Frequently Asked Questions

Yes.  Dancing is muscle memory, just like any sport or activity where you do the same thing over and over to train your muscles to give the desired response.  Think typing, golf, tennis, driving a manual transmission car, anything of that nature.  At Cherokee Rhythm and Smooth we combine new information with practice to build muscle memory so you can remember your patterns for a long time.

We do not require a partner for lessons.  In personal lessons you will dance with your instructor.  In group classes you will be matched up with another single or the instructor.  We do offer the opportunity to change partners during Group Classes and Practice Parties which will help everyone learn faster and get to know one another.  If you would feel more comfortable with a partner think outside the box.  A dance partner could be a good friend, a relative, a co-worker  etc.  We sometimes have people on a waiting list for a dance partner, so call us and ask.

At CRS Dance we never require people to change partners.  We do, however, strongly encourage it.  Changing partners helps each person learn at a much faster pace.  Dancing with others helps take the focus off the other person and puts it on yourself, which is where it belongs.  Learning to lead or follow a variety of styles of dancer can only produce a more well rounded, accomplished student.  Dance is a social activity and once you learn to dance you will have many people ask you to do so, the earlier you put that fear behind you the more you will enjoy dancing.

It depends on your circumstances.  Are you learning for an event or just to learn?  Do you have a club or location you would like to use your dancing?  Do you have favorite music or artist you would like to learn to dance to?  If the answer to those questions is "No" I usually teach Rumba and Swing because they are common musical styles and you can use your dancing in a variety of places.  Most dances are easy to learn for beginners.  I would stay away from Viennese Waltz, West Coast Swing, Quick Step and Bolero to start off with.  The technique involved in those dances is usually more than a beginning dancer can master, they are easier to learn later on.

You can use our studio to practice during studio hours as long as there is room.  The most important thing you can do is to use the first 5-10 minutes after you get home to review your new patterns and technique.  Students who dedicate a few minutes each day to practice and review learn the fastest.

For your Group Classes and Personal Lessons wear comfortable clothes that are easy to move in.  Shoes with leather soles are the best option unless you are buying Dance Shoes.  Dance Shoes will make a huge difference in your dancing but are an investment.  For Practice Parties we ask that students come dressed in date night attire.  Please no torn clothing, visible underwear, questionable messages, etc.  We want everyone to have fun and enjoy themselves.  Ladies, if you are wearing a skirt or dress of any length, please wear dance pants.  If you need advice, don't hesitate to ask.

We can all relate to that.  Doing anything new for the first time can be frightening.  Our instructors strive to use clear, easy to understand methods during lessons.  Our students are very friendly and helpful.  The dance community is excited to see new people joining them and they have all been where you are, don't let shyness rob you of a hobby you can enjoy for the rest of your life.

On the Location page is a "Contact us" submission form.  Fill it out and I will answer any questions.  You can also call 678-918-2314.