I just want to thank all those people on here who have offered advice regarding chain studios over the last couple years. I had been with a chain for a while, and was looking for a change. I found an independent in my area which has turned out to be really amazing, and has motivated me even more to improve my dancing. Without this site, I don't think I would have had the knowledge of what's out there to know what I should expect from a studio.

I don't mean to come off as being negative towards the franchises. In some cases, they are wonderful places to be. But, for me, I'm very very happy and excited to be where I am now.

Thanks again.

Free dancer,

What specifically do you like better about the independent you are with? I am considering changing after my (lengthy) contract with a chain is up (even though I will continue to pay the chain through June of next year).

The main reason I want to switch is the money, and how the staff's obsession with money/booking lessons is more important than the dancers' improvement and enjoyment. Granted it is a business, but it is so extreme!

Is there anything you miss about the chain?

Sorry to hear about that long contract you're in. Read the fine print in your contract, you may be able to break it for a fee.

The biggest problem with the instruction I had at my chain studio was that they seemed to only be able to teach the school syllabus patterns. There was some technique taught, but for the most part, I felt like I was learning steps that I could only lead my instructor through. Dancing is about movement, not memorized step patterns.

The place I'm at now has better private instruction. Better group classes. Better practice parties (because the students know how to dance). And, better prices. I'll miss some of the people I grew to know. But, the place I'm at now seems to have lots of freindly people as well, so I'm sure I'll make new friends.

Good luck with your situation. It's hard to break away, I know. Dancing is a very personal thing, and one gets attached to their studio. I would recommend you check out other places. Take a couple privates, go to a group class or two, and attend a party.

Thanks. I agree with you. I am female, but found the same thing --- that it is more difficult to dance with men outside the chain because they don't know the same step patterns.

I read the contract and it did say the student can terminate the contract for a fee. Any idea of how much that can be?

I love the people I dance with, but won't miss them too much. We all go to other studios' socials and workshops! I will definitely see them.

I've heard the fee can be up to 25% of the contract, which would have to be insanely high for a year's worth of lessons. It's kind of a catch 22 if you ask them, because on the one hand, you'll know the price, and on the other, they'll know you're thinking of leaving. Maybe someone else here could give you a better idea.

Good luck

I am a male dancer, have been dancing for about 6 years. I have a hard time leading ladies that are tought at chain schools, all they know are patterns. Most of the women I can dance with are tought at independent schools. I started at an independent school and glad I did.
Good luck on your dancing.