Teaching Locations
As a dance Instructor, I've worked in many situations, cities, and states. I've worked for studios under contract (teach and perform for them only) and I've worked as an independent instructor renting many different spaces.
The situation I have now is very fun and unique! I look for lower cost urban locations that are ample to the space we need to accomplish a wedding routine or general lesson. I try to get a variety of spots all over town, and they may change. This works best for busy people because we can book at rehearsal venues and unique locations all over town! Sometimes, coffee shops, sometimes studios, I try to keep locations that are close-in to bus & bike routes, and yet accissible by car and very near the freeways.
NW Portland - latest 6:30pm -World Cup Coffee & Tea NW 18th and NW Glisan (Lovely Conference Room w/ hardwoods)
SW Portland - Various Hours (Private Lessons Only)
Lloyd Center - Sundays Only (Satin & Latin Studios)
SE Portland - Duff's Garage 1635 SE 7th @ Market (group lessons) Livie Music Venue
I have found that not sharing a room with other instructors during private lessons (as is so customary in studios), has been a welcome reduction in distraction for teaching! After so many hours of teaching you start wanting awesome results from all your students, because you know they can give them to you. I have found the less distraction, the better you learn! Which is why I love teaching private group lessons the most. Though I'm requested for group classes a lot, and teach a few each month.
Lessons IN YOUR HOME
If we decide that your home is a good meeting space, that means you need a clear slick 12x12 foot area to rehearse in. No dogs, or kids can be there for your 1 hr. lesson, sorry! This would make it way too hard for you to concentrate, and believe me, I speak from experience!
Note to Wedding Couples: When possible, you should dance in your actual space, with your actual shoes at least one time to really bring everything together! If you need to reserve (at least an hour) or so with them, do so immediately! This after we complete the routine a few days before your wedding. When performing, the less unknown the better, get to know your space!
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