Partners

• Do I need a partner to take lessons?

Generally, you are not required to register for our lessons with a partner. We rotate partners frequently during class so even if there are extra follows or leads, everyone will get plenty of opportunity do dance. There are a couple of exceptions:

• For most partner dances, we try to keep the lead/follow ratios close to balanced to ensure the best possible lesson experience. If there are more extra leads or follows that is reasonable for the class size, we will close registration to the respective role. We may re-open registrations if the class becomes more balanced.
• In some cases, a class may require that you work with the same partner such as some aerials or routine classes where we may not rotate partners. In these exceptional cases, a partner may be required. We will try and match single dancers up with other dancers looking for partners but we can not guarantee that we will match you up.

Trial/Sample Lessons

• Can I try the first lesson and see if I like it before registering?
• Do you offer lessons that I could try first before registering for lessons?
• Can I come watch a lesson before I decide to register?

Because we try to keep our classes small, costs low and provide the best possible learning environment, we only allow registered participants in our classes. We try to offer inexpensive introductory learning opportunities for new swing dancers to try. We are also happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the material, levels, etc. to help you decide if our classes are right for you.

If you are new to swing dancing and want to get a sample of what we teach, watch for drop-in lessons or beginner workshops.

Multiple Classes

• Can I register for more than one class or workshop?
• Is there a discount if I take more than one class?

If you are confident and comfortable with swing dancing, you are welcome to register for more than one class or workshop. Sometimes we offer discounts for multiple classes. See individual class descriptions for multiple class discounts and conditions.

Early Registration/Payment

• Can I register in advance?
• Is there a discount for early registration?
• Do I need to register/pay in advance?

Most classes offer on-line registration. To secure your spot, just complete the registration details for you and optionally your partner. Select the classes you wish to register for and submit payment either by mailing us a cheque (payable to David Hall) or paying by credit card through PayPal. Payment should be received prior to the advance registration deadline (see lesson description) and within 10 days of registration.

Sometimes advance registration is required. See individual class/workshop descriptions.

Usually we try and offer a discount for early registration and payment

Late Registration

• I missed the advance registration for a class, can I still register at the door?
• I missed the first class, can I still register?

If space is available, we will permit registration at the door. Spots are available on a first-come basis so we can not guarantee a spot if you don't register in advance.

Sometimes late registration is permitted up to the start of the second class (space permitting) for progressive classes and workshops. Contact us for more information.

New Dancers

I've never danced before, what lessons do you offer?

Lessons identified as "beginner" or "introduction to ..." are intended for new dancers to a particular dance style. In these lessons, we'll teach the essential skills to get you out on the dance floor with confidence.

Experienced Dancers and Levels

• I've learned swing dancing with another group or in another city, what level lessons should I take?
• I've been dancing for x years, what's my level?
• I've done done ballroom/country/salsa/other dancing at an intermediate/advanced level, should I take swing dancing at the same level?
• I used to dance but stopped. I'd now like to return, what classes should I take?

Unlike some other dance styles, there is no standarized criteria for levels in swing dancing. Prequisite criteria is likely different and even varies from school to school. Our levels are based on how moves are executed, and the difficulty of those moves.

As our class levels increase, the pace of the class, the difficulty of the moves and level of detail we cover increases. We try to identify prerequisite skills for particular classes to help self-evaluate. Don't be afraid to take a class at a lower level if you're unsure about a pre-requisite.

If you've done some other dancing, that's great, many concepts are transferrable! Each different dance style emphasizes different concepts. For example, something taught at a beginner level in one dance style may not be taught until the advanced level in another dance style. We'd suggest that you start with swing dancing lessons at a slightly lower level than you would take with your other partner dance styles. If you've done other non-partner dancing, we'd recommend taking a beginner level swing dance class since that is where we introduce lead-follow and partnering concepts.

If you haven't been swing dancing for a long time and want get back into it, we suggest taking a beginner or beginner-intermediate class. Usually it will come back pretty quick however what we teach and how we teach it is always changing and improving so there may have some catching up if you've been away from swing dancing for a while.

Prerequisites

• Can I register for a class if I don't have a prerequisite?
• Do I need to take a prerequisite class first?
• Can I take a prerequisite class concurrent?

See individual class or workshop descriptions for prerequisites. Some lessons build on material we've previously taught and we require a specific prerequisite or equivalent skill. Other times, we may recommend a prerequisite. These are in place to ensure you have the best lesson experience we can offer. Normally, you should complete the prerequisite material before registering for a class.

Don't be afraid to take a class at a lower level. In our smaller classes, we are able to offer extra tips and advice for students who are having an easier time with the lesson material.

Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding specific prerequisites.

Classes, Workshops, Drop-In Lessons and Private Lessons

• What kind of lessons do you offer?

Generally we will offer 3 different types of lessons:

Drop-In Lessons

Drop-in lessons are non-progressive lessons that you can take in any sequence. Material in each lesson is independent of material taught in other lessons. Typically drop-in lessons will cover beginner/introductory material or special topics that can be covered in one short lesson.

Workshops

Workshops are a bit more intensive learning opportunity covering a lot of material in a short time. Workshops are usually anywhere from 2 to 8 or more hours of instruction over one or two days. Workshops may feature both local and visiting guest instructors. When possible, there will be an opportunity to video tape a summary of the lesson material for your personal use.

Classes (aka lesson series or class series)

These are a progressive series of one hour lessons, usually once per week for a number of weeks. Each lesson builds on material covered in the previous week. Usually a class will start out with a brief review of the previous weeks material. It is recommended that students review and/or practice between lessons. Students are expected to attend all classes or make arrangements with the instructor to catch up on missed material.

Private Lessons

Private lessons are great for individuals, couples or groups (up to 4 people) that want to work on specific topics not covered in workshops and classes or would like some extra, individual attention. Read more about private lessons.

Lesson Plans

• Do you have an outline of what will be taught in a class or lesson?
• Can I get a list of the moves taught in a class?

Our lessons are usually planned around teaching themes and concepts. We will always identify the dance style and theme or concepts covered in lesson descriptions. Usually we don't publish a specific lesson plan in advance of a class since we often adjust the material during class to fit the group we are teaching. You can always contact us if you would like more information about a particular class.

When possible, we will e-mail a summary of the moves, concepts, choreography and music to the primary registrants after class series or workshops. If you were registered and didn't or can't receive the e-mail, please contact us.

Dance Styles

• What dances do you teach?
• Is swing dancing the same as ballroom dancing?
• What is swing dancing?

Swing dancing is not a dance style but a term for a collection of several related dance styles. Our central dance style is Lindy Hop. We teach Lindy Hop and dance styles that influenced, were influenced by or were related to Lindy Hop. Read more about our dance styles. We view swing dancing as a traditional, original American folk dance with a rich cultural history. An expressive, shared dance like Hip Hop is today.

While it is traditionally danced in a ballroom, swing dancing is not Ballroom Dancing. Ballroom Dancing refers to a different family of dance styles, including it's own versions of swing, latin and classically influenced dances. For more information from local Ballroom Dancing groups, visit our links page.

Shoes

• What kind of shoes should I wear?
• Do I need special "swing dancing" shoes?
• I have ballroom shoes, can I wear those?

In our classes, we recommend a pair of clean, non-marking shoes that are comfortable. Some cushioning either built-in or from an insole is helpful. Choose shoes that are either flat or have a low heel. For safety, avoid open toed shoes, sandals or flip flops.

You can try wearing shoes that you might wear at a dance but keep in mind that accidents can happen in class and your shoes may get marked up if they get stepped on.

Swing dancing or ballroom dancing shoes are fine but not necessary. You can find specialty shoes on-line, feel free to contact us if you'd like suggestions.

More on Shoes ...

• Should my shoes have suede, leather or rubber soles?

The material on your shoes really depends on what the floor is like and what kind of dancing your are going to do. Some dances such as Balboa and moves with slides work better if you have shoes that are fairly slick. Aerials and some tricks work better when your shoes have some grip. Slick shoes tend to highlight balance troubles. Grippy shoes tend to be harder on the knees

For most swing dancing, your have to figure out what you like best by trial and error. More experienced dancers often have a couple pair of shoes for different floor conditions.

Hard leather is generally the slickest material but is also the most consistent with different dance floors. Rubber tends to be really grippy on slow floors and provides little extra grip on highly waxed/polised floors. Suede is sort of in the middle, you can brush it to keep it clean for more grip or let it get a little dirty to be more slick.

Clothing for lessons

• What should I wear to lessons?

Lessons are pretty casual. Since swing can be a fairly athletic dance, we recommend something fairly comfortable for a physical activity where you may work up a sweat. Layers are good, the studio may seem cool at the start of class but will feel pretty warm by the end. For partnered dances, avoid tank-tops and similar open shoulder/back clothing.