I’m a beginner. How do I get started?
Aria Ballroom’s Introductory Special is the most effective way to get started since it includes a group class, a private lesson, and a dance party. While this is the best value, Aria also offers many beginner level group classes designed specifically for students who have never danced before, or who need a brush up after a few years off. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions, as we are more than happy to assist you in determining what is the best fit for you.
Do I need bring a partner?
No. You are certainly more than welcome to bring a partner, however, it is not necessary. In group classes instructors will ask the students to rotate partners frequently, and dancing with a variety of partners is the best way to quickly learn to lead and follow.
What if I don’t want to rotate partners during class?
No problem, just let your teacher know at the beginning of class. Please keep in mind that rotating partners is strongly encouraged as it is the best way to quickly learn lead and follow.
What is a ‘lead’ or a ‘follow’?
In partner dancing, there is always someone who leads and someone who follows. Traditionally, the man is the lead and the lady is the follow, but often partners like to switch roles so as to better understand their own dancing. If you want to take a particular class in the opposite role, just let your teacher know at the beginning of class.
What if I only need to dance for my wedding?
We offer lesson packages specifically for couples preparing for their wedding dance. For more information please go to our Wedding Dances page.
What should I wear for my wedding dance lesson?
Wear clothes and shoes comfortable for moving around in. For men, we recommend casual slacks and shoes such as loafers. For ladies, we recommend loose fitting slacks and shoes that are comfortable to move in. Heels are fine, but stiletto or metal heels are not allowed on our hardwood floor. Tight-fitting skirts are not recommended.
Do you teach children? What is the minimum age?
Absolutely! We have a Teddy Bear Childre’s Program beginning at age 4-8, and a Youth Program that caters to children ages 9-21. For children younger than 5, we recommend that you enroll them in a gymnastics or ballet program for toddlers until they are old enough. What are the rules and policies for the Teddy Bear and Youth Programs?
What’s the difference between group classes and private lessons?
Group classes are generally open to everyone with the appropriate ability level, and are scheduled at a regular time each week. Private lessons are scheduled individually on a one-on-one basis. If I already have some dance experience, how can I tell which class level is best for me?
How do I sign up for a private lesson?
If you want a lesson with a particular instructor, you can request a lesson anytime by using our online lesson request form. You can also call or email that instructor directly. If you do not have a particular instructor in mind, you can call the studio, talk to our receptionist in person, or email info@ariaballroom.com and we will match an instructor to you.
When can I take a private lesson?
Private lessons are scheduled directly with your instructor and are available during open studio hours, except during the Youth classes and our weekly parties. Please contact us for availability.
What should I wear? Do I need special shoes?
Wear comfortable clothing. We suggest casual slacks or other loose fitting clothes. We do not recommend jeans, but if you want to wear them, that is not a problem. Ballroom shoes are not required but are recommended for those who dance frequently. Next to dance shoes, casual dress shoes are best, but ladies, we don’t allow stiletto or metal heels on our hardwood floors.
What if I want to compete or do shows, but I don’t have a partner?
No problem! There is a competition category called “Pro/Am”, in which an student dances competitions or shows with an instructor, but only the student is judged. If you are interested in dancing Pro/Am events, please contact us about your options and goals.
What is the difference between “American Style” and “International Style”?
If you’d like a more detailed description of the styles, you can find more information on our Dance Styles page.
What is the practice policy?
We encourage all of our students to practice what they learn and thus have one of the most flexible practice policies. You can practice anytime during open hours as long as you are a regular private lessons or group class student (1 private lesson per week or 2 group classes per week). We do not offer practice for fee as we save as much space for our hard working students. If you are coming for just one class you are welcome to come 45 minutes earlier to warm-up.
Return and Cancellation
What if I want a refund on my purchased classes or lessons?