No, we do not have memberships. Everyone is welcome and all you need is an interest in
social dancing!
What is "Social Dancing"?
For Dance Harmony, "Social Dancing" refers to
Swing, Ballroom, and Latin partner style dances taught and enjoyed in a relaxed
social environment. We are not involved with the competitive aspects of
dancing.
Do I need to sign-up for lessons?
Yes. We limit class size for group lessons to ensure a positive lesson
experience, so we ask that
you please contact us if you are planning
to attend a group lesson, so we can reserve your place. Depending upon
the group lesson enrollment,
we may require prepayment to reserve your place. In addition, payment in
full (check or cash) is always due at the first lesson. But remember, there are never any long-term
commitments, and your satisfaction is totally guaranteed!
How many people are in a typical Group Lesson?
The minimum for group lessons is 2 couples. The maximum for group
lessons is 8-12 couples, depending upon the dance. Typically lessons
have 4-6 couples. I do limit group lesson size to ensure a high quality
lesson experience.
What if I do not have a dance partner?
Lessons are best with a partner. Please find a friend, co-worker, or relative
to partner with you. We do not rotate partners during lessons.
What is the suggested attire for lessons & practices?
We recommend casual & comfortable clothing that allows movement.
Tailored shorts, and jeans are all fine. I usually wear slacks and a
collared shirt. More importantly however is
footwear. I recommend any comfy non-grip shoes, but if you are uncertain about footwear, bring an
alternate pair of shoes to try.
What is the suggested attire for dances?
Attire for Dances is more "dressy" than lessons and
practices. I recommend nice casual and comfortable attire (no shorts,
no
jeans except for summer (hot) dances. For example, as a minimum, slacks and short sleeve shirt for men and skirt
(or slacks) & blouse for women. In regards to my Holiday and
Valentine's dance,
Shirt & Tie for men & Dress/Gown for women are recommended. However, do feel free to dress up
(many do) for my regular dances, if you so desire!
Notes for Learning Dancers
As a learning dancer, it was very common for me to take and re-take
beginner lessons, such that I could refine my technique, lead-follow, and
styling. In my dance philosophy, it is far better to learn fewer figures
well, than to try to learn many figures on a cursory basis, which are soon
forgotten. Bottom line - there is no shame in taking, or retaking lessons
below your level. Indeed this strategy will make you a better dancer. Rest
assured, if you take a lesson below your level, I will ensure your
investment with instructional nuggets to enhance your technique, form, and
style.
What is a "Beginner" dancer ?
For my purposes, a Beginner Dancer can be someone has never
danced a step, up to someone who may know a few steps, but needs a refresher.
What is an "Intermediate" dancer?
For my purposes, a Intermediate Dancer can be someone
who has completed
a Beginner class, up to someone who is comfortable with dance
basics with knowledge of 6-10 figures in a particular dance, but needs a refresher or wishes
to focus more on technique.
What is an "Advanced" dancer?
This is important. An Advanced Dancer is fluent in a wide array of
dance tempos and styles. An Advanced Dancer is interested in technique
and style to complement dance figures and amalgamations in a variety of
dance styles. For my purposes, an "Advanced" dancer is someone
that has completed multiple Intermediate classes, up to someone who is comfortable with
multiple dance styles and variations, but with a focus on technique and
style.
What is Swing Dance?
Swing is a partner style dance to up-tempo music. There are a variety of Swing styles, including Lindy Hop, East Coast,
West Coast, Shag, and Jive. Our Beginning Swing Classes teach
single-step, 6-count, East
Coast Swing, and Intermediate Swing introduces East Coast Swing with
triple-step.
What is Ballroom Dance?
Ballroom Dance includes both "Standard or Smooth" and "Latin
or Rhythm"
styles. "Standard or Smooth" dances include Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Viennese
Waltz and Quickstep. "Latin or Rhythm" dances include Rumba, Cha Cha,
Swing, Samba, Mambo, Meringue, Salsa, and others.
What if I miss a group class?
No problem! The group classes are flexible and fluid, so we can adapt to individual
needs and have regular practice
sessions, which are included with lesson enrollment and are a good
opportunity to make up for a missed lesson. There are no make-ups for
missed group lessons. Within each class, we readily accommodate a variety of levels and abilities and utilize a thorough
review each week to ensure your success.
What should I bring?
Wear comfy non-grip shoes, and a notebook if you wish to take notes. I
do provide a brief syllabus of dance figures for most classes. Keep in
mind, water
is provided for a short break.
What if I miss a Private lesson?
Private lessons have some
flexibility with schedule. However, there are some requirements with
cancellations and reschedules...
For Private lessons,
a twenty-four hour notice is required in order to avoid a cancellation
charge.
Same day Private
lesson cancellations will be subject to a $25 charge.
Habitual Private
lesson cancellations will be subject to charges, as I deem appropriate.
If you have a question that is not included in these FAQs, please send me an email
and I will answer your question accordingly, and include your inquiry in the
FAQs, as appropriate. I appreciate the feedback!
Dance Harmony
"Social Dancing at its Best" 220 North Main Street - Suite B
Pleasant Gap, PA 16823
Email -
kevin@danceharmony.com DVIDA and NDCA - Certified Ballroom
Dance Teacher
