About
Professional private and group lessons in the art of classical oriental belly dance. Jasmin is a world renowned artist, has lived and worked globally performing and teaching on a full time basis, and is the leader of oriental dance training in the Chicago area. Check out her credentials on www.jasminjahal.com and see what Pure Raks belly dance classes are like at www.pureraks.com
I love seeing how my students' self esteem blossoms when they explore their femininity and find stress relief in a beautiful ancient art form. Every kind of woman, all ages and backgrounds, all sizes and nationalities, can be fit, sexy and classy.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
New students who have never tried belly dance before are encouraged to take the Beginner level classes. This level introduces the isolations needed to perform the movements well, a well rounded list of steps, an introduction to using a veil and playing finger cymbals. Within two 6-week sessions, the new dancer will be able to perform two routines and has built a strong foundation for more advanced dance steps and knowledge.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I started belly dancing in 1978 and mentored with two famous Middle Eastern choreographers. They taught me how to be a full time professional dancer, not a hobbyist. I have 4 decades of teaching experience and a life time of experience in dance performance. I am owner and operator of the only purely classical school of belly dance in the Chicago area. I am the founder of a unique dance certification program for teachers. I am one of the few American artists who has lived overseas and continues to perform and teach in Europe and in the Middle East.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Weekly classes are offered within a 6-week session. If you register for 5 classes, you get the 6th class free. Or, you can sign up for sincle classes. Private lessons are also available and the rate depends upon the frequency and length of the lessons, set up per individual.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching belly dance in 1983, after having studied for 5 years both with local dancers and with famous choreographers from Lebanon and Egypt. My first class was at a dance studio where I had been studying belly dance for several years, after the instructor moved to Europe.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all types of dancers, at all ages, from children through seniors. No other dance experience is necessary. You only need to bring your enthusiasm and curiousity to explore your femininity and have fun while getting a great workout that creates a beautiful hour glass shape.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I produce an annual belly dance event called Chicago Shimmyfest. It provides workshops in various topics and an opportunity for dancers to perform in professional theaters. This event has drawn dancers from all over the world, and puts belly dance in a respected, elegant venue to be enjoyed by all.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would advise them to seek out a skilled instructor, one who really knows her stuff and has actual firsthand personal experience working as a professional performer and instructor. The teacher with many years experience has the most to offer students, because she has lived her passion. Also, look for an instructor who is proud of her own dance lineage and has successfully produced other professional dancers. Beware that just because someone looks good doesn't mean they are a good instructor! Take a class, ask other students in the class for their opinion, look up testimonials, check out the instructor's resume'.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Request a private time for a discussion, when both you and the instructor can focus on your specific needs. This may be a phone appointment or a scheduled in-person meeting. If you are clear about your needs, the instructor should be happy to work with you on them. Only then will you know if you and the instructor are a good match. Your needs should include your current level of dance experience and what your goals are.