Thread: 'Student' jumping the gun a little :) Tactful answer? WWBD?

Student is in '' for the reason she isn't even one yet, not to disparage a current dancer. Just wanted to mention. :)

Received the enquiry below today. It is nice enough, but that last para makes me wince a little. SA's belly dance scene is WAY oversaturated with the take-2-classes-buy-the-belt-and-I-am-a-pro set anyway. Sadly, this sounds like another in the making- though totally innocently, I am certain. Just that I know most of the teachers here promote it- 6 mo of training at beginner level and they will be 'promoted' to the pro class just so there is another body there to bring in shows.

I suspicion she is not in my area anyhow, so I doubt she is really a potential student and am not that concerned with 'hooking' her for myself. However, I don't want to go around putting people off the art and killing folk's enthusiasm, let alone getting myself a reputation. I would like to answer tactfully and kindly. WWBD? Think the reply is ok? I suffer from being garralous, I know.

<letter>
Hi

I would like to start belly dancing as of next year. I have always found it very fascinating to watch and would like to give it a try.

<para asking about times, etc of beginner classes>

Please can you also explain to me how to become a good enough dancer to be able to dance at places like the dancers I have seen? How long does this take? I have never done belly dancing but think I am a fast learner.

Thank you

<reply>

Thanks for your enquiry.

<class stuff>

Alas, like any other dance form, the only way to get truly proficient and to a quality level is practice, hard work time and experience! Oh, and lots and lots of sweat :). Other dance training can be a great help, particularily with musicality and movement, but it still takes a while to master the subtleties of this particular art form and its unique and beautiful movements. A lot of people assume it is really easy until they take their first class- or rather, the morning afterwards! By then it is too late, though- they are hooked, and hubbies and boyfriends just have to learn to share a girl's time!

What a teacher counts as professional level will vary greatly, so I can only speak for myself. I personally am very, very strict about my performance company. I will not consider adding a dancer to my troupe without a minimum of 2/3 years experience at intermediate level, and passing my first 3 level assesment qualifications. They also have to match a certain proficiency level i.m.o and fit in well with my current team. I know it is a lot more then some teachers require, but it has contributed towards maintaining a high standard for our dancing, something I am very firm about. I have seen too many dancers with fantastic potential wasted by not taking the time to develop and grow in the art before taking that scary plunge into paid performance. I do encourage my other students and aspiring prormers to dance out for many community and festival events, as well as our annual year-end showcase in the meantime to help them develop and grow, and give them performance opportunities in less pressured situations.

So, again personally, I would look at at least 2 years worth of formal training before you begin to take that plunge, to give you the solid, firm technique grounding that helps make a fabulous dancer. It is fantastic that you are already planning in that direction, it is the best way to acheive your goals.

Wishing you all the best with your dance journey,

Amira.

I'd say the same, but make it much shorter. I think you're giving way too much information and explanation, it winds up sounding apologetic -- or, more accurately, like she's hit a hot button and you're using her inquiry as a chance to get on a soapbox.

I'd just use your last paragraph, plus add the info that student performance opportunities are available much sooner. I think that's encouraging.

See what I mean. The auto-witter feature is always engaged :) Thanks!

I agree with Lauren, your response is a little verbose. I would simplify & stress that it takes 2-3 years of consistent study to be ready for performing. Consistent study at a minimum= 4-6 hours a week in classes (preferrably with at least 2 different instructors), 5-10 hours a week for personal practice, plus an additional investment in private lessons/coaching & workshops in specialty topics.

Think of it this way -- if you were interested in taking up guitar lessons and wondered how long you'd be plucking along at 'twinkle twinkle little star' before you could actually play something that sounds like something... how would you want your instructor to respond? A vague 'anywhere from a year to five years, totally depends on your natural ability, how much you practice, what former musical training you have, and what standards you set for yourself' is frustrating but satisfactory.

Shorten your answer. You are telling her something she doesnt want to hear, two years to be a performer.
She wont be impressed with the other stuff.

I would give a much shorter answer. I might even draw a light comparison to an art that the general public respects, like ballet, so she gets the idea that it isn't going to happen overnight

So, I actually like your longer answer. You are letting her know that there are different qualifications for different teachers, why and although you do not allow pro dancing right away, you do give an opportunity to perform in more casual settings. If I heard only the two years, I would think that meant in all venues not just pro. Your response also lets her know your love of the art. I don't think there is a problem with your response.

Maybe just say a minimum of 2-3 years at 6-8 hours a week and attending extra seminars for pro.
6 months to 1 year for student shows? At least she will know there will be performance opportunities.
IMO the more student opportunities you give your students, the better performers they will be and the faster they will progress.(as a side note)