Thank you all for the response. I think I am going to finish out the lessons that I have and look for other options. Maybe trying to go to Atlanta once a week and then talk to one of the local groups about additional lessosn here once a week. I really enjoy lessons and have been going three times a week here, but do not feel what I am getting is worth the money!

Thank Jacob

Jacob, and any others in this situation.

I am so sorry you are having that situation. People like that give ballroom a bad rep. You should never pay more that $12 n hour. I live in Warner Robins, GA. I take lessons here, in Macon and Perry. They rage from $12/hr on the high end to $10/2hrs. I have all the info for this area. Write me at: UNVCandy@Yahoo.com or call my cell at 478/919-0624
Yours ~ Carl

Hi Carl, I have found a few of the places that offer the $10 to $12 group lessons, but I am really looking for somewhere I can take private lessons as well to speed up the learning curve as much as possible. I will call you later and see what local ideas you may have.

thanks, jacob

I live in Alabama. I take private lessons from a chain. My lessons are $82 for 45 minutes. It sounds like you are paying way too much for what you are getting.

Jacob:
Forgot to add this to my last post. I figured up what it cost me weekly. For $97 per week: I get a 45 minute private lesson, a 45 minute group class, and an hour practice party.
I hope this helps you. It seems you are really being charged too much for what you are getting.

So are you !

Hit the local dance shops and look for info on private independent teachers.

ISTD or similar National Certification vs. In House certification is a good starting point to investigate.

This does not mean they are better teachers. We've taken lessons with a former US National Professional Smooth Champion ($65/hour + hall costs). He's not certified but there's no denying his credentials.

Talk to people in the dance shops and you'll get a good idea where to start looking.

You can also check out universities, community colleges, YM/YWCA and community centres for group classes and ballroom clubs. Talking to people there can be helpful. You usually don't have to be a university student to join the university club.

Avoid the "Cult" followings: Teachers who are popular because they teach a million steps. You want teachers who put you into competition and produce placings and not just teach you steps.

95% of what group classes teach is ankles down.

95% of what you need to know is ankles up.

OB

Where i take lessons, it is only $87 a week for two forty-five min. private lessons, unlimited group lessons and a 2 1/5 hour practice party. but im in Connecticut, so that is far from you.

Now THATS value !!!!!

Do yourself a favor and go to the Atlanta Competition on the 8th through the 10th. You will see some great dancing and some wonderful teachers. Watch the Pro-Am competitions. Ask for cards! Talk to students. You will soon find out who are some of the best teachers in your area. I live in Arizona and pay 90 dollars for 45 minutes but take from a seasoned professional who is in my opinion one of the best in the state.