Have you noticed that your child enjoys dancing and putting on a show? If yes, it may be time to sign them up for dance classes. However, with many lessons to choose from, picking one they can commit to can be challenging. Here’s a brief guide to help you decide before enrolling them.

What Dance Style to Pursue and Why

Jazz

Jazz is a relatively new dance technique, emerging in the early 20th century. Its influence heavily stems from the music of its namesake, which is upbeat. To dance jazz is to show grand, energetic movements and go off-script.

Unlike with ballet, improvisation is encouraged in jazz, allowing your kid to express themselves and craft their trademark move. While a dance background isn’t required for this class, previous ballet experience can help with the skills and technique.

Ballet

Ballet is a dance style favored for its graceful, fluid movements. Learning it entails dedication and strict adherence to structure and form. The elaborateness of a ballet performance comes from memorizing the steps and patterns. Ballet lets your child develop their balance, flexibility, and stamina. It usually serves as the foundation for other dance styles, such as jazz and hip-hop, so your kid can venture out in the future.

Tap

Unlike ballet and jazz, tap dancing primarily focuses on rhythm instead of movements. Metal plates at the bottom of the shoes produce the characteristic tapping sound when clicked together. The dancer creates well-timed beats according to the accompanying music by clicking and sliding. For your kid to enjoy tap dancing, they must have a sense of rhythm.  

How to Choose the Right Class

It’s essential to ask your child what they want to do. Always put their interests first since they’ll be the ones attending lessons. Encourage them to watch videos or observe dance classes to know which may pique their curiosity and sustain their desire to learn.

Keep in mind, however, that dance classes can vary in costs, and there are other expenses to consider as well in the budget. Uniforms, specialty footwear, and performance costumes are typically required, so you must factor these in before committing.

Before signing up your kid for dance classes, take them to Music & Dance Academy to observe what happens during every session. This institution is one of the most respected dance schools in Tucson, AZ. Their instructors are highly trained in ballet, jazz, and tap and will help your little one find their passion. Call (520) 327-2303 for registration inquiries or check out the class schedule online.