Do I need a partner?
Not at all. We teach both singles and couples. If you don’t come with a
partner your instructor will be your partner. At least half of our students take
lessons without a partner.
What do I wear for my lessons?
Comfortable clothing that allows you to move your arms and legs easily is best.
We ask that you do not wear jeans, shorts, or sweat pants. For footwear, a leather-soled
shoe will allow you to slide your feet on the dance floor. Sneakers and rubber-soled
shoes tend to stick and stop your movement.
What dances do you teach?
We teach all the Latin and smooth dances. Latin dances include salsa, mambo,
cha cha, samba, rumba, swing, meringue, hustle west coast swing, lindy, bolero,
paso doble, jive, rock and roll. The smooth dances include foxtrot, tango, waltz,
viennese waltz, quickstep, peabody.
What if I have never danced before? How difficult will I find it to
learn?
Learning will not be difficult. We are experienced at teaching everyone from
those with no dance background at all, to those who have had extensive previous
training. We have four different levels: beginner social (a simple foundation
geared to making you look smooth on the dance floor), intermediate social (which
includes style and technique with some showier moves), dancesport (a higher
level that includes more advanced technique and powerful movement, and performance
(includes learning solo dances to perform at studio showcases or competitions).
Do you teach hip hop?
We do not teach hip hop specifically, but free style dancing is offered.
What dances will I learn when I begin?
That’s up to you. We recommend that beginners start with swing, cha cha,
rumba, foxtrot, waltz, and tango. Learning these dances gives you an excellent
foundation for all the other dances. However, if you don’t want some of
these basic dances, we will teach you what you want to learn.
How many lessons will I need to learn to dance?
That depends on your dancing goal. Some people want to become excellent social
dancers. Others decide they would like to learn even more so they can join in
the fun of dance competitions. How many lessons you take is completely up to
you. Most of our students are so pleased with their progress they choose to
continue after completing their first group of lessons.
I’m afraid to embarrass myself learning to dance in front of other people.
Will I be in a dance class?
No. At Fred Astaire all lessons are private lessons. We design a dance program
specifically for you that suits your individual needs and ability.
What do the lessons cost?
That depends on how many lessons you decide to take. Everyone’s program
is worked out separately. We suggest you begin with our introductory special
of 2 half hour private lessons and one practice party for $30.00 per person.
What is a practice party?
A practice party is a party for our students held every other Friday evening
for the purpose of trying out the new steps being learned on the lessons. It’s
an opportunity to meet other students and work on steps without the pressure
of trying out new material for the first time in a public place. At our parties
we dim the lights, serve refreshments, and have a great time. Students have
the opportunity to dance socially with their instructors and with other students.
