13/05/2020
Category: lessons-rock-n-roll

The appearance of virtual dance classes is probably a permanent shift. They do have one BIG advantage that could help them to really rock!

Even when lockdown ends, online dance sessions will probably be a permanent addition to the world of rock 'n' roll dance. While they may not completely replace face-to-face lessons at this point, they offer advantages that could actually help to guarantee the long-term future of our dance styles.

The big pluses are that you don't need to leave home and you can tune in to classes being held anywhere - even in different states and countries. That means you are not limited in choice of classes. You can easily try sessions held by a variety of instructors and choose the ones you like the best. It's no longer a problem if a class close to your home shuts down either for a period or permanently. The next one is no further away than your computer. Alternatively, you could watch through your television if you know how to rig that up. If you don't know how, your kids can probably do it for you quickly and with ease.

Admittedly, this is just one dimension to dancing. There's no substitute for the personal interactions and ability to dance with a range of partners that our venue-based dancing sessions provide. However, I have always maintained that people learning to dance would gain a very great deal of experience and in-depth understanding if they simply practised moves and steps at home even without a partner. Dance amounts to moving freely and easily in time with the music. The more you practice doing that, even just with simple movements such as a back-step, the better the connections become between your ears, your brain and your feet.

To help dancers connect with others virtually if they wish, I am adding a new section for the publicising of virtual dance classes and sessions. Anyone hosting one is welcome to forward details to my facebook page https://www.facebook.com/rocknrolldance The audience is worldwide, so you could gain a few followers from overseas.