How to Choose Your Perfect Studio

So, you’ve decided to sign up for dance classes. Or you’ve been dancing for quite a while and are somehow not satisfied with your studio. How do you define the quality of a dance studio? When should you switch? What should be offered? The answers will be presented to you in Q&A style. For each question, decide whether the studio you’re considering meets the requirement or not. And remember, these are general criteria – everyone has different needs, and if you are a recreational student, some points may not matter to you so much.

Are the studio owners/teachers always polite?
This is a top priority. Nobody, child or adult, can work well in a studio where the teachers are unfriendly. Of course, there will be rules and you might be told off if you misbehave, yet there is a difference between gentle but firm, and downright mean. Often, you will not find this out until you’ve actually been at the studio for a while. Don’t hesitate to quit if you feel mistreated!

What is the main focus of the studio?
Is it a competition studio? Or is it a ballet school? Whatever you want to learn – ballet, modern dance, hip-hop, or competition dances (lyrical) – there will be studios available. Choose one that suits your specific needs!

How does the technique of the students compare to that of other schools?
There are countless videos of dance classes of all ages up on Youtube. If you know anything at all about dance, you can observe a class in the studio considered, then check out several similar classes online. If the studio seems behind, this may be something you should investigate.
 

How long are classes? How often are they held?
For children 8 and up as well as adults, ballet, modern and jazz classes should be 75 minutes or longer. Students going en pointe should attend at least 2-3 ballet classes a week. And any class labeled ‘Advanced’ should be held at least 3-4 times a week.
 

Are there opportunities to perform?
You can’t expect a studio to hold a performance every 3 months. Yet one a year should be possible, and this is a criterion for many people. For adults, make sure you’re allowed to participate too – some schools only let children perform. Another thing to consider is whether rehearsals cut into class time. To some extent, this might be okay, but technique class should always remain the priority!

Finally, let your intuition guide you! You should always be happy with your studio choice.

If you’re thinking about enrolling your child in dance lessons, read “Tips to Prepare for Your Child’s First Dance Class”
Why dance? 10 great reasons right here.