strathspey@strathspey.org:43911

0AM7L@SIA

Workshops

Jan. 28, 2006, 6:04 p.m. (Message 43911)

If folks don't _want_ out-of-towners to attend their workshops, then they
shouldn't promote them (over the Internet, by leaving flyers on tables at
other events, or by mailing them to other branches).  If they _do_ want to
accommodate non-locals, then remember that the non's haven't had months to
work on those 16-18 dances.

Pia was correct that you learn something from every teacher, and newer
dancers often need just that.  Some clearly aren't hearing what their own
teacher says--or may be ignoring it--but might take notice if a 'stranger'
mentions it.  

I believe 'everyone' thinks they are doing just what the teacher says, but a
look in a mirror might light a fire.  Or a third party--workshop
teacher--who doesn't have to fear losing that person because they correct
him or her.  

And BTW, I am not speaking of first-time dancers off the street. I would
never encourage anyone to attend a workshop who hasn't danced at least six
months.  It's not fair to the others--or themselves--to have rank amateurs
at workshops.  

As my better half so succinctly put it, "the purpose of a workshop shouldn't
be to learn a dance, it should be to learn how to dance WELL."

Margaret