So, you've decided to step into the world of dance as an adult – fantastic choice!
Whether you're looking to master the salsa, glide gracefully across the ballroom floor in a cheeky Foxtrot, or simply bust a move with confidence at social gatherings, there's a dance style out there for you.
But where do you begin?
Fear not, fellow adult dancer-to-be, for I'm here to guide you!
Below, I've listed the most common methods of learning with regard to social dancing, and the benefits of each, from price-point to personalization.
Take a look, and see which options works the best for you!
Private Dance Lessons: Your Personalized Path to Success
Imagine having a dance instructor all to yourself, guiding your every step; tailoring the lessons to your specific needs and goals – that's the beauty of private dance lessons. Whether you're an absolute beginner, or aiming to improve your existing technique, private dance lessons - although more expensive than group classes, or social dances - offer a personalized approach that can, and will accelerate your progress.
Here's what to expect:
- Individualized Attention: Your instructor will focus solely on you, offering feedback and tips tailored to your learning style and abilities.
- Flexible Schedule: Arrange sessions at a time that suits you, making it easier to incorporate dance into your busy lifestyle. Private Dance Lessons with Christifer Duxbury are each 50 minutes long, and often end with ideas for at-home practice.
- Customized Curriculum: From mastering basic steps to perfecting intricate choreography, your lessons will be designed to help you achieve your dance aspirations. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to a Private Dance Lesson. While you'll learn in an order that makes logical and physical sense, you'll also learn based off of what seems like it would work best for maximum retention and enjoyment.
If you're in (or near) Calgary, and would like to stop by for a private dance lesson, simply scan, or click the QR code below!
Group Dance Classes: Where Learning Meets Community
Group dance classes are like a lively dance party where everyone's invited – no partner required!
These sessions are perfect for meeting like-minded individuals, honing your skills in a social setting, and having a blast while doing it.
Here's why group classes rock:
- Sense of Community: Dance alongside fellow enthusiasts, share laughter, and support each other on your dance journeys. There's something to be said for a community of students all learning together.
- Variety of Styles: Explore different dance styles and find the one that speaks to your soul, from salsa and swing to tango and two-step. Learn how the styles work together, how they differ, which ones you absolutely love, and which ones don't quite speak to you.
- Affordable and Fun: Group classes are often far more budget-friendly than private dance lessons, making them accessible to dancers of almost all levels and backgrounds. Dancing shouldn't break the bank!
If you're in (or near) Calgary, and would like to stop by for one of our Group Dance Classes, click the image of dancers below to see an up-to-date list of the current courses!
Social Dancing: Bringing Your Moves to the Dance Floor
Ah, social dancing – the ultimate "test" of your newfound skills, and the gateway to a world of rhythm and connection.
Whether it's a night out with your fellow students at a Social Dance and/or Open Practice, at a salsa club with friends, at a wedding reception, or any other event, social dancing allows you to put your newly learned moves into practice, and dance with confidence.
Here's how to make the most of it:
- Embrace the Joy: Forget about perfection and focus on enjoying the music, connecting with your partner (or yourself!), and letting loose on the dance floor.
Don't let PERFECT be the enemy of GOOD, and definitely don't let it be the enemy of FUN!
- Be Open to Learning: Every dance encounter is an opportunity to grow and improve.
Don't be afraid to ask for a dance or seek feedback from more experienced dancers or coaches/instructors (although, be prepared to book a dance lesson to get assistance from a coach/instructor! They will get you much farther, much faster. A few private lessons can make a huge difference!)
- Celebrate Your Progress: Remember, every step you take is a step closer to becoming the dancer you aspire to be.
Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
Learned a new pattern? YAY!
Remembered to keep your head up? YAY!
Remembered the name of that dancer you met at last week's social dance? YAY!
A win is a win is a win.
Interested in stopping by one of Christifer Duxbury Dance Collective's Social Dance and Open Practice Events? Click the image below to see when the next one will be starting!
Starting a journey into the world of dance as an adult can be exhilarating, overwhelming, joyous, nerve-wracking, rewarding, and a myriad of other feelings!
Whether you choose private lessons, group classes, or want to dive straight into social dancing, remember that the most important thing is to enjoy the experience, and let your passion for dance, desire to be more physically fit, search for connection, etc. guide you every step of the way.
So, lace up those dance shoes, throw on your favorite outfit, and get ready to dance like nobody's watching – because in the end, it's all about finding your own rhythm and embracing the joy of movement.
If you're in Calgary, and you're considering taking dance lessons, I hope you'll consider taking your classes with me. I'll be there to support you every step of the way.
See you on the dance floor!