Classes

Level

We teach mainly at Beginner and Improver level.  Beginner level is exactly what it says on the can and a full Beginner’s course usually takes about 10 weeks.  A reasonably competent dancer who has done a bit of practising outside the classes will hopefully be ready for Improver level after a full Beginner’s course.  How long you stay at Improver level depends on your ability and, like most other things in life, the amount of effort you put in.  With a lot of effort, a reasonably competent dancer might make the next level (Intermediate) in as little as 6 months, but 12 months or more would be more usual.  It’s worth noting that men tend to progress more slowly than ladies, as they have the extra tasks of memorising moves and leading the dance.  We can teach at Intermediate level, but don't run regular classes at that level.  We can and will point students in the direction of people who do.

Ability and Age

We cater for all abilities and an age range from 16 to 60+.  Many of our students’ previous experience of dancing is limited to weddings and parties and that isn’t a problem.  We can’t perform miracles and of course some people are better dancers than others, but it’s surprising what can be achieved in 10 weeks if you’re willing to put a little effort in, even if you have the proverbial two left feet.  Jeff was pretty much of a no hoper when he started and now he thinks he can dance, bless him!  The basic rule is that if you can walk, you can dance.

Sandy has been security checked to teach children, but this can only take place under arrangements for supervison that are satisfactory to all parties concerned.

Singles and Couples

Salsa is a partner dance and it’s nice if you can come with a partner, but it’s not essential.  We will rotate partners so that everyone gets a chance and so that students learn to cater for different styles and abilities.  It also makes the session more sociable and means that if one of a couple can’t make it or decides that it’s not for them, the other can still come along.  Ladies will nearly always be in the majority in Beginner classes and this means that they may have to sit out for short periods, although the rotation system should make sure that this isn’t for long.  Men, on the other hand, are likely to find themselves in demand!  Daytime classes may be composed entirely of ladies and in this case there will be more focus on footwork and less on partner work.  Interestingly, the more you progress the more the numbers even out – it seems that once men have taken the plunge, they’re more likely than women to keep it going.

We suggest that you bring a bottle of water or something similar with you to all classes, apart from the Golden Lion where drinks are avilable for purchase at the venue.  Avoid wearing shoes with a lot of grip, such as trainers, for any Salsa class.

If you are thinking of turning up then we suggest that you contact us or the organisation running the course in advance, as courses are run subject to attendance and dates may occasionally be cancelled due to other activities at the venue.