It is important to remember that everyone learns different things in different ways. The same applies to learning choreography. So if you feel that you are last one in the class to pick up the routine, or are having problems with a certain section that no one else seems to worry about, don’t despair!
Some people learn best if they are in front of mirror, others find it distracting. Some people need to physically do the move when they are being taught, others prefer to watch then do. Some people find it easier to be counted through the movement, others prefer to watch and copy.
There is no right or wrong way, but it will be much more easier for you if you are aware of the best way that you learn and pick things up. Here are some tips that may help.
1. If you have never done the style before, watch the class or a video of the class so you are aware of how you will be expected to move. It may take time to get used a certain style, but the more you go the better you will get.
2. Stand at the front or ensure you can see the teacher at all times so that you do not get taught second hand (i.e. by the people in front of you, who may make their own mistakes)
3. Try standing in different places during the class so that you get a fresh perspective.
4. Notice whether you learn better by watching or by throwing yourself into the moves – you will only find out if you try both.
5. If possible, ask the teacher for feedback so that you get their opinion on where you can improve. They may have noticed something about your dancing that you didn’t.
6. Watch the teacher’s feet. It sounds odd, but incorrect distribution of weight will effect how you perform the routine.
7. Counting the routine in your head will help with your timing. Don’t rely on the teacher to do it for you.
8. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure about something! Its likely that you’re not the only one who has that question.
9. Practice, practice, practice! When your body becomes used to moving a certain way, it will be easier to learn and pick up routine because it will remember the style even if you don’t.
10. Have fun! Its hard to learn if you are worried and stressed. Accept that you are about to have fun, and you will relax.
Hopefully these tips will help you to improve how you learn in a lesson, but if one doesn’t work for you, try another one. Remember, everyone absorbs things differently.
If you have any of your own tips on how you learn best, let us know and leave us comment!
Filed under: Dance - Self-Help, Inspired Motion Class Tip | Tagged: choreography, dance class, dance steps, dance teacher, how to dance, how to learn choreography, learning dance, learning movement, movement, performing in class, picking up steps
