Quote:
Originally posted by DavidB
Most people just wanted to learn one move after another, and the flashier the better. |
This is true unfortunately (mostly men). It is a constant battle to remind the men that more is not necessarily better. In a rush to learn as many moves as possible, a lot of men will not learn any of them properly, taking the time to explore the many possibilities each move offers. Women on the whole agree that they would rather have fewer moves better lead than a string of moves with little leading / technique.
Flashier and intricate do not always cut it either. The right pause at the right time will do much more to impress / please your partner than the Òaccordion comb pull crab recurringÒ...
Quote:
Originally posted by DavidB
But if you aspire to being an advanced dancer, you need to know more than moves. You need to understand how to dance, how to move, how to lead/follow etc. You need to understand the music. And you want it to look good. Style is all about how your dancing looks to other people. |
Agreed, though I do not like the term ÒadvancedÓ dancer. I reckon you never reach that stage, and if anyone feel they have, then they should look again. Dancing is a lifelong journey, and there is always more / better round the corner. Never rest on your laurels.
There is always something I want to improve / learn, and I know that Viktor and Lydiay work very hard at learning new techniques etc... That is what makes them such good dancers and teachers.
Quote:
Originally posted by DavidB
I think style workshops are a very good idea. Having someone say "I think this looks good. This is how you do it", or "This doesn't look good, so don't do it" can save you a lot of time. You will never dance like the teacher, but they will never dance like you. And it is worth it - you are on the way to being an advanced dancer, not just another intermediate dancer who knows a lot of moves. |
I totally agree, Style workshops (any workshops in fact) are the best way to improve. The Style workshop I teach is based on the original Style workshop initially taught by Viktor and Lydia + some style points taught by Janie Cronin. I have adapted it and spent time devising extra exercises to teach basic footwork variations, and style points to add to the Beginners move.
My reasoning being that the only way to learn (add) new style techniques is to practise them on a move that you are already familiar (and confident) with. Style is not all footwork though, you should be stylish from the moment you ask your partner for a dance to the end of the track when you thank her.
A lot of the workshop is dedicated to making dancers aware of what they do and how they can improve simple things to make a big difference, without the need for drops / seducers and intricate move combinations.
I am currently working on new Style workshops which will be much more specific and targeted, as I have found that one general ÒStyleÓ Workshop had just too much material to fit in one day! The first one, will be a
ÓSpins and turnsÒ workshop, which has to be one of the most asked about feature. I am hoping to offer this workshop in September.
I am also planning a
Òfootwork and walksÒ workshop to follow...
I have a few more ideas after that, but if anyone has any further suggestions, do not hesitate!
As mentionned in another thread, I am also in the process of booking a guest teacher for a couple of really good ÒStyleÓ workshops, so watch this space!
Cheers,
Franck.