Frequently Asked Questions Do I need a partner to start? What should I wear to my first lesson? Do I have to be a dancer already to learn partner dancing? How can I get started? What is the difference between private lessons and group classes? Do you offer Smooth and/or Standard? Do you offer dance socials or practice parties? How long does it take to gain the skill? Where can I use this skill once I have it? Which dances would be most useful to learn? What is the age range of the student body? 1. Do I need a partner to start? No! A partner is never necessary. In fact, you will often learn faster on your own. Private lessons allow you to partner with a professional, encouraging rapid development of proper technique. Alone, the instructor’s attention is focused entirely on you. The value of beginning with a partner allows you the opportunity to practice and review material at any time. 2. What should I wear to my first lesson? Comfort should be your first priority. When selecting shoes, look for a pair in your wardrobe that offer good support and will allow you to slide on the floor (leather soled shoes are ideal). Ladies might want to consider something with a bit of a heel. 3. Do I have to be a dancer already to learn partner dancing? Absolutely not! In fact, partner dance is often called "social dance" because it’s geared more toward moving comfort and finesse in social environments than the "performing" most often associated with other forms of dance. If you have a heartbeat, you have rhythm! All you need is a qualified instructor, well trained in teaching beginners to identify the different rhythms existing within the music. (It’s easier than you think). At Come Dance With Us, our instructors specialize in this process; every day we teach people how to partner dance who never thought they could. Of course everything has its place: if you are an aspiring dance phenomenon, there are plenty of opportunities for performing experiences as well. 4. How can I get started? It’s easy. Simply call Come Dance With Us at (719) 597-4451 to schedule an introductory half hour private lesson, or come in for one of our beginning group classes. Check our introductory offer for more information. 5. What is the difference between private lessons and group classes? Private lessons give you the most for your minute, as they are a one-on-one with an instructor customized to suit your own pace and goals. They are also far easier to manage for students with hectic schedules. If your budget is limited, group classes are a more affordable option. They are also ideal for those seeking a more social learning experience. 6. Do you offer Smooth and/or Standard? Yes, of course! Our staff are highly qualified Smooth AND Standard competing professionals. For those interested in private instruction, we encourage you to call for more specific information and availability. 7. Do you offer dance socials or practice parties? Absolutely! Join us the first Saturday of every month for music, dancing, and possibly a showcase. Check out our Saturday Night Dances for more information. Additionally, the CDWU staff and students like to hit the Springs dance hotspots, so call the studio to find out when our next "Night Out" is scheduled. 8. How long does it take to gain the skill? The answer to this question varies with each individual. The beauty of our introductory offer (two 1/2 hour private lessons and one group class for $25) is the accompanying dance evaluation and consultation. This allows us to assess your background and get a clearer understanding of your goals so that we can structure a program that will allow you to gain the skills you want at your own pace. Better yet, much like learning to ride a bike, once you have this skill, you have it for life and can enjoy it well into your senior years. 9. Where can I use this skill once I have it? A better question would be: "Where can’t I use this skill?" Unlike seasonal sports, you can go partner dancing almost every night of the week, in nightclubs, black-tie functions, weddings, private parties and local hot spots. From the Latin Quarters to the elegance of the Broadmoor's main ballroom, the possibilities are endless. 10. Which dances would be most useful to learn? During your initial interview (check out our introductory offer), we will help you determine which dances are most practical for you based on your specific goals, needs and musical tastes. 11. What is the age range of the student body? Most of our students are between the ages of seventeen and sixty, but no one is too young or too old to get started. This sport is truly universal in accessibility and enjoys a greater longevity than most others. Still have questions or concerns? Please do not hesitate to contact the studio. We would love to hear from you!