A Tribute to Dance Teachers and Studio Owners Everywhere!
''Think about this…Dance teachers lift students up by giving them hope and inspiration through dance education!
No matter where you live in the world, I would be willing to bet you will find a dance studio in some town nearby. And while in many cases they may be taken for granted and some people in the town may not know anything about what goes on in these sacred establishments, we do!
Thousands of hours are spent on plies, pas de bourrées, pirouettes, grand jete’s, développés and that’s only scratching the surface. There are many other styles of dance being taught in each dance studio by eager and passionate dance teachers who are sharing their love of dance. Students of all ages are developing strength, enhancing coordination, musicality, improving flexibility, balance and learning full dance routines and then having the courage to get on stage and perform!
But as dance teachers, we know that is only what people see on the outside. What dance training builds on the inside outweighs any step or dance routine learned. And that is for students of all ages! Important life enhancing skills are being propped up, reinforced and built. Improved self-esteem, problem solving skills and enhanced self-awareness. Having a better understanding of teamwork and realizing that hard work can not only be fun but equals results. The synergy of all of this coming together is powerful to say the least. And these are just some of the all-important life lessons learned. After 30+ years of being a dance studio owner and dance teacher I have seen first hand from alumni who come back to visit. From doctors to CEO’s to lawyers, professional dancers, body builders and moms, they all attribute a big part of their growth, success and happiness in life to their time at our studio.
Yes, it is true. Dance studios are an important part of the fabric of any community.
They are an institution of higher education where children are not only learning the art of dance but the art of life. Dance education lifts students up giving them hope and inspiration. Students who partake in dance lessons are better listeners. They also understand that everyone will have a unique way of self-expression and are more tolerant of people’s differences. Yes, the education part is huge for these students and will leave an everlasting mark on their lives, but it doesn’t end there!
Dance evokes inspiration and is something that gives joy and happiness as well as a spirit of hopefulness. It also creates awe in both the performer and the person watching. Studies have shown that experiencing awe and inspiration makes us more prone to positive behavior towards others. We are less likely to care exclusively about ourselves after experiencing the feeling of awe and we feel better connected as a part of a larger whole. It is a self-transcendent emotion alongside compassion and gratitude that some researchers believe helped us evolve as humans and gives us the ability to care for one another, cooperate and coordinate as a group.
Now how important is that now a days!
Studies by several Universities have shown that students who are involved in the arts are:
• 3 times more likely to win an achievement award
• 4 times more likely to be recognized for outstanding leadership
• 5 times more likely to be promoted in the work force
• Demonstrate improved time management and lower dropout rates
And some people think we are just teaching dance steps!
The next time someone comes into your studio to questions whether the time and money spent at the studio is worth it, feel free to share this article with them!
In light of what has transpired over the last year during this pandemic, dance teachers have stepped up and have helped on so many levels. Making sure their students have continued to train remotely and enjoy some normalcy during this extraordinary time. Most studio owners and dance teachers are operating at a loss… A BIG LOSS! But they are continuing on because they know and understand the importance of dance and the joy and love it brings to their students. And yes, we selfishly are also winning because teaching nourishes our souls and makes us feel whole again. But we also know that our students come first. Dance teachers are the most giving people I know. And not just of their expertise but of their love for their students.
Mentors, trainers, coaches and surrogate parents are just some of the labels I would use to describe a dance teacher. This truly is an honorable profession you are a part of and we salute you for all you have done and will be doing moving forward. People in your town should know all of this about you. It’s time to spread the good word about your dance studio!
Nothing will compare to the life-long connection I have built with many amazing students who are now adults.
I wouldn’t trade in being a dance teacher and studio owner for anything.
I applaud you for all of your hard work so please take a bow and remember you do make a BIG difference in this world
Here’s to your success!'' (article from Dance Teacher)
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