Often times we see pieces and wonder what sets them apart from others. What gives them that magical, slight edge of polished nuance compared to others? I often harp on the notion with my dancers that it really is not …
When we teach young dancers and they are starting to execute movement, often times the comprehension of that somatic initiation and execution takes a while to sink in. We all have had dancers who can replicate a piece of choreography …
Our dance students look to us as the beacon of creativity. Particularly at the start of a new year, dancers await the delivery of new pieces, concepts, movement and music. It is a very exciting time of the year for …
As we wind down from recital season, we have also reached that point when it’s time to say goodbye to graduating students. Our beloved senior dancers, who many of us have trained since they were little, now stand before us …
Remember when you were little and would twirl and spin just because it was fun? Remember those first pair of ballet slippers and the excitement of being in dance class following your teacher in the front of the room? Remember …
Teachers! If you’re excited at the thought of introducing improvisation to your dancers, here are three popular exercises to get you started with beginners at any age! Each can be adapted to age/level and will get dancers exploring the space …
I have a new rule in class- you are not allowed to bring in your phones to video a rehearsal while learning choreography. This hasn’t always been the case, in fact videoing is in fact quite helpful (for myself included) …
At different points in a choreographer’s career, one discovers how they create best; what works for them and what doesn’t; in terms of the creative process. When one is just starting out, the ways in which we use trial and …
Dance Teachers, have you ever experienced this? Dancer eagerly asking, “Can we add on now?” “When are we adding on?” “Do we have to do technique today? Can we just get to the dance?” Or, “I think I’d like to …
Let’s be honest. Who doesn’t like to win? Nobody goes into a competitive situation and says, "Come to think of it, I'd actually like to lose." As a teacher, I love to see my dancers excel. There's no greater feeling …
In a crazy, crazy world, we dance teachers 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 are running smoothly, etc. There is …
Ever think of what you can do to enhance the learning curve in your dance class? While dancers are often taught “how” sometimes we forget the “why’s,” “when’s,” and “where’s” things came from and happened….
As we approach spring, now is a great time to think about decking the halls once more…this time with a fresh facelift to welcome the change of season and breathe some new air into the studio. While cost for any …
Competition weekends are always filled with adrenaline, focus, organized chaos, last minute preparations and camaraderie which holds a studio together to represent themselves in their best light and dance their hearts out. I mean, this is it…Show-time baby!
I get it. You lay out lots of money for competition fees in the hopes of taking your dancers to an event where they will not only get the chance to perform, but also receive valuable, helpful, thoughtful and objective …
The task of music selection year after year can be a daunting one, especially for those of us teaching multiple classes. We aim to be creative, fresh, innovative and contemporary, but the truth is, many struggle to deliver original and …
