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| 1.1) Methods of learning: Classes, Privates and Videotapes | |||
| Whether you are a beginner learning the first steps or an advanced dancer looking to refine your style and add some new moves, there are a number of options available to teach you how to dance salsa. The method you choose will probably be determined by your budget, location, schedule and how quickly you want to learn. No one method can be called the best as everyone has different learning styles. It’s up to you to decide which method is best for you. Ideally you should try a combination of learning methods as each method can enhance your dancing in different ways. Note that no matter which method you choose, they all require a lot of practice. The following lists the different types of lessons offered and some benefits and drawbacks of each type. | |||
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| 1.1.1) Organized Classes | |||
| Organized classes are the most popular, and probably one of the best ways to learn. Group classes last anywhere from 5 to 10 weeks, after which you may choose to progress to the next level. These classes are progressive and usually continuous - building on the steps and techniques you’ve previously learned. These classes should teach all that is needed: dance steps, technique, music, and leading and following.
The great thing about organized classes is you’ll that have a core group of fellow students at your level that you will be able to dance and practice with; creating a mini dance community of people with the same passion for dance as yourself. The drawback is that it requires a commitment of time. With people’s busy schedules nowadays it may be hard to commit to a specific time once or twice a week for an 8 or 10-week period. | |||
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| 1.1.2) Drop in Classes | |||
| Many instructors teach drop-in classes, which means anyone can join in at
any lesson. This type of class is often offered at nightclubs early in the evening. Since anyone can drop in, the class level can vary a lot, and the instructor may not be able to accommodate everyone's level. Another drawback, if the class is in a club setting, is that the environment can be noisy and disruptive, and there may be people (who aren’t participating in the classes) watching which may make beginners feel uncomfortable. An advantage of drop-in classes is that they are usually inexpensive and often include admission to the club. A big bonus is that you'll be able to practice what you’ve learned right away since you are already at a nightclub. Another advantage to drop-in classes is that you don’t have to make a commitment of time or money. It is also a great way to evaluate different instructors, to see who you like best, without having to sign up for a whole session. Drop-in classes can be a good complement to your organized classes. Experiment, enjoy the evening, and make sure to ask some of your fellow students to dance. | |||
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| 1.1.3) Private Classes | |||
| Private instruction is one of the best ways to learn if you can afford it. Personal attention will let you know where your mistakes are, and how to fix them. Your instructor will be able to pinpoint problems and focus specifically on the areas you need to improve on. This is especially critical for technique, leading and following. However private lessons can get expensive fast. It's a great experience to be able to practice your dancing with someone who is a great leader and/or follower. However, your instructor will most likely be much more advanced than the people than you'll end up dancing with at the clubs. It’s up to you to practice and make sure your leading and following skills can adapt to all levels, and not rely on your partner being a teacher. | |||
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| 1.1.4) Workshops | |||
| Most workshops are geared towards intermediate or advanced dancers and are a great way to learn new moves. They can be a single 2-3 hour class specifically focused on a specific subject or a series of intense workshops offered over 1 or 2 days (usually a weekend). They usually focus on very specific dance topic: turn patterns, shines, styling etc. Workshops can cover a lot of material in a short amount of time, and therefore are a great value. However, unlike organized classes, you will usually not cover these moves again with the instructors. Since this is a one-time deal, you may find yourself in a workshop class where the general dancing level is too low, or too high. Check with the instructors prior to the class to see whether the level is right for you.
Watch out for special workshops from out-of-town instructors - some of these opportunities should not be missed as they usually teach some really unique turn patterns or shines with the style/flavor which is specific to their city. | |||
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| 1.1.5) Videos | |||
| Many different instructors provide salsa instruction on video with levels ranging from beginner to advanced. Most teach a series of moves or patterns, slowly breaking down each move. These videos are available not only for different levels but also different dance styles. Some students respond well to video instruction, others require the attention only an experienced instructor provides. This method is great for people who can’t go to classes because of their location and/or schedule. However you may find it hard to learn the moves without a partner to try them out with. Videos can be a great affordable way to learn many new moves but be careful because you could get stuck with a $60 video from which you only like one or two moves, or one that is at an inappropriate level. | |||
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| 1.1.6) Watch and Learn | |||
| Some dancers have learned all they know from watching other dancers in clubs. This is very rare, and very impressive (if they are a good dancer that is). A lot of experienced dancers pick up new moves just by watching but that’s because they know the basic figures and are essentially picking up a new twist or a new way to combine the steps.
Most advanced dancers find themselves taking lessons sooner or later, realizing that learning the fundamentals are really important once you reach the higher levels of dancing. There are exceptions as some dancers actually learn without instruction. Whether you are able to duplicate other’s steps or not, watching other dancers is highly recommended. It will hopefully provide inspiration for your dancing, and keep you motivated to learn more. Just beware you don't watch and pick up some dancer's bad habits! |
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