Partner Stretches and Exercises for Dance Classes
Check out these wonderful classroom partner stretches and stretching exercises from Magical Kingdom of Dance! Our goal for February is to teach our students to build bridges instead of walls. The focus is Teamwork! “Togetherness is learning to work, play and dance together, for it’s far more fun to share our satisfactions with others. Great things happen […]
Teaching Respect in Dance: The Value of Reverence
It’s important to be teaching respect in dance, and instilling a sense of reverence in our students. By definition, reverence means “deep respect for someone or something,” and we should be building that mentality in all of our dancers. By adding a small ritual of respect into our lessons, we can ensure our dancers grow […]
How to Promote Productive Dance Practice
For studio dancers, input typically comes in the form of dance practice (rehearsals, solo lessons, cleaning sessions, technique, conditioning, etc.). Input = Output is an important concept to accept and embrace. When results are measured, it is important to consider this equation. Did you invest the work (input) that was required to produce the outcome (output) […]
Teaching Rhythm in Dance: Ideas and Exercises
Growing up, I trained in all styles of dance and played a musical instrument, the piano. I could easily and proficiently count music, read music, and identify an upbeat or downbeat. Now, as a teacher, I notice that many students, across varying ages and skill levels, struggle with the musical components of dance instruction. Phrasing, […]
Dance Instruction: Eliminating Sloppy, Floppy Fingers Through Specificity
To complete the arm lines on the body, the fingers must be placed and engaged. One of the most prominent and noticeable choreographic errors may be found in “sloppy, floppy fingers.” It breaks the line of the body and is terribly distracting. Thankfully, with some specific critiques and dance instruction, we can fix that! Placement […]
Maintaining Accountability as a Dance Professional
How do you maintain your accountability as a dance professional? Here are some thoughts for maintaining your relevance and staying refreshed: Research New Ideas Network with Other Professionals Continue Your Education Reflect on Your Career Progress Consider Progress & Evolution Have A Responsibility to Share The responsibility to share promotes the practical application of research, […]
Being A Dance Teacher: 8 Tips for Strong Student Relationships
Connecting with students is imperative to the lasting success and legacy of your business. You have an opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life and inspire their appreciation for the performing arts. Being a dance teacher is a huge role, responsibility, and opportunity, and it should be taken seriously. The following tips will […]
Helping Students Apply Dance Critique
Dance instructors must provide constructive feedback to help their students excel.