Some 10 years I went to dance lessons with my wife at whichtime Karen was assisting the main teacher and it was apparent back then thatshe was very capable in terms of helping others. Unfortunately for me at thetime I found it very difficult to get even the basics and whilst my wife wasextremely competent I was getting increasingly frustrated that I did not seemto be progressing.
Whilst I certainly did not blame the dance teacher at thetime we eventually moved to another dance class to see if that would help anddespite being determined to improve it was apparent that I was just not gettingit!
There followed a period of time where I inevitably lostinterest but out of the blue Karen got in touch to say that she was starting anew class locally following her qualifications in Ballroom and Latin danceteaching.
I can’t say that my improvement was immediate but Karen hada way of demonstrating the key basics which once learned served to allowquicker progress – and a sense of confidence to get to the next level. Beforetoo long I found myself enjoying dance lessons for the first time because thefootwork in particular was becoming more natural and with it a greater sense ofassurance.
I was, however, keen to take the next step so to speak so Iasked Karen about taking medals so that through practical based Latin and Ballroomlessons I would be ready to pass exams in all the relevant dances.
To date I have completed bronze, silver and gold Latin –with good passes - along with bronze and silver Ballroom and I am now embarkingon my last medal – gold Ballroom. These medals obviously require greater competencein specific technique and whilst it has been a difficult process it hasdefinitely been worthwhile & rewarding.
My journey as far as medals are concerned are nearing an end but the ultimate aim is to keep progressing and enjoying the experience of dance.
by Alan Mayes
