with the background, and because I had asked around and did the research online even, I knew that I had gotten what I wanted and the best in my opinion. So again, just because you might want one thing from an instructor does not mean that someone else wants that too. It's important to ask questions and to find out what you can before YOU decide who you want than what someone else tells you what you think you want.

And to me I don't look for fun. I look for who can teach me what I need to know. It depends on what YOU want from a studio though, and again that might be different than what I want, and that's ok too. ;)

By the way you sound awfully familiar, I wonder if I know you? , and if you live in the city that I do (which I think that you do), there is more than one studio that competes. I belong to one that competes only in Ballroom and Latin and actually we do have very well known Swing competitions at our studio too (I actually belonged to a studio before this that competes in Country Western), and I'm having the time of my life, and possibly two new dance partners! It just depends on what you want to compete in. Some studios will have more competitors depending on who all can afford what. Also, Country Western is cheaper than Ballroom and Latin (in this area), and they have a lot more competitors. By cheaper I mean costume wise etc., plus you don't have to fly anywhere to compete. You can drive to the places that they go to. It just depends on what you want to do. So, I wouldn't say that there is only one studio that has active competitors. Why? Because I am one and so are my possible two partners! Plus the other members that attend my studio, and the members at my other studio that I once belonged to.

By the way no one has has ever said to me that you need a license to teach just that they have a license to teach and there is a difference. You can get a license to teach like you can in any area that you go into. There are many instructors in are area that have nothing, but that is not what "I" am looking for. However, that might be fine for you and that is ok. I just won't do that again no matter who tries to tell me differently.

[SPratt74]

love2dance - I wasn't trying to be mean at all if I sounded that way. I was correcting you, because I felt that was appropriate to do so since I don't want other students thinking that there is only one studio that we can compete in or that we can have fun in, because there are more than the two that you and I had mentioned in our area and I know you know this. In fact, there are also some studios in the area that are in the smaller cities that are only ten minutes away that also compete and that have fun events, and sometimes hotels that have ballrooms and colleges that teach dance will have fun things going on if you are willing to take the time to do the research. You can always find a place that will give you what you want if you are willing to make the sacrifices. I want students to be able to choose what's best for them in our area, and not by what we think is best even though we can always offer advice ;). That's why no matter what problems I might have had with other studios, I won't ever tell someone that they can't go to that studio or shouldn't even though sometimes I really want to. It's up to them what they want to do with their life and their money. Because no matter what we say won't make a difference in their opinion when it comes right down to it, it will be other things that they decide are worth their time and money in the future. ;)

[anp73ga31]

Personally, I have picked the studio where I go because of the following things:
1. It is beautiful...doesn't look like a gym, etc. I love the atmosphere.
2. The folks who own it are super nice.
3. They play great music(versus some others I've been to where you practically have to beg for a song to samba or bolero to, etc).
4. It feels like home. I don't really know why, but I've been going there for a year and a half now, and there is no other studio in town that I would rather be. It just feels.....right. Can't really explain it.
5. I have watched the instructor there dance and he is a fabulous dancer. Being that I want to start competing more, it also certainly helps that he's competed and performed many times.

I guess like the others said, you just have to find the perfect fit for you. AND know that its ok to change, should the "perfect fit" change with your changing needs.

[SPratt74]

Personally, I have picked the studio where I go because of the following things:
1. It is beautiful...doesn't look like a gym, etc. I love the atmosphere.
2. The folks who own it are super nice.
3. They play great music(versus some others I've been to where you practically have to beg for a song to samba or bolero to, etc).
4. It feels like home. I don't really know why, but I've been going there for a year and a half now, and there is no other studio in town that I would rather be. It just feels.....right. Can't really explain it.
5. I have watched the instructor there dance and he is a fabulous dancer. Being that I want to start competing more, it also certainly helps that he's competed and performed many times.

I guess like the others said, you just have to find the perfect fit for you. AND know that its ok to change, should the "perfect fit" change with your changing needs.

Oh those were some of my reasons too even though they weren't major reasons lol! ;)

[Love2Dance]

Saludas - I completely agree with you. My goals have changed so much from when I first started dancing. It's hard to know what you really want when you don't know anything. It really takes getting in there and getting your feet wet before you can possibly have an idea of where to go. Sometimes it takes learning a little to gain perspective on how much you really don't know. In fact, it was actually a ballroom coach I worked with who first took me to a country competition. When I started, I never would have thought anything of a country competition, but I was surprised at the calibre of dancer that takes part in both, which is why I enjoy both country and dancesport style competitions. I think that it is so important that you assess a teacher for their ability to help you achieve your current goals as well as helping you as you set other goals. I've had coaches who've given me smaller goals to work toward that ultimately led toward some grander goal I envisioned, plus, I've had coaches who've given me goals that years ago would've have seemed completely impossible, but now almost seem reasonable.

SPratt74 - I think you must have me confused with somebody. I don't think we're in the same town. There are multiple studios in my town and I actually attend more than one studio. The only thing I can think of is since you compete, perhaps we have run into each other at a competition. Do you travel outside of Missouri for competition? I can't think of any events in Missouri that I've been to, mostly I like travelling to bigger cities, or warmer climes.

It sounds like you have a great studio to be a part of and a wonderful instructor to work with. I was just giving an example in my town of someone who touts a "license" however doesn't really compare to many instructors/coaches I have worked with who are not "licensed".

[SPratt74]

SPratt74 - I think you must have me confused with somebody. I don't think we're in the same town. There are multiple studios in my town and I actually attend more than one studio. The only thing I can think of is since you compete, perhaps we have run into each other at a competition. Do you travel outside of Missouri for competition? I can't think of any events in Missouri that I've been to, mostly I like travelling to bigger cities, or warmer climes.


No I don't have you confused... the guy is the only one that has won that many awards in our city. No one else has. Also, you said an "older building", which my building is older. It's historic. Also, I'm glad that you are here, but I did have to correct you in what you were saying.

[Love2Dance]

SPratt74 - I don't live there

[contracheck]

Most important thing to me is friendly and accomodating proprietors of the studio. I danced in a large fabulous studio (best facility in NJ) for several yrs. I always felt uncomfortable with its proprietor who was overbearing to his customers. One day I was matched up with a beginner partner in his workshop. My partner danced with raised shoulders, so I told her softly "down your shoulder." He heard me and stopped teaching and dressed me down for several minutes in front of all of the students that I should not talk with students in his studio, and threatened that he would kick me out of his studio. I was quite surprised at his abrasiveness because he had never told that his policy forbade student talking to each other. Several days later, I was talking with my partner during a dance at his social party. He followed me to the mens room and told me again that we were not allowed to talk each other during dancing. From that point on, I felt uneasy anout this studio becuase I was afraid of what other untold his policies I was violating. An instructor in his studio had already told me that he could not attract any top notch instructors because he was breathing down their necks too much. Besides, I did not like his policy at all because, his studio being a dance school, students should research dance and be allowed to discuss dancing freely. If students could not resolve a dance issue they could go to him for expert opinons. I stopped going to his studio 2 yrs ago. Last week, I met a fellow dancer I had met in his studio. He told me that he, as well as some of his friends, stopped going there because he had the same experience as mine in this studio. This studio is the most fabulous studio in NJ if not in the entire US, but it cannot get hold of good instructors. As far as I know, with the possible exception of his daughte, there is not one instructor who has been a champion in any competition. I am staying away this kind of studios.

[anp73ga31]

He heard me and stopped teaching and dressed me down for several minutes in front of all of the students that I should not talk with students in his studio and threatened that he would kick me out. I was quite surprised at his abrasiveness because he had never warned us that it was his policy. Several days later, I was talking with my partner at his social party. He followed me to the mens room and warned me again that we were not allowed to talk each other.

Wow, that is insane! Good thing you left.

[SPratt74]

Most important thing to me is friendly and accomodating proprietors of the studio. I danced in a large fabulous studio (best facility in NJ) for several yrs. I always felt uncomfortable with its proprietor who was overbearing to his customers. One day I was matched up with a beginner partner in his workshop. My partner danced with raised shoulders, so I told her softly "down your shoulder." He heard me and stopped teaching and dressed me down for several minutes in front of all of the students that I should not talk with students in his studio, and threatened that he would kick me out of his studio. I was quite surprised at his abrasiveness because he had never told that his policy forbade student talking to each other. Several days later, I was talking with my partner during a dance at his social party. He followed me to the mens room and told me again that we were not allowed to talk each other during dancing. From that point on, I felt uneasy anout this studio becuase I was afraid of what other untold his policies I was violating. An instructor in his studio had already told me that he could not attract any top notch instructors because he was breathing down their necks too much. Besides, I did not like his policy at all because, his studio being a dance school, students should research dance and be allowed to discuss dancing freely. If students could not resolve a dance issue they could go to him for expert opinons. I stopped going to his studio 2 yrs ago. Last week, I met a fellow dancer I had met in his studio. He told me that he, as well as some of his friends, stopped going there because he had the same experience as mine in this studio. This studio is the most fabulous studio in NJ if not in the entire US, but it cannot get hold of good instructors. As far as I know, with the possible exception of his daughte, there is not one instructor who has been a champion in any competition. I am staying away this kind of studios.

Did we happen to attend the same studio lol?

[fascination]

let's please not get specific with names and locations regarding opions on quality on the public forum, not that anyone has yet, but if you want to chat local issues I would recommend pms....thanks

[SPratt74]

let's please not get specific with names and locations regarding opions on quality on the public forum, not that anyone has yet, but if you want to chat local issues I would recommend pms....thanks

I'm sorry fascination, but I did take that post personally. I don't know why I put ----- though lol. I think that I probably confused some posters that know me with that one lol. Oh well. I had a long night. My mom flew in yesterday and family was here late lol.

I made my points though, and its time to move on lol. ;)

[wooh]

I just think fascination's saying that we need to speak in more general terms. If I were to say the Atlanta studio that specializes in competive smooth with pink polka dots on the walls and jack-o-lanterns in the bathrooms year round with 3 rooms that has a weird stripe going around all the mirrors that's located north of the loop, and then said it really sucked because of temperatures always being too cold and the teachers all had a round of drug-resistant head lice that they weren't able to get rid of for at least a month, that just wouldn't be very nice. But it would be ok if I said I preferred a studio without head lice and with a nice decorating scheme. When some of the posts were heading towards the first, I was getting kind of squeamish, as not all people want to be outed as their real-life personas, and it's just not nice to pick on individual studios that aren't around to defend themselves.

ETA: Hoping that no Atlanta area studios have recently painted their walls with pink polka dots!

[wooh]

As for me, I look for sincerity and honest business practices. There is a studio I won't set foot in because I feel they've done some very underhanded things with their business practices. And I'm a dance slut, I'll go just about anywhere. That's the same thing I look for in an instructor. I want talent and experience, but I don't care how much of that you've got if I think you're sneaky or underhanded.

[anp73ga31]

ETA: Hoping that no Atlanta area studios have recently painted their walls with pink polka dots!

LMAO! Well around Atl you never know....ha ha ha!

I do think the key in discussing our bad experiences is not giving out info that may easily identify a studio or an instructor. Because giving out identifying info makes it sound like you are doing it with harmful intent, and it could be viewed as slander(or is it libel? I get the two mixed up!). Just not a good idea in general.

That being said, did I mention I love my studio? :wink:
Finding a good place to dance is everything....
I love to dance (sigh)....hey, where's the smiley with hearts for eyes when you need it?!

[SPratt74]

I'm a dance slut

Lol! I love that line! That is hilarious lol! I need to remember that lol!

Back on topic: I think it's great when a studio offers different level group classes. I really enjoy my Intermediate classes, because you don't have to deal with beginners (unless they walk in not knowing what they are getting into, and we have had some like that lol). But that to me is important too, because I've had to cut back on my privates (I still take them though, but I had to cut back to only once every two weeks lol, so I go to more group lessons lol), but yet I really enjoy my group lessons, and I have learned something from every single one that I have went to. I have even started to take a journal with me, so I can remember what I have learned. ;)

[anp73ga31]

Group lessons are certainly a great supplement to a private, especially when money is a factor. Now, were I rich, I'd take a private lesson every day....lol! But thats another story entirely :rolleyes:

[SPratt74]

Group lessons are certainly a great supplement to a private, especially when money is a factor. Now, were I rich, I'd take a private lesson every day....lol! But thats another story entirely :rolleyes:

Lol! I know what you mean! I had to cut back my working hours but I still work. However, with the holidays coming up I am going to have a tough time since there will be a good 20 people to keep entertained and fed etc. throughout the weeks, and since I'm not making as much now, I have to really cut back. My money will go more for that than my privates, but my instructor knows this. He knows I haven't cut back because I necessarily want to it's more like I have to right now lol. But I made sure to communicate this with him, because I do think communication should be a top factor when dealing with your instructor no matter what the issue is.

[fascination]

I just think fascination's saying that we need to speak in more general terms. If I were to say the Atlanta studio that specializes in competive smooth with pink polka dots on the walls and jack-o-lanterns in the bathrooms year round with 3 rooms that has a weird stripe going around all the mirrors that's located north of the loop, and then said it really sucked because of temperatures always being too cold and the teachers all had a round of drug-resistant head lice that they weren't able to get rid of for at least a month, that just wouldn't be very nice. But it would be ok if I said I preferred a studio without head lice and with a nice decorating scheme. When some of the posts were heading towards the first, I was getting kind of squeamish, as not all people want to be outed as their real-life personas, and it's just not nice to pick on individual studios that aren't around to defend themselves.

ETA: Hoping that no Atlanta area studios have recently painted their walls with pink polka dots!:D :D precisely, just saying that once anyone gets regional, it would be preferable, particularly if we are talking fairly precisley and negatively, that local issues be taken up privately, this forum doesn't want to appear to support a small slice of opinion about a very particular venue...and again, oftentimes I would rather issue that concern prior to when it is too late...thanks

[fascination]

As for me, I look for sincerity and honest business practices. There is a studio I won't set foot in because I feel they've done some very underhanded things with their business practices. And I'm a dance slut, I'll go just about anywhere. That's the same thing I look for in an instructor. I want talent and experience, but I don't care how much of that you've got if I think you're sneaky or underhanded.amen ...you are on a roll today...I so agree with you on all counts:cool:

[fascination]

LMAO! Well around Atl you never know....ha ha ha!

I do think the key in discussing our bad experiences is not giving out info that may easily identify a studio or an instructor. Because giving out identifying info makes it sound like you are doing it with harmful intent, and it could be viewed as slander(or is it libel? I get the two mixed up!). Just not a good idea in general.

That being said, did I mention I love my studio? :wink:
Finding a good place to dance is everything....
I love to dance (sigh)....hey, where's the smiley with hearts for eyes when you need it?!
I haven't found anything about atlanta that I don't love;)

[fascination]

Group lessons are certainly a great supplement to a private, especially when money is a factor. Now, were I rich, I'd take a private lesson every day....lol! But thats another story entirely :rolleyes:well, you couldn't do it if you were only slightly rich, b/c then you no longer would be, lol...of course I don't know anyone like this;)

[Love2Dance]

:D :D precisely, just saying that once anyone gets regional, it would be preferable, particularly if we are talking fairly precisley and negatively, that local issues be taken up privately, this forum doesn't want to appear to support a small slice of opinion about a very particular venue...and again, oftentimes I would rather issue that concern prior to when it is too late...thanks

My apologies if I was too specific in recounting my experience. I really wasn't trying to offend anyone, I was just trying to share a personal experience that was valuable to me when I moved to this area and had to find new places to dance.

[fascination]

you didn't ...no problem...just a moderator thing...an ounce of prevention, yada yada.....I had no target

[waltzgirl]

If I were looking for a new studio, I would definitely take the new student special at all of my candidates and come early so I could hang around and watch other lessons and get a feel for the studio, go to their socials, and hear their sales pitch before I made up my mind.

The specific instructor is most important, but the studio itself would have some weight with me. Studios tend to be more permanent. I'm glad I started lessons with one of the owners of the studio, because of the pros who were there when I started four years ago, none of the non-owners is still there. But the studio recruits the same calibre of teacher, so had I started with someone else who later left, there would have been good replacements available.

[liz]

As I keep exploring the dance scene here in Los Angeles, I've noticed that everyone has different ways of running their business and each studio has their own approach in regards to teaching, socials, etc.

I was wondering what do you guys think about the studio(s) where you dance? What do you expect out of it, what are your likes and dislikes? What do you guys consider a priority when it comes to choosing a studio? I would appreciate comments not only from the locals (US residents) but also if you're abroad... let me know.

I think one thing that is very important to me in who I work with is that we share the same goals.. I need to dance with others that share my passion and are on the same page as I am... I think about what kind of instructor moves you and motivates you.. Then, do what you have to work with them... I am a very driven person and for me I had to work with teachers that understand that part of me and who will push me to my limits... Different people respond to different things... what works for me may not work for you.. But, always do what you feel is right..

[fascination]

Stop Now

[contracheck]

let's please not get specific with names and locations regarding opions on quality on the public forum, not that anyone has yet, but if you want to chat local issues I would recommend pms....thanks

I don't know how many people are going to agree with you. This was a true story, but I was discrete enough not to reveal any names or locations.

[pygmalion]

Hmm. Now I'm intrigued, and have to go read the whole thread. It sure is nice, just being a lay member of DF. :lol:

[anp73ga31]

I don't know how many people are going to agree with you. This was a true story, but I was discrete enough not to reveal any names or locations.

I think she was talking about the other poster, who mentioned specific details about the building and instructor, etc. in their story.

[fascination]

I don't know how many people are going to agree with you. This was a true story, but I was discrete enough not to reveal any names or locations.you were not being addressed ...and agreement with moderation is not neccessary, optimal, but not always possible

[contracheck]

agreement with moderation is not neccessary, optimal, but not always possible
What is this nonsense? What is agreement with moderation? Can anyone explain?

[fascination]

bottom line? I wasn't referring to you or your story or the details that were in your story...I was dealing with a different circumstance...that is all...

the secondary point was that it doesn't matter whether or not you or others agree with me...if I am moderating, I am making a judgement call, that is all...

[contracheck]

bottom line? I wasn't referring to you or your story or the details that were in your story...I was dealing with a different circumstance...that is all...

the secondary point was that it doesn't matter whether or not you or others agree with me...if I am moderating, I am making a judgement call, that is all...

Good, good, and wise. I guess that you and I have a lot in common. If in doubt, please see the photo titled "General Contracheck" in Member Gallery, Photo Album. I've just led my tank troops in Veterans Day (yesterday) on 5th Ave in New York City. I just run over anyone who does not agree with me.

[fascination]

yes, of course that is precisely what I was saying, if you will note my previous post, I said agreement is optimal...but for many reasons, not always possible...and often for reasons that will not be discussed...and you are free to characterize that and me however you like

[SPratt74]

Lol... I feel sorry for the main poster that asked a question that got so out of hand. I'm sorry about that. But anyways, I didn't mean to make people mad (especially those that are teaching on here that don't have anything) by saying that I won't go to someone that doesn't have what I am looking for which is a background and that has a proven history. It's just that I've been dramatized (I'm sure there is a better psychology term for this lol), and so it's going to take a lot to change my mind after what I've been through. But that is the most important thing for me at this time, and I hope that you all can understand this. I can already see a big difference in how I'm dancing and that means the world to me. I feel like I can start competing with you guys now, but I told myself I wouldn't compete until next year after the holidays lol. That's always been my goal, and now I'm at a place where I can do so in Ballroom and Latin, and I absolutely love it! It's everything that I could have hoped for even though I know not everyone will feel the same way, which is why you have to find what works for you. Again I'm very sorry, I know you guys know me well to know I didn't mean anything harmful by what I had said, but I still didn't mean to make anyone upset if I did. I just felt as though I should apologize on here even though I have elsewhere. And I appreciate all of the support I received today. You've all been such a blessing not just today but on other days as well. Thank you! ;)

[fascination]

okay ...now back to the OP