FADS - Getting Started

SO HOW DO I START?

Actually the hardest part about learning to dance is the initial decision to come in and start lessons. It seems that most people have many unanswered questions or impressions over what it's all about, so let me explain...

There are three types of lessons offered at the Studio:

PRIVATE:
Private lessons are as the name implies, one on one training with an instructor. You will dance with the instructor during the lesson. Private lessons provide high quality training and enable the student to enjoy the fastest learning curve. Private lessons must be booked in advance with the receptionist or instructor. Private lessons are scheduled in forty-five minute increments and require a twenty four hour notice prior to cancellation. Our instructors are very flexible and will try their best to give you the time you need.

GROUP LESSONS:
Group lessons are designed to be a supplement, not a replacement for private lessons. In a group lesson an instructor will address a group of three or more students on a few different dance concepts or patterns. This format is great for working on balance and partnering as students will periodically switch partners. This format is also an economical way to reinforce concepts taught on the private lesson and a great way to meet friends that have the same interests. Group classes are generally offered twice a week as they appear on the monthly calendar. It is strongly encouraged to have at least a few introductory classes before jumping into a group class, as we want you to feel comfortable and get the most our of your time here.

THE DANCES
At Fred Astaire we teach partnership dancing that is anything that can be done with a partner. While we do focus on the American Style, International and Latin is available as well. Within the American Style, we offer the Smooth dances such as: Foxtrot, Waltz, Viennese Waltz, and Tango, as well as the Rhythm dances such as: East Coast Swing, Bolero, Mambo, Rumba, and Cha-Cha. We also teach some of the trendier dances such as West Coast Swing, Merengue, Hustle, and Salsa. Your instructor will help you decide which dances would be best for you and your goals.

AND PRACTICE?
The best thing to do is attend one of our Friday night practice sessions as denoted on our monthly calendar. Our practice sessions are from 8:15 to 9:45 and have a party-like atmosphere with fun music and light refreshments. This is the best way to apply what you are learning through out the week in a controlled environment with other students like you! Teachers will be there to dance with you and introduce you to others.

THE NEXT STEP
Call us at 732-741-4188 or e-mail any questions, or just come in and see our studio. We are open 1PM to 10pm Monday through Friday. Weekends available by appointment only depending on the teachers’ availability.