Private lessons for the leader

[Jack]

I have had a few private lessons, but I now feel i need lessons on proper posture, leading etc;

Would it be preferable to learn this from a male or female teacher?

Thanks*








[/quote]Live every day to the fullest.

[MadamSamba]

Hey, Jack and welcome to DF. It's pretty good that you even notice you need lessons in those things. I've had lessons from both males and females and you'll get a unique perspective from both, but until you're sure of what you need to do and how you should do it, you're probably better off sticking with a male teacher for the time being.

The other thing you can do is ask females who you dance with how they felt dancing with you...if that's a little too much, try asking them generically what they find wrong with male leads. :)

[Suaveson]

Don't be too hard on yourself, learning how to be a good lead will come with time. A few tips that were given to me are the following:

1. Keep an eye on your partner(Make eye contact, smile -don't stare though) look at her expressions (smiling, frowning) :wink: :evil: :P

2. Unless you know for sure skill level of the person start easy and move to more turn patterns/combos later. Remember good salsa songs don't start and finish in 30 seconds. Keep her interested by mixing it up, and remember the better she looks, the better you look! 8)

3. Stay controlled, relax and enjoy yourself, (I see too many people that stare at their feet, other people.)

4. Practice, Practice and Practice - Live - eat - breathe Salsa!

5. Try to find a good partner (big help)

I'm sure an experienced male teacher would be better to help you posture, leadership , but once you are comfortable with all the basics and know how to apply them good leadership comes with time.

chow :D

[pygmalion]

There was also some good input in the Does the sex of the instructor matter (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=721) thread.