Starting Ballet

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Taking ballet at the right studio is important. When you learn the first basics it is important to make sure what you are learning is correct. The best way to find out if it is a good studio is to see if anyone has come out of the studio successfully. Even if you do not plan to do ballet as a career, it's good to know that your teacher is teaching the correct technique. Most studios have a bulletin board of past performances and performers. Study it and see if the things displayed there show the type of thing you would enjoy doing. This stands true for finding a studio to do tap, jazz, or any other dance. I personally do not recommend starting a child when they are only three, but that is the decision of the parent. I feel the child does not learn very much at such a young age, but the lessons still cost money.

It is never too late to get involved with ballet. Dance is a wonderful hobby that can be enjoyed without becoming a professional.  I've had so many questions about women who are worried they are too old to start dancing. I say don't worry. If you feel uncomfortable because of your age, ask local studios about adult classes. Most have an adult beginner's ballet. If you are more advanced, don't hesitate to join the advanced class. The students are a little older and very willing to accept older dancers. My class has high school students as well as women in their twenties and thirties.

Don't be discouraged no matter what! You may feel behind the power curve, but if you really try and work hard, you will catch up. I started ballet relatively late and I felt behind. Now, I'm trying my hardest to learn tap. I'm in class with 10 year olds and I can't keep up. I know it can be discouraging, but hang in there. I promise the rewards are worth the effort.      As for registering, talk to the teacher about how many classes you should take each week. Normally, beginners start with one class a week, but different teachers require different amounts of dedication. Just talk to you teacher to find out his/her preferences. You may also want to take more than just ballet. It isn't unusual for a studio to offer ballet, tap, jazz, and gym. It all depends on your preferences.       Remember, dance should be fun, work hard, stay dedicated, and                              enjoy what you are doing!!

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