Partner Dance - The Logic in the Art

     I was a wall flower at school dances. If not for my miss guided self consciousness, I would have tried to dance with "that" girl. I never did get that dance but post high school I fell into a country two-step class. 

     The class was taught by a "that" girl. I felt awkward while I stomped around with different partners in the class. In the end I apologized more than I wowed. Despite my lack luster performance, I did learn something.

     Partner dancing, like country two-step, country swing, salsa and many other social partner dances, is as logical as it is artistic. Dancing with a partner, whether its country swing at your local country bar or death drops on dancing with the stars, follow the same basic structure ( as may have figured out the instructor was very qualified ). That understanding lit a fire in mind. That fire gave me the confidence I needed to pursue social partner dancing. First as a student, then an instructor, and eventually owning my own studio.

     I've seen the same apprehension I had on the faces of thousands of students over the last 17 years of teaching. I've also seen the sparks of revelation as the same students see the logic in this art.

     Country swing, country two-step, salsa, night club two-step, and even Argentine tango can be learned by anyone. Find a good teacher, keep and own mind, and go out dancing often.

Country Dancing at Bourbon Jack's Bar and Grill in Chandler, Arizona

A crowded tiny dance floor and a really great live band are what I expect every time we go Country dancing at Bourbon Jack's in Chandler, AZ. This time was no exception. I've come to embrace the crowded dance floor and how to make my way around it. After decades of social dancing in Arizona, I've found it is rare to find one that is not full of dancers. You have to develop your craft so as to not be a menace to your partner or other dancers. Once you've done that, you will find a new level of appreciation, not to mention safety, for these packed dance halls.

The band this time was Rebel something or other, I wish I could remember their name. They are the real deal. A great band can make all the difference. It feels like your part of their ensemble as you and your partner move to percussion precision. I think some people forget that dancing is an art form. It is creative expression, human connection, and mood elevation all at the same time. Any level of dancer can experience these benefits, but the more you hone your skills the better. Your partner will thank you and so will your dancing neighbors.

For those dancers interested in the knowledge necessary to become confident and comfortable on any dance floor, I have a formula proven to work: private Country dance lessons, Two Step and Swing group dance classes and lots and lots of real world dance experience. My students typically follow this format and see actual results. Some students do fewer private lessons than others, and some do group classes only, but what they all have in common is real world experience. There is no supplement for it, so get out there early and often if you want to be successful at the next Country bar you stumble upon.