Dance teachers, does the thought of incorporating improvisation into your classes intimidate you? While some have called it "free dance," "free movement," etc., the actual development and structure of an improvisation lesson is a lot more than turning on the …
The incorporation of a live accompanist, whether it be the classical pianist in ballet class or the sound of live drummers in modern or African class can change the dynamics of your studio curriculum. There is nothing more enlivening than …
Teaching over the long haul can be a drain, especially if you are teaching a lot of classes and are pushed to create. One of the toughest things teachers face throughout the season is to stay motivated and energized. You …
As we all know, modern dance is a genre which breaks traditional ideas, and at times does not synchronize with the traditional ballet foundation we are primarily aiming to instill within our students. In fact, until recently, modern dance was …
For many of us this is the time of year when are season is winding down and we are either immersed in the end of year performances or trying to recover from the pressures of producing choreography that makes our …
With the summer season quickly approaching, a lot of dance teachers and studio owners will be able to engage in a bit of down-time as recital and competition season comes to a close and before summer sessions commence. Before you …
Teaching Musical Theatre and Theatre Jazz is an animal in itself and there are many components to teaching it effectively; technically, stylistically, historically and conceptually. This genre is a real love of mine and where my heart is at, so …
OK, I'm just going to talk about it. We all know it's a topic we need to address and are sometimes to afraid to because it could be infringing on what is politically correct or appropriate to discuss with our …
How easy it is for dance teachers to undervalue themselves and we probably all do it at one time or another. When the daily grind of teaching starts to wear us down and the students just don't seem to be …
Teachers, have you ever sat down and thought about the importance of rules & procedure in the studio? It seems like a given, common sense, but often times, when we are not transparent about the expectations of our dancers in …
In a crazy, crazy world, especially at this time of year, as teachers, we often put ourselves and our needs last; trying to make sure work is completed, students' needs are being addressed, creativity is flowing, deadlines are met, rehearsals …
Part of being a well-rounded dancer is to have the ability to articulate observations and speak about dance just as much as executing steps properly. A rich, thorough dance curriculum includes one in which "dance literacy" is acknowledged; where dancers …
**_"Why stop dreaming when you wake up?"_ Walt Disney** What a terrific question by the man that turned his dreams constantly into reality. I am sure he had many moment of doubt. But he never let that stop him for …
Catch our new video exclusive with DTW faulty member and ballet teacher extraordinaire Matthew Donnell on his teaching philosophy and important advice for you and your students!
As dance teachers who spend countless hours with our students in the studio week after week and year after year, it's sometimes easy for the lines of the relationship to blur in terms of dance teacher to student vs. friend …
This time of year cleaning your choreography becomes a very important aspect of your classes. Major time will be spent on the cleaning process. With recitals, showcases, demonstrations and national competitions just around the corner, cleaning will be a critical …
