strathspey@strathspey.org:44690

Wendy Grubb

Re: Beginners in with experienced dancers (formerly Teaching and guns)

March 13, 2006, 9:48 p.m. (Message 44690, in reply to message 44689)

In our class in New Orleans we often have new dancers
or we have dancers that do not come regularly.  Since
our class is more social in nature and many dancers
are not as interested in technique we adjust to having
beginners fairly easily.  I do find it frustrating
sometimes when I have to totally throw my lesson out
if I have too many beginners and not my usual group of
more experienced dancers.  I have found our group
welcoming and frequently (although I review the steps)
I tell the newcomers just to get where they need to be
skipping or even walking and the rest will come later.
 Our goal is to have fun while learning and get some
exercise.  Since Katrina, when we restarted our class
in January we have been averaging 2 sets of dancers
each week - last week we had 18 which was great.  My
only wish is for regular attendance so we can move
forward more easily.  Some of my group only likes to
dance "old favorites" and some like to try new things.
 I try to have some of each.
Wendy