BD,

Excellent advice!

Note: You don't just have to go to a studio. I bet if you check at your local dance supply shops you'll find lots of pamphlets for very qualified teachers that aren't affiliated with a studio.

Reason?

The studios can't afford to pay them to their qualifications.

OB

Thank You to everyone who replied to my inquiry. I appreciate the knowledge and experience of all of those who have replied. This is such a wonderful site.......

I have scheduled a lesson with an independant teacher who comes highly recommended........and think that I will take some group classes at the independant studio where I attended the parties. It is difficult to think about cutting ties with a teacher that I am fond of.........unfortunately, his remarks about only taking classes there has jeopardized out future dance relationship.

I am going to take my time and see what feels right for me. Thank You again everyone.........great advice.

When we were taking lessons at FADS, they would asks us about the places we went dancing, so they could share the information with other couples. They were pleased that we were practising on our own and going dancing once a week.

You must remember that although a chain studiom each FADS studio is run by an individual(or directors as they call them)

We take international instructions at FADS twice a week, and take smooth instruction with an independent coach. Both coaches understand what we are doing and there is no conflict at all. We speak about it openly, certainly it is no secret! Fads helps us to prepare for independent comps and when doing a FADS comp our smooth coach helps us to prepare for these. I do agree that to many coaches can be cofusing, thus our two styles of dance never cross instructors. I love what each coach gives us equally, and it works.

And yes, absolutely you own that routine... Dance it where ever you want.

If the very best Professional or Amatuer competitors were bound to one teacher they would not be the best. That is a simple fact of life

Not true--- e.g.-- an English formation team, had the same coach for many yrs and won the B/ Pool Form. Champ. 3 consecutive yrs . ( he was , in fact, my childhood teacher )

You would not be able mention one couple either Amatuer or Professional who got to the top of their tree and only went to one teacher. It just is not possible.
Formation dancing. Very nice to watch and to be a part off. But everybody has to be regimented. There can be no idividual flair. I doubt that if the group went into an Oversway no couple would look any different to the other.If you see what i mean.