gtman - if the choice is between doing your 26 move routine, or not dancing, then don't let anyone stop you. Just let your mind and your body get used to the moves. When you get more comfortable, then change the routine a bit. Once you can start changing the routine during a song - then you are doing freestyle...
It might not be the quickest way to learn how to freestyle, and it is not the way I'd recommend, but if it works for you then who cares!
Quote:
| Learn to vary them and change their timing to suit the phrases and accents in the music. |
Musical interpretation is an 'optional extra' in dancing. You don't
need to do it. 5 years ago no-one did it.
Having said that it is a very desirable skill to master, and can really make you stand out from the crowd. Unfortunately it is not as easy to learn as, for example, another move. Your dancing will get worse when you start trying it.
If you don't have confidence in your dancing to start with, it can really set you back. Get comfortable with the moves first, then worry about the music.