For most group class clients, an important element in the enjoyment of the class comes from the music that is played. It’s important for partner dance instructors to remember that a good selection of music, played frequently during the class, will inspire and energize their students.
No matter which dance is being taught, good music choices have:
- an easy beat to hear. The less a student has to concentrate on finding the beat, the better.
- some familiarity. In this age of cover songs and mash-ups, there are many versions of favorite and familiar songs.
- the ability to inspire the right mood for the dance. Whether the dance is sultry, bouncy, or classic, make sure the music reflects it.
To get your clients to dance their way out of the room, to groove long after they’ve walked away, and get them excited to return for more, remember:
- to keep your library fresh.
- that your students want to dance to music they would like or may have heard before, not just your personal favorites.
For example, in an Argentine tango class, using a classing song like “La Cumparsita” or “El Choclo” is useful since most people are familiar with the tunes and they reflect the mood of the tango well. It doesn’t matter that the songs themselves are rarely played socially. The purpose they serve – to inspire your students – is paramount.
