Requirements for the Introductory Class are a willingness to move, learn, and get out of your comfort zone! No dance experience is required to take this class!
Requirements to take the Level 2: Beginner Walk-In Classes is to effectively execute the Modern Country Swing basic.
Lead's Waistline Turn and Follow's Underarm Turn
Stay on a 3 count rhythm in either 1-Step or Quick-Quick-Slow rhythm.
Follow correct simple floor pattern (Lead travels to D, Follow travels to B)
Show basic stretch in the settle
Have a basic understanding of 1-step and Quick-Quick-Slow timing in the basic.
We recommend that students have taken the Level 1: Introductory Class 2-3 times.
The Requirement to take the Level 3: Novice Walk-In Classes is to have Level 3 petition test:
The petition process is designed to ensure that students have the adequate skills to succeed in the level 3 classes.
Passing the Petition Test is depended on skills demonstration, not class completion. Students who practice regularly, dance at socials, take private lessons, participate in competitions, and consistently attend multiple classes per week perform better in the Petition Test.
Completion of all Level 2 Classes is not required, but is recommended. Some students pass the petition after only a few Level 2 classes, other must complete it in full, or even repeat some classes.
You will be assessed by both a Lead Instructor and Follow Instructor during the petition, one of which will be your partner, the other will be an outside observer.
After the petition you will receive individual feedback for growth and improvement. Many students do not pass in their first attempt but do in their 2nd or 3rd attempt after improving based on this feedback.
You may only petition once every 2 weeks.
Some students are placed on Probation, allowing them to attend the level 3 class, but must return to re-take the Petition Bi-Weekly until they fully pass.
You petition will be assessed on the below expectations:
Accurately determine if a song is 1-Step or Quick-Quick-Slow appropriate.
Maintain the rhythm stepping on beat for 50% of the dance.
Explain the concept of Timing Integrity and maintain Integrity 50% of the dance, correcting integrity as necessary.
Generate leverage in the settle effectively and consistently with posting and loading techniques.
Demonstrate a proper rocking settle with full weight change, adequate body angling, and correct timing in both rhythms consistently.
Demonstrate American Leg action with rolling steps, and demonstration of opening and collection actions as appropriate.
Using effective turning technique and spotting.
Accurately demonstrates floor patterns.
Can find the beat of a song on their own within 32 counts.
Demonstrates basic changes in speed, and correct use of delayed weight change.
Demonstrate emphasis on major phrase changes.
Lead Specific Expectations:
Demonstration of multiple movement patterns beyond the basic.
Correct step timing variations for various movement patterns.
Ability to continuously dance.
Follow Specific Expectations:
Match the Lead’s Timing and Rhythm, including changes in speed.
Respond effectively to various patterns and cues using Body Following technique.
Basic use of stylization flourish un-prompted
Petitioning is free during our Saturday Dance Socials according to availability.
Students must wait at least 2 weeks between petition attempts.
Requirements to take the Level 4: Intermediate Walk-In Classes:
Can keep timing for 1-Step and QQS during the basic 100% of the time, and can return to integrity during their basic consistently.
Can demonstrate appropriate floor patterns for a variety of moves, including combinations of various elements before returning to the basic
Can demonstrate Novice level connection technique including loading methods, body leading, and body following techniques
Can demonstrate counter balance and proper settling timing and technique
Can demonstrate Novice level stepping technique including striking, grounding, delayed weight change, peeling
Can demonstrate Novice level footwork technique including turnout, beveling, tendu, ronde, slide, step, rock, and toe-heel, and heel-toe actions
Can demonstrate variations in leg action for musical and stylistic purposes
Can demonstrate basic mirroring and styling technique for their role
Can demonstrate consistent phrase change emphasis movements, and lyrical or accent emphasis.
Can add basic syncopations to at least 3 movement patterns including appropriate connection, delayed weight changes, timing integrity, and synchonization
Can execute a starter step appropriate for the rhythm of the dance (1-Step or QQS)
Can determine 1-Step and QQS timings effectively within 16 counts of a song and maintain that rhythm consistently through the dance
Can utilize various connection points and how alter body position and connection points for effective cuing, control of space, and control of speed
Can demonstrate basic Opportunity techniques in connection, speed, and space
Use Novice level postural and frame techniques
Can demonstrate Novice level turning technique including pivot, chaine, posted (rides), and ronde methods of turning.
We recommend students have completed all Level 2 and Level 3 workshops, including competition preparation workshops.
Petitioning is free during our Saturday Dance Socials.
Students must wait at least 2 weeks between petition attempts.
Students who do not pass petition will be given feedback on which aspects of their technique to improve upon before their next petition.