Why should you look for a great ballroom dance teacher? Because, when you choose a ballroom dance instructor, you’re entering into a new relationship. It’s important to find the one that’s the best fit for you.

By the way, keep in mind that the best fit may not be the most experienced, celebrated teacher. Rather, it’ll be the one that you delight in learning from. When two people commit to spending time together (especially in such close proximity) there has to be respect and understanding between them.  Also, breath mints. Lol.  

No, really, bring the TicTacs.

Are you a bit nervous around your ballroom dance teacher?

When you start taking lessons, your anxiety may get the best of you.  In fact, it’ll get to the point where you don’t even hear what your ballroom dance teacher is saying.

Voices that you don’t recognize will be telling you that everyone is staring at you because they’ve never seen a bigger klutz before.  In addition, you can’t hear the beat of the music.  As a matter of fact, you weren’t aware of the music at all.

You’re not alone.

In the middle of this horrible, seemingly never-ending experience, you finally hear the voice of your instructor. (Isn’t it amazing to have your own private cheerleader?)   “Yes, that’s it!”   “You’re doing great!”  “Perfect, now one more time.” 

For you, these are the right words at just the right time.  Your ballroom dance teacher will never be frustrated with you. On the contrary, instructors will offer encouragement and inspiration.  

By the way, it’s not really true when they tell you, “One more time.” Actually, you’re gonna do it a bunch more times.

Be that as it may, wouldn’t it be nice to have that support in other aspects of your life? Imagine having your own personal champion dedicated to encouraging and promoting your success. Not only that, but this is the one person who never doubts your ability or drive.

It’s chemistry between you and your ballroom dance teacher!

Basically, when you’re developing a lasting alliance, the most important thing is chemistry. Dictionary.com says when it comes to relationships, chemistry is “the interaction of one personality with another.”

Great ballroom dance instructors have mastered the art of sharing good chemistry. They know they hold the key to your success on the dance floor.  Also, they’re aware that you may have had a stressful day and are sensitive to the fact that you need to relax. 

And ya’ gotta be having some fun!

Your instructor is excited as your dancing improves and has faith that you’ll meet your goal. To be sure, teachers are truly happy for you when you do. Take your time and find a teacher who encourages you and gently leads you to your goal.

Suggestions for the successful ballroom dance teacher.

Get to know your students. 

Asking questions and really, truly listening to the answers will ensure that your students feel that they’re in the right hands.  Interested teachers want to know their students’ dreams when it comes to their dancing.

A ballroom dance teacher must have a plan in place. 

Make a dance program that suits your students’ interests and respects their abilities.

Don’t wing it. 

Before you finish your lesson, take the time to review what was covered with your student and plan the next visit.

Have a warm-up dance. 

Bring your student into the wonderful world of the dance studio by gently easing them into the music and dancing.  Remember that the daily grind may take a moment to leave behind. 

Review, review, review. 

A great ballroom dance teacher makes sure to go over information from previous lessons and any new things that may have been introduced in a group class.

Here’s a Dance Safari post entitled, “Basic Ballroom Dance Steps for Beginners” which suggests increasing your student’s variety by using elements like Crossovers, 5th Position Breaks, and Underarm Turns in a number of different dances.

Introduce your students to others. 

Make sure your pupils meet other students and staff.  You want them to feel like this is a place …where everybody knows your name..     

Wind down. 

Make sure to finish the lesson on a high note.  When they think back to the last few minutes with you, let it bring a smile to their face.