Belly Dance Instructors's topics - tribe.net

student show performance order

alison — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:34:07 GMT

Hi,

Is there any ettiquette (too many tttt'sss : )for the order of performances as in - Who opens/ends the show?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 7 replies

Maintaining Students

sonia — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:01:41 GMT

All,

Does anyone have advice as how how to keep students interest and stay in class. I notice some people paying for a full class, but they do not show up for all the classes! Then they dont fill out fedback sureys and i have no idea why they didnt come to class. Some students communicate to me when they need to miss a class so i can give them the material privately before or after class. but some just dont communicate...

Also any advice on being a successful dance instructor would be great!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

Student bored and frustrated

Leilani — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:40:55 GMT

Hi, Student of 4 years here. Been taking classes from a wonderful Tribal teacher. She is fantastic that she offers different levels which not all middle eastern dance teachers do. For awhle she was offering other classes, alternating between soloing, fusion combos and sword,besides the standard ITS classes. This kept things interesting for type A personality me. Lateley though, she has just been offering ITS. I really enjoy the bond of ITS but it gets boring to me particularly after taking class for 4 years! I am not sure if I want to continue but there is not that many teachers in our area particularly offering different levels. I am almost tempted to just do dvds at home. I don't feel inspired to sign up for next session though I feel like a am in a dilema. She has recommended me to her restaurant that she is the main performer. I help her out with her workload by performing there sometimes. I almost feel pushed to keep going. How does one handle this? I also thought you as teacher might want to get a student's prospective on what goes through a student's mind.
Many of you think student's drop out due to economy. Talking to fellow students, it's usually frustration over something or over a few issues.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

X-Post: Forming and managing a student troupe

Mahin — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:52:19 GMT

I posted a thread about forming and managing a student troupe on the Belly Dance Troupe Talk tribe but it appears that tribe has fallen silent over the last few months. So, if anyone is interested in this conversation please join me here:
http://tribes.tribe.net/bdtroupetalk/thread/0643573b-18bb-468f-bc5e-7babc8ad4f2a#006b8c31-a9d2-40c3-bc90-e148593d5d3c

I look forward to hearing what you have to say :-)

Thanks,
Mahin

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 7 replies

What do you wear to teach?

tribalmeg — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 04:04:35 GMT

I was talking with a student dancer in another area today and she said all her instructors have worn their full costumes to teach. I'm just curious if this is a new trend? Are you teaching in a bedleh?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 20 replies

Improvisational bellydance- feedback, how to, teaching tips?

weathervanedance — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 23:26:05 GMT

My next series of classes will be "Improvisation - Testing the waters" because it such a beast of a topic for even seasoned dancers, yet one that is so important. I have selected 3-4 very different songs to be used during the 6 week, intermediate-level series. My class structure is: warmup, review of movements (specific to the music I have chosen), music introduction (listen to and discuss the predetermined song), small group discussion and collaboration (what movements are fitting to the music)/selecting moves to "fall back" on, and finally, 8-10 minutes of solid improvisation - without an audience to start, then with an audience as we get to the second half of the series.

I know my own process, however I wanted to find out from other dancers how you improvise bellydance. What is your mental and physical process-- before, during and after? What do you do to prepare yourself beforehand?

Lastly, from an instructor's point of view, is there anything else I could add to my curriculum to help my students practice and feel more comfortable with the improvisational aspect of bellydancing?

Thanks in advance!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 18 replies

Book Recommendations

mangopeachykeen — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:56:47 GMT

Hi, I just started teaching my first belly dance class. The first class was Wed. night and went great...but I'm looking for some more teaching resources. Can anyone recommend some books on teaching belly dance? I've never run across one of these, but maybe a dance teaching book or general teaching book would be just as helpful...thanks!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 13 replies

Drum Solo with Nanna Candelaria - belly dance

Nanna — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 21:07:12 GMT

Nanna explains the fundamentals in optimizing and maintaining full and lucid shimmies, clear crisp accents, fast paced footwork, and exhilarating rhythmic combinations. A thorough breakdown of basic movements is intended to introduce the steps to beginning dancers. And a
sophisticated approach to subjects such as muscle control, proper alignment, and proper distribution of strength aid in defining and perfecting movement for dancers of all levels.

This DVD ultimately teaches a full drum solo choreography with a drill section of each component to aid in your progression towards a new level of dance.
To purchase go to: https://www.createspace.com/272946

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

ideas for class - need inspiration!

Emma — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:10:17 GMT

hi there! if anyone can help me out, i am teaching a class in an hour, and have not yet planned what to do! for my other classes I do have class plans etc so this isn't my usual style, but because it is a fitness based class for beginner level at a gym, I tend not to teach any choreography, and we don't spend ages drilling a few moves, like i might if we wanted to work on technique. we usually refresh moves, put them together into some sort of combo or two, and then dance this out. however, i try to vary things, like last week i had them in 3 lines, back line were shimmying on spot & adding arms, the middle line were doing forward/bk shimmy step with different arms, and the front line were shimmy walking forward & back, as they all say they struggle most with shimmies! then after 32 counts the front line split, shimmy walk to make the back, they all move forward & do the next move etc etc. anyway, i'm waffling when i should be planning! but any ideas for fresh but simple combinations or fun class/group activitie whilst still working up a sweat is much appreciated! and if you can reply within an hour, i could even use them for tonight!! had a long day at work and so haven't de-stressed from that yet!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 2 replies

Back and Knee issues

Gleo — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:31:04 GMT

I have a student with previous lower back and knee injuries that are still causing her problems. Her doctor gave her the OK to dance which I required she check on, though he did caution to be careful. This is a new situation for me. Even though I have personally dealt with a back injury, it rarely flares up. This specific student has issues that won't go away anytime soon.

Her posture will never be on par due to her back. It has a permanent sway in it and she won't be able to do some movements at all. Of course, back bends and turkish drops are right out at this point. *laughs*

I am thinking to ensure that she warms up and stretches well, encourage her to do it at home. Then, watch her for any signs of pain as well as tell her to let me know if she can't do something. Listening to your own body is key, but we all know some people just don't tell you they're hurting. (I'm guilty!)

What would you all suggest with this? Any other advice or experience with a student who has had injuries that limit them?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

Israeli music

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 07:14:35 GMT

Does anyone use Israeli music? If so, what do you like?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 9 replies

Assessing private students

Bo — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 05:58:55 GMT

When meeting a new student (with whom you have not had a class) for private lessons, what do you typically ask/have them do to assess their skill level and needs? I feel that only asking verbally is liable to be inadequate; people can under or overestimate themselves or be unaware of their needs. Is there a series to run through to look for issues, strengths, weaknesses, etc.?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

Starkville Mississippi?

shamsidances — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 15:38:35 GMT

Hello you all - I've got a friend moving to Starkville Mississippi soon (home of MSU) and she is seeking bellydance or yoga instruction. Does anyone know of any teachers over there?

ThANKS!
~Shamsi

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 3 replies

How to teach my favorite type of student

Bastet — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 16:55:45 GMT

...I've had them before. They just want to get out there and shake all over! They are just so gosh-darned excited about bellydancing, but they aren't patient enough with themselves to learn it. So, they end up doing an imitation of the movement that is just....well, all over the place. I love this type of student. They LOVE dancing. They are sweet, positive, and so supportive of the dance and you as an instructor/mentor. However, I can never seem to actually get their technique as refined as the other students. I want to impress upon them that having good technique doesn't mean taking away the raw passion of the dance. In fact, I think you are better able to express it! So, how do I pull her back down to earth to teach her without crushing her spirit? Can it be done?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 18 replies

HELP! looking for formal studies, surveys re belly dance benefits

ZivaDiva — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:03:18 GMT

I am designing a program to work with women who are dealing with addiction and recovery (in Mobile, Ala.). I have always heard (and said to my students) that belly dance builds confidence, enhances self-esteem, is therapeutic, etc.

BUT does anyone know for sure if any studies have been done to support this assertion? I would like to know as it would be helpful for me to be able to present this information to the people who are in charge of the programs in which I will work.

Thank you,
ZD

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

How cool is this...

starwilflowr — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 04:44:12 GMT

http://www.mosaicdance.net/index.php?page=turning-bellyache-into-belly-dance

Have any of you done something like this before?
I LOVE this idea!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 5 replies

Advice on a weird email

Jennifer — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 22:00:40 GMT

Hi - new to the tribe, but I need some advice!

Background - I have recently relocated and have started up classes in my new city. Through I dance both ATS and tribal fusion, I have decided to only teach ATS to start - there is mostly cabaret here and a bit of TF, so I wanted to make sure I wasn't stepping on anyone's toes. I may expand into TF later, after I have established myself here and if there is interest.

This morning, I received an email through my website that basically said, "I am busy Thursday nights (which is the night I teach beginner classes), so is there another time you can teach me, or another way? Also, do you have a troupe I can join?"

I smiled about her enthusiasm and wrote her back, saying that I could do private lessons if she would like that, though they would cost more. I also said I don't have a troupe now since I only have beginner students, but I hope to form one in the future.

Her reply (summarized) - She teaches yoga and dance and works at a gym and would like afternoon private lessons if possible. She's like a quote. Also, We could use the gym where she teaches, so I wouldn't need to worry about renting studio space.

My first thought is that this is a little weird. . . like maybe she wants to have a few bellydance classes and then she will try to teach it herself at the gym? So, I googled her - and she teaches iyengar yoga and prenatal bellydance classes, as well as a bellydance bollywood fusion class.

Is this weird? Should I be worried? I was thinking of writing her back and just saying that I looked her up online as I am always interested to see what kind of yoga and dance is being offered since I am new here, and am confused since she teaches bellydance herself, and then see what she says. Thoughts?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 9 replies

back to basics for beginners

Emma — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 21:05:51 GMT

i've not long got back from teaching a new class and it was their first lesson. i always find this the hardest - they don't know what to expect, don't know me, and vice versa, and it's hard to know where to pitch as you quickly become aware that some pick things up much quicker than others.

i taught a variety of moves and after we'd drilled them we put them into a combo and danced this for a while. from past experience i then add a few extra moves each week, and change the combinations etc etc.

but it is always difficult to know how to keep it 'fresh' for beginners. for example, in my more experienced classes, i get the students to interact and sometimes work in groups, or we'll each 'add a move' to make a combo, or i'll add layering or a prop. but for newbies obviously you've got to start slow, but how do other teachers structure it so that it isnt' too repetitive? i would welcome some other experiences as I know how I've done it in the past, but there may be another way I can approach it!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

Breathwork

luluhoop — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 06:07:16 GMT

Hi all

I was wondering if any of you use breathwork in your classes. Aside from the occational "listen to your breath" comment, do you have any specific exercises that you lead your students through?

I'm studying breathwork in yoga and it's starting to spark some ideas for me in terms of applying it to bellydance. I naturally move with my breath and I feel that it is important to bring fluidity to the dance. I've worked with imagery and "energy balls" in my classes before to help lossen up students and get them to understand the internal connection between their movements. But I was thinking it might be benificial to add some breathing exercises.

What do you do? :-)

thx, Lulu

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 2 replies

videos and availability

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 01:04:46 GMT

do you make your hafla and show videos available to your students only, to attendees, or to the public? Are your students allowed to post footage from your events or do you alone retain that right? Are they allowed to post their own portion of the performance? Are they allowed to post other's performances? How do you handle it when someone wants to post something from a very old show?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 11 replies

design a teacher training program (quality standards spin off)

Lara — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:58:22 GMT

Taking off from Aisha's recent thread on quality standards for teaching, I would be very interested in seeing what subject headings folks would put on a 'course catalog' for MED teacher training. I think everyone here has touched on important aspects of teaching the dance, & there is so much that is commonly overlooked, that it is hard to say 'this is the one (or three or ten) thing(s) that really need to be adressed.' So, just as a fun exercise & if anyone is willing, what would your course catalog look like if you were developing a MED teaching degree at your local U? (& have I been a professional student too long if this is how I get my kicks?)

I know there are 'teacher training courses' out there, & some debate as to how helpful they are & how much they are inspired by a need for some kind of appearance of legitimacy, that is not topic I am trying to drag up here- merely want to know a little more in depth what YOU would consider required for a well rounded teacher training, & a 'course catalog' seemed like a nice succinct way to communicate that :) What are your required classes & what are your electives?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 19 replies

What About Us Out in the Sticks?

Lavender Dawn — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 20:12:42 GMT

I have notice that quite a lot of teachers here have a very set idea of who is qualified to teach and while in principal I agree, if everyone waited until they were 'ready' there would be even fewer teachers and a lot less dancers than there are now. I understand about the need to keep a certain standard, safety issues and all those very valid reasons but isn't there a place for those of us who are isolated geographically, have some experience and skill in teaching but who are not quite up to snuff according to the standards I've seen vaunted on this tribe?

In my area, there are only two choices for any kind of instruction in BD and one lady only does class( ATS) once a year or so, (which I've taken whenever she offers it). So unless you want to drive at least two hours away for an hour and a half class, that's it. I've taken from the other lady( tribaret) for four years then began driving over an hour to another class(ATS and Gypsy) for over a year when I felt a prejudice against my size( I'm a BBD) from the tribaret teacher. The ATS Gypsy teacher has moved away so it's either go back to where I'm not accepted( but my money is) or dance in my tiny mobile home alone.

In my experience with the tribaret class I met and networked with other BDD's and even some not so large dancers that felt excluded from that class. Many people had just given up dancing because there were no other places to go. After a year with the ATS Gypsy troupe and having taken from every teacher here and traveled to Tribalfest two years and taken every class I could afford, along with buying and renting a ton of instructional DVDS, I decided to fill a niche and start teaching myself. I only charge a $5.00 fee for the use of the hall and do not market myself as a teacher of professional dancers. My class is positioned for fun, fitness and body acceptance, not to train dancers to work as pros. If I ever have a student who wants or needs that kind of training, I will recommend she move to an area where she can get it and point her to a few studios I know of that are within a day's drive but so far everyone who has come to class has been satisfied with just having some basic skills and a place to dance that is accepting to everyone regardless of size or skills.

So where does that leave people like me? Should we just stop teaching because we are not 'pros' or should we keep that door open wide so as many people who want to dance have somewhere to go?

I do teach the traditional rhythms, talk about the various forms and flavors and the hall marks of each style, provide referrals and references
to those who want or need them, use drums, zills and rattles to help people learn musicality, use a lot of different musical styles and never suggest that I what we're doing is anywhere near professional performance level. I take no money for myself because I don't feel that my level of instruction warrants a fee. I see myself more as providing a platform for beginners to get a taste for BD and for the more experienced dancer to have a place to work on layering, props etc in a supportive atmosphere at an affordable price.

The tribaret class is $15.00 a class for a class card and $20.00 drop in but I don't feel I'm undercutting because I make it clear that what I'm offering is different and I also tell every person who comes when and where that class is and encourage them to check it out for a wider dance experience. I also tell them about the ATS class when she offers it and provide info on Tribalfest and any other opportunities for workshops in our area.

It would have been nice to have the luxury of working under another teacher for years, subbing for her and eventually branching out on my own but I, like a lot of us in remote areas have to work within our limited opportunities. So where do I, and others like me fit into the BD instructors world?

I've seen some threads about training teachers and if and when I get the opportunity believe me, I'll be there but in the meantime, I keep building my skills, learning as much as I can and hope I am helping provide something valuable.

Please comment on how I can better serve the dance community, ( be kind). I'm open to suggestions.

Thanks for reading my very long post, lol.

Lav

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 45 replies

teaching from home

Ali — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 21:43:01 GMT

Hi everyone,
I have recently become blessed with a beautiful home studio situation. My husband and I have kept the front room of our house open and free of furniture so there would be lots of space to dance. We have nice wood floors, and recently manifested some huge mirrors. I have been having troupe rehearsals over here, and I'm enjoying my home space more than the studio I currently teach at. For one thing, the spaces are about the same size, but my home studio has bigger and better mirrors. (At the studio I rent, they have one 3' by 2' mirror that they have propped against a wall for us. (The yoga students prefer not to have mirrors). I am starting to wonder whether it is really financially sound for me to pay rent on two spaces, and I'm thinking of moving all my classes in home. My house is not very far out of the way from where I currently teach and I know my regular students would be ok with it. It would also provide a lot more flexibility with scheduling classes, especially private lessons.
The studio that I currently teach at is a little neglected by the owners. Their book keeping process is often hard to understand, the studio is often cluttered and dirty, and it seems like one of the owners has almost completely lost interest in maintaing the studio or promoting. I have to call her weeks in advanced just to see that I'm paid regularly. I'm sure it's a challenge running a studio, but I feel like I could provide my students with a more elegant, comfortable space myself, and benefit a lot more from my hard work in the process.
Has anybody taught out of their home with success? If so, how do you promote yourself, I'm not sure if I'd want to print my home address on a flier, for example. Are there other things I should be aware of? Pros? Cons?
I'd be very very grateful for any feedback that you all have to provide regarding this matter.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 8 replies

Outrageous students requests

celeste_isabelle — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:02:56 GMT

All right... since I've had more and more students, I get funky requests... So I wonder if other instructors feel like sharing stories about outrageous requests.

I'll start...

I've had a student request that I change the day for my beginners classes as they currently are on Wednesdays and, well, she keeps forgetting so she'd like for them to be changed to a day that would work better for her.

I've also had a student ask me to help her move... after she hadn't been in my classes for like many months.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 26 replies

Studio drama

Magdelena — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:46:25 GMT

I'm a little frustrated right now. The studio where I have been teaching is a yoga studio & they have decided to close (which I totally understand). What I find so frustraiting is they only gave us 5 weeks notice.

It looks like I will have a place for for baby beginners thanks to a good friend but I am worried about finding a place for my intermediate dancers who have been working soooooo hard. I am hoping the new studio will give me a 90 minute time slot for an intermediate class but who knows...

I have dealt with this at another yoga studio & it drives me nuts that they give their dance teachers such short notice. The wind has gone out of my sails...

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 7 replies

Shamadan music

sandrakeil — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 17:50:03 GMT

Help please!! ;-))
I am looking for music that would suit a shamadan choreography, middle eastern rythms and with a traditional egyptian background, but not too traditional, something more modern, with some nice breaks and enough drama to add a few other dancers or have stage effects , etc.
It's driving me crazy, I have something in mind, I just cannot seem to find what I am looking for!! ;-)))
thanks for any help!!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 1 reply

Hi y'all, I'm new!

mangopeachykeen — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:50:01 GMT

Hi everyone, I just joined the tribe because I'm going to be teaching my first belly dance class next month...it's at a community rec center. Does anyone have any valuable advice???

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 7 replies

Music - looking for something really upbeat, help!

Indu — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 11:46:18 GMT

Hi all,

I am looking for a 2 min long (possibly not too much longer, but 3 mins is ok) - of something, perhaps arabic pop (although i'm not a desperate fan of that), to get students going for a short choreography. Preferably something heavy on lively drums and egyptian in style. Not a drum solo, but something cheeky and funky.

Can anyone recommend a piece for me? I have thousands of pieces of music in my itunes, but none fit this description annoyingly!!

Thank you!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 18 replies

Frustrations...thoughts?

ash — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 08:01:43 GMT

My classes are generally fitness based since it's really hard to keep students in this town (alot of my students are basers and end up moving away...) and recently I've had a student who thinks I'm "not trying hard enough" to get enough interest for performances. She showed up for one 6-week session of mine with her daughter and then judges off that. This was a "fitness based" class and they both show up with full costume and jewelry etc. and suggest belly rolls and complicated moves for my beginners. Now she has informed me that her daughter is teaching classes so they have performances to look forward to. I really feel for any students they capture because I dont think they understand how difficult teaching is and can be vs. just showing off with performances. I've tried to have performances before and the last one, which should've been 14 students, had 2 girls show up (one wasn't even taking the class! she was a friend of mine that I had taught the routine to!) So...I'm just frustrated here and if you guys have any thoughts, I'd like hear :)

~Ashley Nicole

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 1 reply

Interview with Petite Jamilla

Diana — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 21:49:57 GMT

Great interview please go here

http://bellydancingdiva.com/2009/07/a-day-in-the-life-ofpetite-jamilla/

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

Glide step

ZivaDiva — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:08:17 GMT

Hey, Dance Sisters--

There is a dance step that I've been shown before but can't quite remember how to do--it's a step where the dancer appears to be gliding across the stage? Know what I'm talking about? Please remind me of the mechanics.

Thanks, fellow instructors, I'm drawing a blank on this one.

Shimmies!
ZD

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 5 replies

Buffalo Middle Eastern Dance Festival

Buffalo Middle Eastern Dance Festival — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:24:29 GMT

The Buffalo Middle Eastern Dance Festival will take place in Buffalo, NY on Sept. 26, 2009! Day time workshops and a Gala including a traditional belly dance show and live music!
Visit: http://www.bellydancewithfaaria.com for more info

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

Becoming a teacher...?

BasinahSaahira — Tue, 21 Nov 2006 10:07:40 GMT

Hey guys. Got a question...

I've been teaching belly dance informally since about April of this year. My girls LOVE the class, but we lost our site, and I'm not sure what to do now.

My question is, how did you become a formal teacher? My girls all say I'm good with them, patient and I go through the moves with them in a way they understand. I'm only a beginner myself, so that's all I could teach. But a couple of them how have said that I should become an official teacher, maybe even with paid classes. Then maybe I can find a site to teach at, heh.

How did you all get into this? Is there a kind of certification or anything? Where do you teach, who do you teach with, etc, etc. For those who teach alone, how did you find the place you teach at? Any and all info is appreciated. Oh, and I'm in Schaumburg, IL if that helps at all.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 22 replies

Trying harder

ZivaDiva — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 12:51:13 GMT

Ok-I would like to hear from those bellydancers who are older (say older than 50?). Do you think as you get older you have to try harder to look glamorous in costume to compete with the younger dancers? Do you have to try harder to stay in shape--such as exercise, diet, etc.? Do you feel "passed over" due to your age or shape when it comes to being hired by someone? These issues are important issues and I'd love to hear from all of you on this.

ZD

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

Quality standards in teaching dance

A'isha — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 19:12:04 GMT

Dear Dancers,
I am currently collaborating with another dancer on a project for defining standards in teaching dance. The project includes all styles of ME and fusion off-shoots , and has to do with quality standards in teaching dance. I want to do a segment on what dance teachers themselves see as the most important elements of what makes for high standards and quality teaching in the dance class room. I am hoping to hear from teachers all over the world. I want to get a paragraph or two about this from many different sources. The basic question is:

"What do you consider to be the most important elements in offering quality instruction to your students?"

I am looking for responses from teachers in any of the Middle Eastern and fusion off-shoot dance styles. Please let me know what dance style you teach. If you prefer, you can email me privately at aishaazar@raqsazar.com. And also, please let me know if your prefer to remain anonymous or if I can use your name in the article.
Regards,
A'isha

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 7 replies

Looking for Seattle Bellydance Instructors

_Iona_ — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 23:51:48 GMT

Hello all!

I do apologize if this isn't the right place to post this - I have a friend who is trying to find a Seattle, WA bellydance instructor. I figured if I could get a list to her then she could check them out and see which one she likes.

Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 5 replies

Overly motivated students? ACCKKK!!!

Zafira — Sun, 25 May 2008 15:06:58 GMT

I have a new beginner student who is friends with some other students in my other classes.
Well they told me she is known for being very competitive. She told them because of her ballet/jazz dance background she'd only be in my beginners' class for 1 six week session, then she'd be moving up to my intermediates' class.

She has already asked me about attending a beginners' class on another night that is a little ahead of her class because they are repeat students, and her class, including her, are all newbies. She cited her previous dance background. I told her no, I had nothing available.
The reason is the other class is full, I have a limited amount of space and I'm at capacity plus it was their last class of the session.

Of course my next session of intermediates is now full as is the class of beginners I teach right after that because it is repeat students and they've all signed up.

How to handle a student who already knows everything? Refer her out? Unfortunately few other instructors teach in my area over the summer.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 35 replies

the old belly dance vs. burlesque thing

Ali — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 02:50:25 GMT

Last night I had a gig performing with Vagabond Opera, and a local burlesque troupe opened the show. One of the girls danced to a beats antique song, and danced as if she had watched a lot of Zoe Jakes on youtube and was trying to imitate, both in movement style, costume, hair and make up. The dancing was rather sloppy, and she was the only dancer to reveal her bare breasts instead of pasties. I have no judgement about burlesque, but I noticed when I got up to dance later in the show that I heard many more cat calls than normal. I also frankly found it to be in poor taste, especially since she has never studied belly dance. Really she was a beautiful girl, and if she were to put in some time and study, I think she'd have real potential as a belly dancer.
Here's my issue. After the burlesque troupe saw me perform many are now eager to attend my classes, including the girl mentioned above. Which is great, gotta love more students. However, I do not feel comfortable training dancers to belly dance for the purpose of stripping. Reno is still a small town in many ways, and it is only now starting to offer good performance gigs for belly dancers. I don't want to be expected to take it off somewhere, because some other "belly dancer" does. I've also been asked by one of the troupe members if I will teach a "Belly Dance striptease" class, and if I ever want to perform with them. I don't want to come off as prude or snobbish to these girls. They are all really sweet and I'd love to collaborate with them in another dance arena. I feel like I gotta speak my truth on this one and respectfully decline. Anyone else been approached with this in their town?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 10 replies

All-time greats

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 14:43:23 GMT

Who do you consider the all-time greats of belly dance?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 3 replies

updates on new kids classes...thanks you guys!

SASHAME — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:54:26 GMT

many months ago i had asked you guys your thoughts on names and ideas for some kids classes. i chose the name Bitty Bellies for the 5-9 class and Hip Shakers for the 10-14 class. the classes have taken off as i have 5 little ones and atleast 2 in the older class. ive found that the little girls just want to be pretty and jingle coins and be princesses. so, we do veil work the last 20 min. and do a lot of running and moving (wether its a bellydance move or not) and they love it. its only a 45 min. class and that works great. we sit in a circle after class and talk about what they liked, had trouble with, plans for the summer ect... in the older kids class, we do basics and veils in the end and they love it too.

just fyi. thank you to all of you who offered great ideas and names.. :)

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

Natural dancers vs. not

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 06:25:06 GMT

Okay.... how many have actually had a NATURAL dancer walk in and be able to pick up everything quickly? I saw a very dedicated natural dancer go to performance (not professional, but performance) in six months. Keep in mind that she practiced a lot at home. She said 1 to 3 hours a day at least 5 days a week. (That kind of dedication and enthusiasm are truly rare!)
Anyone else see anything like this????
Now, the not:
How do get it across to the students that are not naturals that THEY will have to work MUCH harder and MUCH longer to get to the same point? I have managed to explain to the people I have worked with, but from reading posts from you ladies, I want to be prepared to handle the more "difficult" people!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 12 replies

How do you handle beginners classes/different levels

Luna — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:35:51 GMT

How do you guys handle this:

Traditionally, new classes for beginners start in september...
However I've noticed that I get a lot of questions from people wanting to start bellydance classes in januari, or even in april or the summer.

Personally I like absolute beginners to begin from the absolute beginners classes, so I wouldn't put them in a class of people that have been learning for 6 months or so. My beginner classes are very structured, we start from zero and each class builds upon the previous one, which most people really appreciate. It would be hard to drop in after missing the first months of classes...

What do you say to a student wanting to start in januari? Bad luck? You'll have to wait till september?
Would it be a good idea to organise something like "introduction workshops for beginners" so they would be able to at least have some basics before they drop in?

And another question: how do you avoid having too many groups?
For example: say you teach wednesdays: 19:00-20:00 for beginners, 20:00-21:00 for intermediate and 21:00-22:00 for advanced.

Now in an ideal world, I would have my students 1 year in beginners class and at least 2 years in intermediate before moving up to advanced. So practically, I would have to shift my beginners from 19:00-20:00 to the next hour (and thus putting them in the intermediate with other people) in september, if I were to be able to start a new absolute beginners class in september...

I know students would rather have their classes on the same hour every year (and thus advance in the same group), but I can't keep on creating new groups every year!

I've only been teaching for a year now, so I would love some input on this :-)

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 3 replies

Does this sound fishy to anyone else?

Leyla — Fri, 15 May 2009 12:17:19 GMT

I got the following email this morning (3:11 A.M.) and for some reason it isn't sitting well with me.....

"Hi, How are you doing today?I got your information as a belly dance teacher and I want training for my daughter (Sandra) in your studio.Sandra is a 14 year old girl and is ready to learn.Please I want to know your policy with regard to fees, cancellations, and make-up lessons.Also,get back to me with the total fees for six month lessons(two one-hour lessons in a week) starting from June 5th.
In addition,I want to know the studio location and your phone number.Looking forward to hearing from you.
My best regards, John"

What do you think? How should I proceed? I teach out of my home, so my safety and my family's safety is extreme importance....kwim?
:)

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 27 replies

Beginners classes - how to make a couple of new moves last a whole class....

Indu — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:41:22 GMT

Hi all,

One thing I find hard when introducing beginners to the dance is that they often have extremely different levels of physical intelligence. So one person will be getting EVERYTHING I do, straight away - and the rest or a few others will take weeks and weeks, if not months to improve.
How do you keep a class interesting for everyone?
Sometimes I find i introduce new moves which might be too fast for the strugglers - but want to keep the naturals challenged as well. With small numbers in the classes its hard to keep everyone occupied as compared to bigger classes.

Does anyone have any good tricks on how to eeeeeek out moves and make them last longer in an hour long class?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 5 replies

punch cards vs. tuition

Shari — Fri, 29 May 2009 03:52:44 GMT

I've been teaching beginning belly dance. I will soon be teaching a fitness class based in dance.

Punch cards or prepaid tuition for a session? Why do you prefer one over the other? Does punch card have an expiration date? Do you allow drop-ins? at a different rate?
Does it make a difference what kind of class you're teaching; technique or choreography vs. fun and fitness?

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 9 replies

International Bellydance Congress in UK

ItalianBELLYdancer — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:35:39 GMT

I don t know where post it....sorry ...
somebody went at International Bellydance Congress?how is it? comments?
I want to go...it s in my planing inchallah ;)

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

What's the make-up of a GREAT workshop?

Ela — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 19:30:37 GMT

We've all taken many, and we've all had memorable favorites... I am curious as to what YOU like in a workshop. What makes a workshop great? No matter if it is only an hour long, or three hours long... As dancers, as artists, what do we want to walk away with? Any experiences, opinions, or stories are very much welcome!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 9 replies

more fishiness (is that a word?)

Zafira — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:16:20 GMT

The email I received this a.m. Guess it does not matter what kind of dance I teach, they'll take anything. I am reliable with good experience but they don't know what kind of dance I teach??????

Greetings,

My name is Baird Alvin,from United Kingdom.I believe you are a dance
teacher/instructor that LOVES teaching dance, reliable with a good
teaching experience. I would like to book for 2 weeks dance classes
for 3 hours each day Monday to Saturday (morning hours) for a group of
10. We are asking for 3 hours per day for 2 weeks - Monday - Saturday.
A total of 36 hrs.

We want to entertain the guests as well as family members that would
be attending the 50th wedding anniversary of my

parents. The dancers are all in INTERMEDIATE level. What kind of
dances do you teach? We need dance classes/private

lessons like Belly,Tango,Latin,Ballet as well as Salsa, Swing and
Ballroom.ANY of the above can serve.

Do you have a training studio/facility where you conduct the classes?

DATE: 1ST August TO 15TH August 2009

The group would be performing for a group of family members over
there. I would love you to get back to me with the

Grand total cost or a quote/estimate. What are your charges and
payment options? Do you accept credit cards?

I would be grateful if you will be willing to do the work to teach
quality classes and make us happy.

Please send a confirmation to this email IN THE BODY OF THE.

EMAIL (NOT as an attachment please)

Best Regards,
Baird Alvin

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

Greek/Bellydance Circle-Where Do You Begin?

Sparkle — Mon, 25 May 2009 19:35:31 GMT

Hi there, I have a private performance coming up soon and was ask to do a greek circle with the audience. I could use some help with this by way of music selection and suggestions on how to get the circle going and what to do once in the circle (Smile).

I have some idea in mind and thought of maybe a saidi song to dance to etc.

I greatly appreciate any suggestions you may have and thank you in advance (smile)

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 8 replies

Private classes help!

jenndances — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 11:15:23 GMT

I've had an onslaught of people wanting to take classes with me privately. Normally, this would not have been a problem, but I just moved to a new venue and the only time I have access to the studio space is during my group classes (which are very small they are practically semi-private as it is). I understand the 'why' of their desire, I just need some options on figuring out how to handle the situation - I'm not exactly comfortable having folks at my home, since I don't really have an adequate space (and it's not an allergy friendly environment) and I'm not entirely sure I want to start making house-calls again either. I also have no idea what to charge.

GAH!!!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

The Economy

A'isha — Wed, 13 May 2009 14:25:34 GMT

Dear Dancers,
I am wondering how the economy has affected dance classes over all. I live in the Northwest USA and have found that my regular classes are down as far as enrollment, but that I am teaching more private classes and seem to be having a fair average turn-out at workshops. What is going on with everyone else? Are people spending money allotted for classes in a different way than usual?
Regards,
A'isha

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

Names for individual moves

Indu — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:40:02 GMT

Having 'fallen' into teaching somewhat (living in the middle of nowhere - dance teacher disappearing etc who i was teacher training with) - Different people have been taught different names for different moves. I even found a video the other day on youtube teaching 'egyptian walk' - but to me it looked like a step with a hip push! I've also met dancers who don't even 'know' the egyptian walk or rather, what it refers to (i first learnt with a teacher who was heavily into all egyptian style). Some people have told me the egyptian walk is like the Hagala without the hip twist or like the 3/4 shimmy with emphasis on the down.

I WISH WISH WISH there were set names for everything - so what I find myself doing is saying things like - 'Ok, this move is known as either the Ummie, Moroccan hip circle or interior hip circle' - and it can get confusing! I try to give a couple of explanations of what the move is called and sometimes people have been told something completely different.

How do you guys get round this - and do you think that there will ever be a set name for moves like there is with ballet?

Sometimes I find myself doing moves that I have not been taught (but have come naturally when improvising or watching other dancers) - and do'nt even know waht they are called!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 11 replies

Books

Bea — Fri, 01 May 2009 22:55:04 GMT

Hi!

Can you recommend any good books on teaching belly dance or dance in general?

Thanks!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 10 replies

Troupe Advice NEEDED!!! Thank you!

Molly — Sun, 03 May 2009 18:55:46 GMT

Thank you in advance for reading through this... I tend to be a detailed writer!!
I am currently dealing with MANY issues with my troupe. Here is the story:

I moved here (small, remote, ski town in Colorado) 10 years ago, and there was NO belly dance at all here. So, for a few years, I danced with the local African troupe, did a few performances, and got involved in the 'dance scene'. It is actually a pretty impressive scene for how small the town is!! Anyway, one thing led to another, and I started teaching belly dance about 7 years ago. I had a lot of experience when I moved here, I had been in a troupe in California for a bit and have danced since I was about 5. As I have been teaching for 7 or so years, I now have a very good performance troupe. There are 12 of us (including myself), and we have always been a pretty cohesive group of great ladies. They are some of my closest and best friends!! WE do both local performances as well as travel to festivals and such.

Here is the issue: I am moving away with my husband (in August), and we are trying to figure out who is going to 'take over' for me. This is a tricky one, because up until now, there has always been one very clear cut leader, me. Everyone else is, more or less, on equal ground. Some of my dancers have more experience than others, (and some are more dedicated than others), but everyone is pretty equal. Three of my students have taught, two are teaching right now (beginning classes), and one taught for a few years, a few years ago, while I was in school. She was great, she 'took over' for me, lead the dancers, got new people interested, and did a wonderful job. That was also before we became a troupe. It was more just a collection of dancers doing pretty informal stuff, not too aggressive. (she doesn't want to take over for me now, she is focusing on other things and just wants to dance)

One of the dancers who is currently a beginning teacher, would very much like to take over for me and be the troupe director. She is a very good dancer, and is verrry motivated. She LOVES belly dance, and doesn't have much else going on besides work and dance. I think she would do well.... except not everyone agrees. We have had one troupe meeting, and it was informally decided that she would take over (because she was the only one who wanted to and had time, also because she is an advanced dancer of course!). At first I was relieved that at least someone wanted to do it. It is a big job!! But then I started getting all of these concerns from the other dancers, all sorts, like they would be uncomfortable paying her as they pay me (for both rehearsal and class time), they don't feel she is 'qualified' to teach them, some of them see her as a bit of a controlling/power tripper, the list goes on... but basically the problem is that no one seems to feel comfortable taking direction from her because they are all equals.. and why should one person get paid, and think they are better, and so on.

Let me clarify what my position is as troupe director:
I started the troupe from scratch. I choreograph all of our group pieces ( I have encouraged others to choreograph both smaller numbers as well as troupe numbers, and a few have done trios, duets, solos, one of these being the woman that wants to take over, but no one has done a full troupe number). I teach advanced class (with all troupe members taking this class, even some non troupe members). I decide our costumes. I organize performances and shows. I decide the style and direction of our troupe (we are Tribal Fusion). I totally take suggestions from members as far as what they want to learn and practice, all of the time in fact. I wrangle cats, so to speak. A large part of my job as director is managing people and personalities (and I am good at it, I can be very objective)

A few of the members have suggested turning the troupe into a co-op situation, where there would be a rotating schedule of teachers (they would all take turns), there would be a rotating group of 'troupe choreographers' , they would collectively decide on costumes.. and so on. In theory, this is great, but in actuality, I have seen way too many groups fail with this arrangement. It is because of constant disagreements, (last summer I was gone for one of our shows and stupidly hadn't set the costumes, and they argued and argued about what to wear!! I found out - before the show- and set my foot down and set the costumes!)
The problem is that:
1) usually the majority of the work falls on one person
2) if that one person does all the work, there will definitely be resentment that will only get worse
3) if they couldn't agree on costumes that one time, how will they ever!!??
4) too many cooks in the kitchen ruins the meal
... see where I'm headed with this?? All I want to do, and feel it is my responsibility to do, is leave them all with the best possible tools with which to move forward and be successful as we have been. But already I feel the dynamic has changed within the group.

We are currently organizing a meeting. I sent out an email asking everyone to truthfully and uncensored tell me their concerns about the future of the troupe. My plan is that I will bring all of their concerns to the meeting, and present them completely anonymously. This is just to get everyone's thoughts and concerns out in the open, so that there is no resentment, and everyone has communicated what they have to, completely honestly. I will be the moderator of the meeting (as I already am)

Any suggestions or ideas for us????? Your thoughts are GREATLY appreciated! Thank you for reading through all of this, it is like a novel (sorry!!) but I wanted to let everyone know the whole story and history so y'all know where this is coming from.

Shimmy on!
Molly

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

Managing student development

Bea — Fri, 01 May 2009 23:23:18 GMT

One of my advanced students has shown a strong interest in teaching. I don't feel she's quite ready to teach but I'd like to guide her in anyway I can. I thought of asking her to attend my beginner's classes to get an idea of how to teach the basics, then asking her to assist me to teach this class when she's ready. How have you managed your student's development when they wish to teach?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

Ideas to attract and hold students??

connie — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 17:01:37 GMT

I teach at a very nice studio in a smal ltown between two medium sized cities. I have tried newspaper ads, fliers, an all day workshop for beginners which all attracted students for one or two sessions of 6 weeks and then many dropped out. My pricesare minimum compared to other venues, I used to think it was my technique but have ben assured that it was due to lack of their time that was holding them from coming in the summer but they would be back in the fall.....I still have studio rent to pay in the summer and am frustrated.
Any one else with similar problems, any ideas??

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 12 replies

Insurance?

nomadictribal — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:03:26 GMT

I'm sure that this has been discussed before, but a search didn't turn it up.
It's time for me to renew, and I'm not pleased with my current provider. Any recommendations?

I need a small policy for I only teach part-time to small classes...yoga and dance

thanks in advance....
ali

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 8 replies

New Tribe: Bellydance Troupe Talk

roz — Fri, 01 May 2009 03:50:56 GMT

Hey all,

I finally opened a tribe to discuss/philosiphize/agonize/analyze troupe life. There are times when things happen in the troupe I'm in that I wish I could post to someone "Is this normal?!?". Heehee.

http://tribes.tribe.net/bdtroupetalk

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

Squee!! My new promotional video is up!! Check it out, yo!!

SamiraLV — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 14:44:43 GMT

I am so excited!!! The promotional video for the Las Vegas Bellydance Intensive is now on the homepage of the website, www.bellydanceintensive.com

We'd like to credit the following people who helped make this video possible:

Editor-Danya Cornelius (please send all compliments to her!!)
Videography-Rob of Digital Edge Media www.digitaledge.tv
Photography-Brad of Taboo Media www.taboomedia.com
Music-Unveiled from the CD "Angelika Unveiled", composed & arranged by Raul Ferrando, and available at www.angelikanemeth.com

Much love,
Samira Tu'Ala
www.bellydanceintensive.com

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 2 replies

teaching while pregnant

rengal — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 23:07:15 GMT

I currently offer a prenatal bellydance class in my area, which is especially lovely at the moment since I am pregnant with my third kidlet. However, I got a request for some private lessons from a gal who is not currently pregnant. I have some concerns that since I am at the moment 5 months along, and only going to get bigger, that when I show her movements they will look different enough on me that it will be harder to display (the differences int he way my body moves while pregnant and not are enough to perhaps be a bit confusing to the beginning dancer).
Has anyone else had this experience? What are yor thoughts? ideas? hints? sources/resources for further info about teaching non-pregnant gals while you are pregnant?

Thanks! for your thoughts and experiences.

Sa'ada

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

Teaching Rhythms - When to do it?

Siryn — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:43:20 GMT

Hi everyone! I'm preparing myself to teach my first beginner's class hopefully in autumn, and am trying to draw up a curricullum and structure/outline for it (as well as for intermediate level).

I never learned Arabic rhythms from my own ex-teacher--I've had to learn a lot of things myself--so I'm not sure when or how to teach them in my own class. I know it's important to learn the rhythms in order to be better at interpreting Arabic music through our dance. I really want to be a good teacher, so I would much appreciate any tips, ideas and comments any of you would like to contribute. Thank you! :)

P/S: I'm an Egyptian/American cab-style dancer.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 11 replies

teaching objective.

Kristnh — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 16:29:39 GMT

Hi everyone! I hijacked this comment from a thread on the Bellydance Fitness/Wellness tribe but thought it would make a great discussion here.

A quote from a dancer-"We are in a bellydance crisis, we can't decide if we are teaching a dance skill or a social activity. When we decide what we are, we will be better at choosing what we need to do to be better at what we do. Until then...."

Does a class/teacher that focuses on women empowerment require the same training as a teacher focusing on drills/technique? Where does cultural context fit in? What do you all think? xoxoKristnh

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 12 replies

what's better (for continueing education)...

starwilflowr — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 21:04:02 GMT

So say you like to keep learning what you can from dancers you see & admire...

when you see a dancer whose work is stunning, do you find out who trained her & take a workshop from them?
or
Do you think is would be more beneficial (as in bang for your buck) to study with the girl you saw (are you getting the best of all the master dancers who trained her?)

On the one hand, a great dancer isn't automatically a great teacher- but on the other- if she trained with two great instructors wouldn't it be likely her training would reflect that? And if she isn't *yet* as famous as these instructors she studied under, it is quite possible that though she is *potnentially* offering more (input from both)...her class is likely to be less money than getting a workshop from either of the big names?

Just interested... what would you do in this instance?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

Chiftitelly Recommndations?

Sacha — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:20:18 GMT

Can anyone recommend a CD that has multiple tracks using the chiftitelli rhythm (or an entire CD with this rhythm)? Slow songs would be nice. Thanks to any tips!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 16 replies

I hope

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 03:54:03 GMT

I hope that you all had a very Happy Easter!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 1 reply

A NEW GAME IDEA

Afsana — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 22:29:43 GMT

It´s a variation of some children´s game.

All the dancers are in a circle. Every dancer has picked up a card with a certain move on it. Now the dancer is the move. The chorus does some easy movement (or a new one to practise). The teacher starts with her movement for 8 counts and then choose another from the circle for 4 counts (then she goes back to the chorus movement). Now the dancer with that move has to react quickly and do her movement for 8 counts as well. Then she picks up a different one from the circle and so on. The counts are not so important but it will make it quicker.
To make it easier, write the movements on large cards (format A4 or so) so that everybody can see it. The cards are then on the floor in front of the dancer.
I´m really looking forward to it. We´re going to learn interior hip circle this Thursday so this will be my chorus movement. I guess it´s gonna be pure fun :-D

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

This isn't funny (OK yes it is)

Raya — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 02:58:11 GMT

I'm trying to convince myself it's not funny, but there's no use. I'm laughing. You can too.

There is a problem. It is someone's feet. When the shoes come off for warm-ups...wow it's bad. They don't wear socks with their shoes either, and the shoes smell too! It is very much noticed by anyone in the room.

How exactly would you handle this? I'm thinking maybe getting a foot spray and setting it out for everyone?

...I have a feeling this thread is going to be serious *and* silly.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 19 replies

An Open Letter to Belly Dance Instructors....

SashaD — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 07:35:42 GMT

To all from whom I've taken or will take classes/workshops with. To all whom I haven't yet been able to but hope to do so.

Thank you.

I realized today that all of the instructors I have had have given me a gift. They each have bestowed upon me the love of an art form I might otherwise never have attempted. They have all contributed, in some way, some knowledge that was hard-earned and they so generously chose to share it.

From the first time I ever set foot into Mara's class at Parks and Rec. center in Scottsdale.... her instantaneous smile and contagious positive energy planted a little seed in me.

To Zina, who first taught me double veils. Thanks for the bout of near-sea-sickness, but it was sooooo worth it. You are a wonder with veils and I strive to be more like you.

To Helena, who has given me a gift of her grace, her regal stage presence, and a "wow" factor that makes me want to be more like her.

To Jazmin, whose abilities never cease to amaze me. The one woman I've seen dance (brilliantly) to only the sound of her own zills.

To Mahin, who I haven't yet had a lesson from, but who was honest enough to tell me when I needed help with my own zilling.

And the Boz Man... Jim, you never cease to make me laugh, to add to my already colorful vocabulary, and leave me with something I need to work on.

To Ava. What can I say about Ava that hasn't already been said a million times? She has (and thankfully, continues to) force me to microfocus on the little nuances of movements that I wasn't even aware existed. She's always patient with my never-ending stream of questions.

Each one of you has given me a gift. In your own little way, each of you has made me grow just a tiny bit as a dancer. I am forever grateful and humbled. Your opinions matter to me.

To all instructors out there... the REAL instructors.... you know, not the youtube "watch me!" girls.... those of you who really study the art, the culture, and choose to share what you've learned. You have my utmost admiration and I (loudly) applaud you.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 1 reply

Striving to Improve

Cahira — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 02:50:39 GMT

So, I teach at a very small studio. The owner is a wonderful lady, and we've kept afloat (sorta) throughout the years, even with the owner having gone through 2 bouts of cancer, losing most of our teaching staff (1 got re-located due to a job, 1 decided to take a break from dancing and is still not back, etc.), and a few other things that have hit us hard.

There's only one thing about our studio that bothers me...so instead of complaining about it, I'm trying to fix it.

We never perfect choreography and routines. Most of our choreographies get learned in a slap-dash fashion just before we perform them...then we don't do them again until we need to have a performance ready for the next show. This makes us sloppy. We have pictures where all of us are doing a completely different arm position at the same time...not intentionally.

So, we're trying a new thing. It will be 2 hours per week (one day) of troupe practice. Why am I telling you all this? I want some input on my thoughts to see how others do things. I have no experience with performing with any other groups but this one.

My plan for format is:

30 min: review of old (while we're first starting to get routines ready, this will be to make sure that no one's forgotten the previous week...or to go back over a particularly tricky combo in the routine that was taught the week before. Once we're more on track, this time will be for run-throughs of the routines that we know)

1 hour: learning/practicing new combos from the routine and combining those combos into sections of the routine (setting a limit on how much new will be taught each week so that it's not overwhelming and can be absorbed)

15 min: zil technique and practice (I know this isn't a lot, but we're really bad about actually practicing zils in or out of classes, so any amount of zil time is good).

15 min: Balancing drills (We have a tray choreography from the past and want to add a sword choreography, but again, like zils, no one practices like we ought to).

How does our breakdown sound? Any other suggestions for helping us get off our rearends and getting our performing together instead of 4-6 soloists all doing similar routines to the same song?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 5 replies

clicking bones

GypsyRose — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:58:56 GMT

Hi Ladies,

just a quick query -
after my class this week a student says she can feel and hear the bones clicking in her spine when she does chest slides,
i thought this maybe due to hear gaining increased muscle flexiblilty and her bones were catching up, i also checked she was keeping her back straight so it wasn't that she was curving her spine,

just wanted a bit of reassurance/advice is this normal..?!

much love,
Rose x

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

Student with Injury Question

halleyah — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:37:39 GMT

I've got a student who has torn a deep abdominal muscle and it's causing her consistent pain when she belly dances. Near as she and her doctor can figure she injured herself at a workshop about 8 mos ago and keeps re-injuring the muscle. Has anyone heard of or had a student tear a deep abdominal muscle due to belly dance?

If so, any suggestions besides rest? She's not sure what particular move caused the problem, so I'm not sure what to avoid once she does return to class.

Halleyah

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 13 replies

Belly dance instructor or Academy in Venezuela

Nym — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 17:02:34 GMT

Hi there,
My name is Nym. Does anyone know any experienced instructors or belly dance schools located in Caracas, Venezuela?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

need a tribal instructor in kansas

samantha — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 19:08:48 GMT

i live by Fort Riley in Kansas im looking for a instructor kind of close seeing how i got a sixth month old baby =) but everyone is 1hr and 1/2 away can anyone help me ?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 6 replies

Advise for working with women with eating disorders

Ali — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 04:16:33 GMT

Hi everyone,
I just got offered a really good gig teaching for a rehab center that deals mostly with recovering drug addicts and women recovering with eating disorders. They are providing the space for the class, and there will be no mirrors. I think this is a good thing, since mirrors can sometimes cause more harm that good to beginning students anyway, let alone when they have serious issues about their body appearance. (Sometimes I think that lack of mirrors help a student to really tune in to their own body, instead of being so reliant on what it looks like, they have to really FEEL what they're doing.)
Anyway, I know belly dance is great medicine for improving body image. However, I am very small in stature and size, and have often received comments about how "little" or "tiny" I am, and I do not want to my presence as a teacher to be resented or cause undue anxiety. I would also be very grateful for any suggestions, advise, or feedback about what might be helpful conduct or messages to convey when working with such a population. I wholeheartedly believe that belly dance is really good therapy, and I want to give these ladies the most healing experience possible. Thanks.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 10 replies

teaching course plan???

Cybella/Ursula — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:18:17 GMT

Is there a teaching course plan or guide out there somewhere, or do you all make up your own as you go along?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 12 replies

Is this wrong?????

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:02:20 GMT

My sister is having a difficult time in her beginning bellydance class. She is 43. Most of the time she is like a bull in a china shop, but she can be settled down.... after all, she can crochet, embroider, and paint. Anyway, to help her with her interior hip circles, I had to get a little graphic..... I told her to imagine that she had a sharpie marker up her butt and a piece of paper on a stool she was about to sit on, and draw a circle on the paper. My significant other almost spit Coke all over my Gram's kitchen. My sister just laughed, and did a rather good hip circle! So, is this wrong?????

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 32 replies

Arts Council England Survey-Who Knew? x post

Donna — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:12:01 GMT

I came accross this, by chance, and wondered if any of you knew about it or, better still, had taken part? I'd appreciate your responses even if it's "Didn't know". I'm trying to think of a plan to get us more recognition by mainstream dance. Can't believe I missed this deadline. Grr!

Dancemapping
Arts Council England has launched its biggest ever consultation on dance and is inviting everyone involved in the art form to have their say. The major assessment will be the largest undertaking of its kind, and will create a map of dance in England. The map will influence Arts Council’s future funding of dance and help create a stronger and more sustainable art form. There are three surveys; one for venues, one for local authorities and one for anyone working in dance and they are all available online at www.artscouncil.org.uk/dancemapping. Janet Archer, director of dance strategy, Arts Council England said, “Dance in this country is thriving; we're seeing new projects, audiences and investment emerging everywhere. That’ s great, but we need to pin down facts so we can monitor growth, and keep track of how dance performs against other art forms. If you’re involved in dance in England in any way we want to hear your comments and opinions. This is your chance to help gather the evidence needed to encourage greater investment in dance and create a vibrant future for dance.” The mapping project is due to be completed by March 2009.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 1 reply

Music Recommendation?

Ayperi — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 01:54:35 GMT

I'm looking for a fun Love-themed bellydance song for my bellydance drop-in class. Any suggestions? I usually choreograph a short combo for the students to learn, and it would be fun to do a special one for Valentines Day.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

anybody here teach in the CO Springs area?

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 05:54:07 GMT

If so, what type, and where can I find you?????

I want to take some more classes and find some people to dance and share with!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 7 replies

El Hobb Kollo - Olm Kalthoum (x-post)

Nadirah Johara — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 16:35:40 GMT

Anyone know the composer/orchestra or whomever for this clip of EL Hobb Kollo!
I CAN tell you its is NOT:
1. The Cairo Orchestra
2. Bassem Yezbek (Amani & the Badawist)
3. The track from Raqia Hassan's Dalaa El Helwee with Badia'a
I've searched iTunes as well...
Anyone know?
Please PM if you have any ideas who it could be or how to find out!
Thanks in advance!
xoxo,
Nadirah Johara
www.nadirahjohara.com

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 3 replies

I am considering teaching a Pre-Natal movement class

Indigo — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 22:06:36 GMT

I am considering teaching a Pre-Natal Specific BellyDance / Yoga Movement Class. I have studied quite of bit of Pre-Natal Movement and yoga these last 8 months and fully believe there is a need for a class such as this to get pregnant women moving at a appropriate pace and movement ability of women whom are pregnant. I am not Yoga certified however I am hoping to enroll into a year long program this fall. I have BellyDanced for many years performing and teaching and feel fully fine with the BellyDance portion. As well I feel fully fine helping pregnant women and understanding movements that are beneficial for pregnancy, their child, breathing, bonding, back pain, swollen ankles, balance and movements that can help with labor.
I guess I am wondering is there anything specific you would like to see in a course such as this? Any special consideration or concern? Any input or ideas you have would be helpful. Thank you, Indigo

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 2 replies

Is it just me?

Carol — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 13:52:21 GMT

Does anyone else have a static charge problem when working with silk veils? I recently purchased Shoshanna's Four Yard Veil DVD, which is really an excellent video both for instruction and inspiration, and was subsequently inspired to drag out my three yard silk veils that have been sitting around waiting to attack. The reason they are usually stored neatly out of the way is that when I try to work with them the static charge becomes so great that they do not float but rather cling to me and my costume.

Now I have tried spraying perfume and drifting the veil through, but I am not overly fond of having a veil that reeks of perfume and it was not effective in the long term anyway. I have also tried rubbing the veil with a dryer sheet with a similar lack of success.

In watching performances, I have noted that the majority of dancers using silk veils have bare arms and I wonder if that makes a difference. My arms are not going to be bare when I perform so I always practice with a choli or top of some sort to closely approximate the actual performance. Could the sleeves be the source of the problem?

Has anyone else experienced this and/or have a new idea for what to do about it? I have considered taking all the silk veils and throwing them in the dryer with a Dryel bag with that sheet and seeing what happens, but I am concerned that they might either shrink, shrivel, run, or completely fall apart.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 10 replies

Looking for Music

halleyah — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 23:28:13 GMT

I'm looking for suggestions for some Spanish fusion artists. Music that would be great for some Spanish fan work.

Halleyah

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 8 replies

Teaching Bellyrobics

Zahra — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 16:49:58 GMT

Have any of you ladies ever (or are currently) taught a belly robics class? I am wanting to start to put together a routine for myself to help me lose weight. If it works, I will probably want to start marketing it to healthclubs in my area. My question is, where do I start? I know a little bit about creating a cardio routine, but I want to ensure that this is highly effective, and very safe. Any ideas of resources I can use to help guide me? Where did you go (if you did at all) for the info before you started? Thank you!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 17 replies

Feeling connected to the music with tribal

jaiyana — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:12:09 GMT

I teach two levels of Improv Tribal - lots of Fat-Chance inspired moves sprinkled with other steps. I'm lucky enough to have live musicians in my intermediate level class. They themselves are students, and they use my class as practice time. It works out great for everyone, really.

However, sometimes I feel bad for my musicians, as the dancers don't appear to be connected to the music. They'll dance a fast combo to slow music, or appear to be moving to some other beat that isn't what the musicians are playing. Sometimes it's because they don't really have the combo or step in their bodies yet, but frequently it looks like they don't understand that they're *supposed* to be connecting with the music because the steps are a given.

A lot of these dancers have studied cabaret & folkloric with other teachers in the area, and I know that the other teachers talk a lot about musicality. So this can't be the first time these dancers have tried to feel the music and dance with it. But how do you teach musicality in Tribal format?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 22 replies

Where did Habibi Magazine go?

HeatherMarie — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:21:08 GMT

Dose anyone here know what happened to Habibi Magazine?

I subscribed to Habibi magazine in 2007 and received the winter 2006/2007....but after that NOTHING!
Dose anyone know if they had anymore magazines since the winter 2006/2007 and I just did not get them?
I have tried to contact them for a long long time, but the E-mails addresses that I have for them don't work and their website dosen't work anymore either.

DOSE ANYONE KNOW WHATS GOING ON?!!!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 3 replies

SADIE, KAYA, & FRANK SUMMER WORKSHOP SERIES!!!

Frank — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 02:40:02 GMT

SUMMER WORKSHOP SERIES 2009

SADIE & KAYA's 5th ANNUAL "SUMMER WORKSHOP SERIES" JULY 17th, 18th & 19th, 2009

Join Sadie and Kaya in beautiful Denver, Colorado for their “5th Annual Summer Workshop Series”. Experience three action packed days of intense training for dancers under Sadie & Kaya's exclusive "Tandem Training Method" format. The weekend will include the newest of Sadie & Kaya’s challenging technique and choreography, a master class for intermediate/advanced level dancers, a Samba class, two evening Gala shows and an exciting specialty workshop with Tribal sensation Frank Farinario of Colorado Springs, Colorado. All participants taking the full weekend of workshops will receive a 4 minute dance slot in the Friday night dance Hafla.

WORKSHOP & SHOW SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, JULY 17th, '09
6:30-8:00pm
"SAMBA No Pe"
REGISTRATION STARTS @ 6pm.

Start the weekend off with our most exciting and fun workshop. Energetic, pulsating rhythms and movements, the Samba No Pe is the soloist dance made infamous at Rio's Carnaval. Get an excellent cardio and fat burning workout, more than the average kickboxing class, while learning the technique of this exciting dance form. Belly Dancers, add some extra spice to your dance vocabulary. SAMBA!!
Bring slippers or socks as some peoples feet get sore. You can also bring heels if you would like to try the dance moves in them. We recommend platforms or a chunkier heel.

FRIDAY, JULY 17th, 2009
FRIDAY NIGHT DANCE HAFLA
8:30-10pm Location TBA
Dance performances by participants of the workshops and other featured guest artists.

SATURDAY, JULY 18th, 2009
"Pops, Locks & Layers"
10:00am-2:00pm
REGISTRATION STARTS@ 9:30am.

Pops, Locks & Layers will feature some of our newest and most challenging belly dance technique and combos. Pops, Locks & Layers is part of our "Tandem Training Method" and Belly Dance DVD Series, "Pops, Locks & Shimmies". Be prepared to sweat and work hard with a fun challenge.

LUNCH FROM 12-1pm

**Feature Workshop**
“Tribaret for all styles and levels”
with guest instructor Frank Farinario
1:00pm - 4:00pm

Here is what you’ll get:
*A brief tutorial on ATS, fusing elements of Tribal and Cabaret belly dance together and transitioning between the two.
*Funky Geometry, creating strange shapes and lines with the body creating the illusion of bonelessness and layering moves.

"SATURDAY NIGHT SPECTACULAR" SADIE & KAYA DANCE SHOW
A captivating themed dance show produced by Kaya and Sadie featuring all new choreographies and works of various dance forms as well as performances by guest artist Frank Farinario!
Location and time TBA

SUNDAY, JULY 19th, 2009
"Master Classes"
"Finger Cymbal technique and choreography" 11:00am-1:00pm

REGISTRATION STARTS @10:30am. In this master class, Sadie & Kaya will teach intricate zill technique and patterns. Then we'll put it all together into a challenging and exciting acappella finger cymbal and dance choreography. The class will be taught at the intermediate/advanced level however all dancers are welcome as the classes will be technique oriented. FINGER CYMABALS NEEDED, we will not have any for use.

LUNCH from 1pm-2pm

"Drum Solo technique and choreography" 2:00pm-4:00pm

Sadie & Kaya are known world wide as two of the best choreographers and performers of the drum solo. Now its time to put everything you have learned over the weekend into action with one of Sadie & Kaya's exciting NEW Drum Solo choreographies!!

WORKSHOP RATES

FRIDAY DAY RATE:
$ 35.00 Advanced registration (payments received by July 4th, 2009) or
$ 45.00 at the door

SATURDAY OR SUNDAY DAY RATE:
$ 90.00 Advanced registration (payments received by July 4th, 2009) or
$ 100.00 at the door

WEEKEND PACKAGE: (includes tickets to the Saturday Kaya & Sadie show)
$210 Advanced registration (payments received by July 4th, 2009) or
$235 at the door

***All dancers registering for the full weekend package will have a dance slot in the Friday night hafla show.

SATURDAY NIGHT “KAYA & SADIE” PRODUCTION:
(1 ticket included with purchase for package participants)
$15.00 Advanced purchase
$18.00 at the door

REGISTRATION
NO REFUNDS, early registration reserves space for you in the event.
You may register by sending advanced payment listed above to;

Sadie & Kaya
PO BOX 202411
Denver, CO 80220

***You can also make a credit card payment via PayPal, extra surcharges will apply. Contact us for details.

info@sadiebellydancer.com

or call 720-231-6629

LOCATION
ALL WORKSHOPS will be held at Colorado Ballet, 1278 Lincoln St., Denver, CO 80203. http://www.coloradoballet.org/index.cfm?go=c.page&id=10

Street and meter parking is available.

FRIDAY NIGHT HAFLA 8:30-10pm. Located at Sutra nightclub, 1109 Lincoln St., Denver, CO 80203 (Just across the street from Colorado Ballet)

Street and meter parking.

SATURDAY NIGHT GALA SHOW location and time TBA very soon!

TRAVEL
*Expedia is one of the best ways to find a flight to Denver via DIA (Denver International Airport), our main airport. Frontier and United are our city airlines and have many direct affordable flights.

*Denver is a big city so unless you book a hotel very near the studio and shows, you may end up paying more than expected for taxis. The best option is probably a rental car which you can pick up at the airport. Public transit is another option. You can look them up at RTD.

* For hotel or lodging, type in the zip code 80203 into your hotel search to find the hotel availability nearest the dance studio and show location. The studio is located just a few blocks from Downtown Denver.

*If you are interested in sharing a room or rental car with another dancer, please let us know and we will try to put you in contact with other interested dancers.

* Denver is a fun city. Be sure to google search some of the activities you can do while visiting like our museum, mountains, 6 Flags Elitch Gardens, etc.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

Belly Dance Games

GypsyRose — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 01:03:16 GMT

hello to all the beautiful ladies in the belly dance instructors tribe x

i am doing some work for a local establishment where i put on fun and informal introduction to belly dance evenings,
usually the women are out on a hen night or a birthday party, they are a bit tipsy (or getting there) dressed up in their best clothes, so not a usual lesson scene,
i usually just go over the basics focusing on fun moves like the vertical chest circles and shimmies etc then play a few games and teach a little routine,

but i was wondering if anyone had any cool games that they play with their classes that you think could transfer well into this kind of environment...

many thanks,

Rosa x

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 1 reply

moderator on vacation

Teresa-P — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:32:18 GMT

Hello All and Happy Holidays!

I will be away from Dec.24th through Dec. 31....so please play nice.

Thank you!
Teresa

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 2 replies

Bellydance Robots

Chayne — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:08:01 GMT

Hey ladies!

My two troupes at Rutgers auditioned for a special Rutgers Event where we get to dance at the State Theater in New Brunswick NJ! I am soo excited about it and am so proud of all the girls that worked hard to get it :).

The problem is that most of them are beginners or have only been dancing a few years and so they practiced with that wonderful look of "I'm concentrating on the movements! Don't bother me, just look at me go!"

I was wondering if anyone had techniques to help their students SHOW that they are passionate about their dance.

Here is what I've tried:
1. Visualization about how the music makes you feel (worked once, I guess I'll have to do it every time?)
2. Reminding them over and over and making eye contact with them while they dance- trouble is it only lasts about thirty seconds
3. I got desperate and made them "fake smile" whenever they practiced ... Still not working.

Lastly, we have two troupes- one cultural (as in Egyptian/Turkish) and one Tribal Fusion. I don't know how to tell the tribal group to look other than "intense" with tension in their faces. Maybe showing videos of the great troupes out there will help? I'm not sure what else to do other than to maybe invite Tyra Banks from America's top model...

Thanks in advance for your help!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 7 replies

Prenatal Bellydance

Margaret — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 17:21:18 GMT

I've been teaching bellydance for about 4 years now and have had only one pregnant woman so far. I was thinking recently that it might be nice to do a full 8-10 week class of bellydance specifically for expectant Moms. I know there's at least one dvd on this topic, haven't seen it except for a short youtube clip. And obviously I don't want to use this dvd as a basis for my own class.
Has anyone else taught a class like this that wouldn't mind sharing their experiences with it, and give me some ideas on a class outline that will be enjoyable but safe for the students? I would also be insterested in finding some warm-ups/cool-downs that would also be useful and safe for them. If you don't want to share your class outline to everyone on the tribe please feel free to message me. I would love to offer a class for pregnant women that would give them gentle exercise, fun and socializing with other Moms to be, and let them have a place to show the beauty they posess at such a wonderful time. Thanks so much!
Margaret

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 12 replies

Idea for a class

Ali — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 19:43:49 GMT

Hi everybody,
I'm about to start teaching at a new studio, and something occurred to me recently. I taught my last classes at a gym, and had about a 50/50 divide of women in their late teens and 20's with some dance experience, or at least pretty adept coordination. The other half were older, middle aged women, who were mostly out of shape and had a much harder time catching on. I created a second intermediate class for the girls who were more advanced to stay challenged in. Even so, in my beginner class, it was sometimes hard to balance between helping the older women who were struggling, and challenging those that learned faster, but were still beginning dancers.
I've been reading a lot about health concerns for women as they reach menopause lately, such as arthritis and osteoperosis, etc. What I'm wondering is, would it be appropriate to cater a class just for older women? I would want this class to move at a slower pace, and address some of the movement limitations, that most younger dancers are not faced with. Is there a respectful way to go about this, without creating a segregation mentality? I don't want to exclude anyone, but I'd like my students to get the most out of my classes, and I like for everyone to have the most positive, healing experience of belly dance that they possibly can. Thanks for your feedback, loves.

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 17 replies

Bellydance Freeze Tag

europamoon — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 14:47:19 GMT

AT the end of my advanced class I always give them a creative exercise, here is one I cam up with a few months ago, just a twist on the old freeze tag!
This is a super fun way to "cool" down or just have fun in your class!
I call out the street address #s of the person to be "it"
so most don't know who "it" is,
Rules, you must bellydance at all times, so this is a great exercise in moving steps, if you get frozen twice your "it", and so the game goes. Also must strike beautiful pose when frozen.

My students love it, it always ends in riotus laughther!!

enjoy
Europamoon

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 50 replies

Improv help

Samira — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 15:32:01 GMT

OK teachers here is a new dilemma.... I have a new job... that's a good thing but it will keep me on the road alot ! Here's the bad...I will need to take a hiatus from structured class and I am hoping that this will give me a chance to work on improv but I am not sure how....

I will be in some very isolated communites in Ontario Canada and I will have my computer and dance DVD's but not much more space to dance then a little hotel room !!

I would love to take this opportunity to learn improv since no one will be around and it won't matter how goofy I look and since space is limited... but I have no idea how to start with basics for improv...There seems to be very little out there on what basic core things I should be doing or looking at ...music? steps? repetition?

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated...

I have been dancing for about 4 years and am an intermediate student but i will have lots of time in the evenings now for practice so don't be shy about giving me lots of work !

Samira

P.S. I don't want to look like i have just gone to a bar and just let it happen kind of dancing... a little more structure then that is what I am hoping for !

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 15 replies

BeLLy HoLidaY ChAlleNge

Lady_Morrighan — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:58:47 GMT

Salutations dahlin's

Each year, I extend the Holiday challenge to troupes to perform at their local nursing home or childrens hospital. I'm a little late getting the message out this year (school was very demanding this semester), so if it's too tight... go for New Years, or plan something now for Valentine's Day. I think it's important that we dance for the joy it brings and these venues will certainly deck the halls with joy. Bring everyone! All your students, basics to advanced - have them bring their families. Fill the place up with friendly faces. If they don't want to dance, they can mingle with the people, pass out candy, or hugs. It can be VERY casual and you will still be deeply appriciated.

Happy Holiday with Peace & lalalalaLoVe for all!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 4 replies

belly dance for pregnant women

Hilde — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 19:32:44 GMT

Hi everyone,

I have an interview with a very respectable dance community in my area, after I received a job description through my email. They were looking for a dance teacher for pregnant women, they wanted to look for a fun class that is suitable for women in any part of their pregnancy, so I thought belly dance would be perfect for this, as most classes like this in my area are yoga classes.

I have an interview with them next month, and wanted to spend the time before that to get as much info as possible. I know there are some video's out, but first of all I wanted to check here as well, to see if any of you have already started a class just for pregnant women? Is there anything in particular I should be careful about, such as insurance, injuries, ... I want to be really well informed on this aspect. I have never been pregnant before and have no idea (except for common sense) which movements are really good and which are really bad for them. I am pretty sure any belly dance movements are fine: such as undulations, hip circles, hip locks (but no sharp locks or shimmies), figure eights,... however I am not so sure on traveling steps (maybe it is damaging to be on the toes for too long? or spinning may take them off balance or dizzy?) but I am not so sure on strengthening exercises and stretches. I read on the shira website that in a certain part of the pregnancy you have to be careful with certain stretches as it can damage you for life.

Do you think it is a good idea to have them sign a claim to cover my insurance?

Which other tips do you all have regarding this?

thank you!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 2 replies

Reminder- NO SPAM

Teresa-P — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 01:00:46 GMT

Please...let's keep this tribe focused on discussions. If you have something to sell, a class or event to offer, etc. etc. please post them in the appropriate sections.

Thanks!

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 0 replies

When is it appropriate to say "I've studied with X"?

akashaafsana — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 19:21:58 GMT

I am not a teacher, but I am an intermediate dance student. I wondered when it is ok to say "I've studied with so-and-so" when putting it on a dance resume. I ask b/c I've seen that listed in peoples resumes (people I might take classes from) after taking a single 2 to 4 hour class with a world-traveling professional dance instructor (i.e. Jillina, Moria, Bozenka, Rachel, etc). I guess, as a student, I would read that phrase as the instructor has studied for more of an extensive time period than a few hours. I find that misleading in regards to their experience with that instructor or dance style taught, especially when they are switching from one dance style to a new one, one that I've been studying longer than they have.

I am not flaming anyone, so I hope all the responses will be constructive. I just wonder if there is "protocol" when listing what your experiences are. For example, if you've taken one class with someone, do you say "also taken workshops with: ...". Possibly following more lengthy studies with instructors.

Thoughts?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 26 replies

to find a drum

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 01:57:22 GMT

Where to find a reasonable doumbek?

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 11 replies

A warm hello!

DancingOracle — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:09:01 GMT

Hi everyone! I just want to say hello as I have finally joined this tribe. I teach in Lawrenceville, GA and have slowly started making my way as a workshop instructor. There are so many great threads in this group, I can spend hours going through them, and I look forward to spending many more hours reading all the new ones. :)

posted in Belly Dance Instructors - 1 reply

Belly Dance Instructors's topics - tribe.net

student show performance order

Maintaining Students

Student bored and frustrated

X-Post: Forming and managing a student troupe

What do you wear to teach?

Improvisational bellydance- feedback, how to, teaching tips?

Book Recommendations

Drum Solo with Nanna Candelaria - belly dance

ideas for class - need inspiration!

Back and Knee issues

Israeli music

Assessing private students

Starkville Mississippi?

How to teach my favorite type of student

HELP! looking for formal studies, surveys re belly dance benefits

How cool is this...

Advice on a weird email

back to basics for beginners

Breathwork

videos and availability

design a teacher training program (quality standards spin off)

What About Us Out in the Sticks?

teaching from home

Outrageous students requests

Studio drama

Shamadan music

Hi y'all, I'm new!

Music - looking for something really upbeat, help!

Frustrations...thoughts?

Interview with Petite Jamilla

Glide step

Buffalo Middle Eastern Dance Festival

Becoming a teacher...?

Trying harder

Quality standards in teaching dance

Looking for Seattle Bellydance Instructors

Overly motivated students? ACCKKK!!!

the old belly dance vs. burlesque thing

All-time greats

updates on new kids classes...thanks you guys!

Natural dancers vs. not

How do you handle beginners classes/different levels

Does this sound fishy to anyone else?

Beginners classes - how to make a couple of new moves last a whole class....

punch cards vs. tuition

International Bellydance Congress in UK

What's the make-up of a GREAT workshop?

more fishiness (is that a word?)

Greek/Bellydance Circle-Where Do You Begin?

Private classes *help!*

The Economy

Names for individual moves

Books

Troupe Advice NEEDED!!! Thank you!

Managing student development

Ideas to attract and hold students??

Insurance?

New Tribe: Bellydance Troupe Talk

Squee!! My new promotional video is up!! Check it out, yo!!

teaching while pregnant

Teaching Rhythms - When to do it?

teaching objective.

what's better (for continueing education)...

Chiftitelly Recommndations?

I hope

A NEW GAME IDEA

This isn't funny (OK yes it is)

An Open Letter to Belly Dance Instructors....

Striving to Improve

clicking bones

Student with Injury Question

Belly dance instructor or Academy in Venezuela

need a tribal instructor in kansas

Advise for working with women with eating disorders

teaching course plan???

Is this wrong?????

Arts Council England Survey-Who Knew? x post

Music Recommendation?

anybody here teach in the CO Springs area?

Private classes help!