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FAQ |
Please read through the list below to learn more about Destine Dance. If your question is not answered here or if reading this prompts another question, then please contact us.
Partners
Do I need to bring a partner?
No. When you do privates lessons, your teacher is your partner. When in a group class, everyone switches dance partners frequently while learning and there will be social practice. Thus, if there is a shortage and someone has to practice dance alone, then it will not be for long.
Can I dance with my partner only in group classes or at social events?
Yes, this is not uncommon. Just let the instructor of the group class know so that your desires can be accommodated. However, please give thought to dancing with others; it will help you learn much more quickly if you dance with different people. At social events, you may dance with whomever you wish.
Do I need to dance with people I am partnered with in group classes?
You will never be forced to dance with someone. You can opt to not dance for a period if you feel uncomfortable at that time. However, you also need to accept that people might choose to opt out of dancing with you. If that happens, then do not worry; partners are swapped frequently so you will never be 'stuck' with anyone. However, it is asked that you try to dance with anyone you are partnered with. Everyone is asked to be open and accepting of others in group class so that we can all learn together.
What do I do if there is someone or something making me feel uncomfortable?
This is an understandable situation. Something makes you feel uneasy, but you do not want to mention it in case you hurt someone's feelings. If there is something that you feel uncomfortable with, then you can message the management between class for them to deal with it prior to the next class.
Do I need to bring a partner?
No. When you do privates lessons, your teacher is your partner. When in a group class, everyone switches dance partners frequently while learning and there will be social practice. Thus, if there is a shortage and someone has to practice dance alone, then it will not be for long.
Can I dance with my partner only in group classes or at social events?
Yes, this is not uncommon. Just let the instructor of the group class know so that your desires can be accommodated. However, please give thought to dancing with others; it will help you learn much more quickly if you dance with different people. At social events, you may dance with whomever you wish.
Do I need to dance with people I am partnered with in group classes?
You will never be forced to dance with someone. You can opt to not dance for a period if you feel uncomfortable at that time. However, you also need to accept that people might choose to opt out of dancing with you. If that happens, then do not worry; partners are swapped frequently so you will never be 'stuck' with anyone. However, it is asked that you try to dance with anyone you are partnered with. Everyone is asked to be open and accepting of others in group class so that we can all learn together.
What do I do if there is someone or something making me feel uncomfortable?
This is an understandable situation. Something makes you feel uneasy, but you do not want to mention it in case you hurt someone's feelings. If there is something that you feel uncomfortable with, then you can message the management between class for them to deal with it prior to the next class.
Learning dance
I have never danced and don't have any rhythm: is this still for me?
There will be a focus on your needs so no matter your level, we will get you dancing.
How well will I be able to dance?
The focus at Destine Dance is on getting you to a stage that you can attend a social dance event and dance. We will ensure that you will be able to dance socially. Probably not win a dance sport competition, but if people ask you if you can dance salsa, then you can answer 'Yes!' If you then choose to keep taking classes, then you will only get better.
How long will it take until I can dance?
Take a look at the page dedicated to this exact question: Learning to Dance - Step by Step
What’s best private lessons or group lessons?
Private lessons will always accelerate your learning more than any other type of lesson. However, group lessons can reveal things that you did not know were issues when you dance with others. You sometimes find that a different instructor will say things in a manner that compliments your private teacher. Also, it can help to share you learning experiences with others to get more insights. That being said, as a general rule, you can expect to learn 4 times faster in a private lesson.
Also remember, that group classes will give you more social interaction than privates.
Basically, it’s good to do both. If you sign up for privates, then your group lessons are free anyway.
What can I bring to the classes?
Ideally you want to wear clothes you feel comfortable moving in.
Shoes that are easy to move in are good too. You are likely a beginner so function and comfort are key. If you happen to have dance shoes, then perfect. Otherwise, regular office shoes are fine for men or even runners. Women usually dance in heels so it is wise to wear these so you’re learn in the shoes you will dance in. However, do not wear heels that do not feel comfortable because they are too high - safety is most important. A good guide is 6cm or around 2.5inches to start with. Also, opt for lighter shoes - boots will be tricky.
If you feel you might work up a sweat, then it is considered polite to bring a towel to dry yourself with.
Finally, bring a sense of fun and a desire to have fun while learning.
I have never danced and don't have any rhythm: is this still for me?
There will be a focus on your needs so no matter your level, we will get you dancing.
How well will I be able to dance?
The focus at Destine Dance is on getting you to a stage that you can attend a social dance event and dance. We will ensure that you will be able to dance socially. Probably not win a dance sport competition, but if people ask you if you can dance salsa, then you can answer 'Yes!' If you then choose to keep taking classes, then you will only get better.
How long will it take until I can dance?
Take a look at the page dedicated to this exact question: Learning to Dance - Step by Step
What’s best private lessons or group lessons?
Private lessons will always accelerate your learning more than any other type of lesson. However, group lessons can reveal things that you did not know were issues when you dance with others. You sometimes find that a different instructor will say things in a manner that compliments your private teacher. Also, it can help to share you learning experiences with others to get more insights. That being said, as a general rule, you can expect to learn 4 times faster in a private lesson.
Also remember, that group classes will give you more social interaction than privates.
Basically, it’s good to do both. If you sign up for privates, then your group lessons are free anyway.
What can I bring to the classes?
Ideally you want to wear clothes you feel comfortable moving in.
Shoes that are easy to move in are good too. You are likely a beginner so function and comfort are key. If you happen to have dance shoes, then perfect. Otherwise, regular office shoes are fine for men or even runners. Women usually dance in heels so it is wise to wear these so you’re learn in the shoes you will dance in. However, do not wear heels that do not feel comfortable because they are too high - safety is most important. A good guide is 6cm or around 2.5inches to start with. Also, opt for lighter shoes - boots will be tricky.
If you feel you might work up a sweat, then it is considered polite to bring a towel to dry yourself with.
Finally, bring a sense of fun and a desire to have fun while learning.
Learning at Destine Dance
What kind of dance do you teach; is it proper dance?
Even though we teach 5 types of dance, these dances can be separated into 2 larger groups: standardised and vernacular.
The first group is made of those dances that have a global body providing guidelines on how they are danced. In Australia, the organisation that keeps the nation aligned with those guidelines is the Australian Dancing Society and Destine Dance is a member.
The second group are those dances that are essentially understood and danced consistently from place to place, but can be tuned to local culture and continue to evolve. In this instance the teachers of Destine Dance immerse themselves in studying the latest trends to ensure you are taught what is danced by others and to show respect for the originators of the dance.
How good are the teachers?
The owner and manager of Destine Dance, Clint Steele:
· has been dancing for 10 years
· has worked as an educator for 20 years
· has written on the topic of dance and how is it learned
· has danced socially and studied in Australia, Japan, the US and China
· is a registered member of the Australian Dancing Society
Clint knows what makes dance work and how different people learn differently. This insight is shared with all who teach at Destine Dance and we can help you in different ways to become a better dancer.
The key to being a good teacher is knowing how to dance and how to teach. There is no such thing as a good teacher or a good student; only a good student teacher combination. Because we strive to understand your learning style, you will have a teacher matched to you.
Can I get a refund on pre-purchased classes?
Under Australian law, a refund is not legally required if you have changed your mind. However, it is if the service provided does not meet the expectations communicated. This is why we have the risk-free lesson to ensure you know what we offer before you buy. However, if you feel the service is not as promised, then we can organise a refund after discussion. If you have simply changed your mind or your situation has changed, then we can offer a refund with a cancellation fee. This fee is $80, which is the cost of one private that we will likely not fill while allocating another student to the respective teacher.
Can I cancel a lesson?
If you are doing a course, then you are unable to cancel a lesson and you miss that lesson if you do not make it. Privates need a 48 hour notice to allow time to fill the slot with another student and maybe find another time that works for you so that the pace of lessons is unbroken. If the notice given is less that 48 hours, then you might lose your lesson.
Can I go to a group lesson if I did not go to a private lesson that week?
As long as you have paid for private lessons in advance, you may attend the group classes as well. You are of course expected to attend your private lessons within a reasonable period if you are still attending the group lessons.
How often do I need to attend private lessons if I have bought them?
You may attend them as frequently or infrequently as you like. However, if you do not attend on a weekly basis, then the times available will be those that are less popular so that the majority of students can be properly serviced.
What if I can't make all the group lessons that come with being a private student?
Very few people can make all the classes. We have them at a variety of times so that there will hopefully be at least one you can attend. We can only guarantee that you can attend them if you are available; we can't promise that they will all be at times that suit your schedule.
What if I miss a lesson within a course?
You can usually make up what was missed at the next class. Missing two in a row can be challenging though.
Do I need to learn the 'womens' steps if I am a woman and the 'mens' if I am a man?
Normally, gentlemen learn the lead steps and ladies learn the follow steps. If you would rather learn the opposite or both, then that's fine. Just let your teacher know what you want.
In group classes, let the instructor know so that there is an understanding of the numbers and who is wanting to do what. Also, if you are wanting to learn both, then you will need to ask if your partner is happy to swap part way through a rotation of partners.
By being understanding of what everyone want, we can find a way for you to learn what you want to learn.
Can I use what I learn to dance in other places?
There are 2 things we do at Destine Dance that will ensure you can just about anywhere. We teach a variety of dances and we teach you how to identify what can be danced to what music. With these 2 skills yourself, you will be able to work out what you can dance given the music playing.
What kind of dance do you teach; is it proper dance?
Even though we teach 5 types of dance, these dances can be separated into 2 larger groups: standardised and vernacular.
The first group is made of those dances that have a global body providing guidelines on how they are danced. In Australia, the organisation that keeps the nation aligned with those guidelines is the Australian Dancing Society and Destine Dance is a member.
The second group are those dances that are essentially understood and danced consistently from place to place, but can be tuned to local culture and continue to evolve. In this instance the teachers of Destine Dance immerse themselves in studying the latest trends to ensure you are taught what is danced by others and to show respect for the originators of the dance.
How good are the teachers?
The owner and manager of Destine Dance, Clint Steele:
· has been dancing for 10 years
· has worked as an educator for 20 years
· has written on the topic of dance and how is it learned
· has danced socially and studied in Australia, Japan, the US and China
· is a registered member of the Australian Dancing Society
Clint knows what makes dance work and how different people learn differently. This insight is shared with all who teach at Destine Dance and we can help you in different ways to become a better dancer.
The key to being a good teacher is knowing how to dance and how to teach. There is no such thing as a good teacher or a good student; only a good student teacher combination. Because we strive to understand your learning style, you will have a teacher matched to you.
Can I get a refund on pre-purchased classes?
Under Australian law, a refund is not legally required if you have changed your mind. However, it is if the service provided does not meet the expectations communicated. This is why we have the risk-free lesson to ensure you know what we offer before you buy. However, if you feel the service is not as promised, then we can organise a refund after discussion. If you have simply changed your mind or your situation has changed, then we can offer a refund with a cancellation fee. This fee is $80, which is the cost of one private that we will likely not fill while allocating another student to the respective teacher.
Can I cancel a lesson?
If you are doing a course, then you are unable to cancel a lesson and you miss that lesson if you do not make it. Privates need a 48 hour notice to allow time to fill the slot with another student and maybe find another time that works for you so that the pace of lessons is unbroken. If the notice given is less that 48 hours, then you might lose your lesson.
Can I go to a group lesson if I did not go to a private lesson that week?
As long as you have paid for private lessons in advance, you may attend the group classes as well. You are of course expected to attend your private lessons within a reasonable period if you are still attending the group lessons.
How often do I need to attend private lessons if I have bought them?
You may attend them as frequently or infrequently as you like. However, if you do not attend on a weekly basis, then the times available will be those that are less popular so that the majority of students can be properly serviced.
What if I can't make all the group lessons that come with being a private student?
Very few people can make all the classes. We have them at a variety of times so that there will hopefully be at least one you can attend. We can only guarantee that you can attend them if you are available; we can't promise that they will all be at times that suit your schedule.
What if I miss a lesson within a course?
You can usually make up what was missed at the next class. Missing two in a row can be challenging though.
Do I need to learn the 'womens' steps if I am a woman and the 'mens' if I am a man?
Normally, gentlemen learn the lead steps and ladies learn the follow steps. If you would rather learn the opposite or both, then that's fine. Just let your teacher know what you want.
In group classes, let the instructor know so that there is an understanding of the numbers and who is wanting to do what. Also, if you are wanting to learn both, then you will need to ask if your partner is happy to swap part way through a rotation of partners.
By being understanding of what everyone want, we can find a way for you to learn what you want to learn.
Can I use what I learn to dance in other places?
There are 2 things we do at Destine Dance that will ensure you can just about anywhere. We teach a variety of dances and we teach you how to identify what can be danced to what music. With these 2 skills yourself, you will be able to work out what you can dance given the music playing.
The Studio
What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?
Destine Dance is near a train station (Elsternwick), a tram stop (47 on route 67) and a bus (Elsternwick stop ID 5938) so if you use public transport, then you are well served. However, if you are driving, then there are plenty of free car parks around the area available for the duration of a lesson.
Will I get to practice what I learn or is the studio focused on only learning?
Destine Dance runs regular social events, comp nights and practice sessions. You will have ample opportunity to apply what we have taught you. Also, we keep everyone up-to-date on social events around Melbourne. You will also have the chance to go to other social dance events with people you know so you can dance in other places as well.
Will I be able to practice at the studio in my own time?
We are always happy to see you at the studio practicing, and we encourage this. Come in alone or even come in with some friends to practice together. There are 2 distinct dance floors so you will normally be able to find space for what you want to do. All we ask is that you be mindful of others using the dance floor at the same time.
What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?
Destine Dance is near a train station (Elsternwick), a tram stop (47 on route 67) and a bus (Elsternwick stop ID 5938) so if you use public transport, then you are well served. However, if you are driving, then there are plenty of free car parks around the area available for the duration of a lesson.
Will I get to practice what I learn or is the studio focused on only learning?
Destine Dance runs regular social events, comp nights and practice sessions. You will have ample opportunity to apply what we have taught you. Also, we keep everyone up-to-date on social events around Melbourne. You will also have the chance to go to other social dance events with people you know so you can dance in other places as well.
Will I be able to practice at the studio in my own time?
We are always happy to see you at the studio practicing, and we encourage this. Come in alone or even come in with some friends to practice together. There are 2 distinct dance floors so you will normally be able to find space for what you want to do. All we ask is that you be mindful of others using the dance floor at the same time.
The People
What age bracket are you students in?
We have taught as young as 12 and as old as 80. The average can vary from class to class, but there is usually a mix. Regardless, we are all there to learn to dance.
Is this a good way to meet people?
If you go to our group classes, then you will meet people. If you only go to privates, but go to social dance events at other places, then you will also meet people.
What attitude to the other students have?
For some reason, dancers are just nice people. And Destine Dance puts a focus on a relaxed environment that encourages learning and good dancing. That means everyone is in a good mood and very welcoming.
What age bracket are you students in?
We have taught as young as 12 and as old as 80. The average can vary from class to class, but there is usually a mix. Regardless, we are all there to learn to dance.
Is this a good way to meet people?
If you go to our group classes, then you will meet people. If you only go to privates, but go to social dance events at other places, then you will also meet people.
What attitude to the other students have?
For some reason, dancers are just nice people. And Destine Dance puts a focus on a relaxed environment that encourages learning and good dancing. That means everyone is in a good mood and very welcoming.
Yes! I want to learn to dance.
Take a look at the dance lessons options to see how you can start your journey into the world of social dancing.