About
My service stands out because dance has been an integral part of my life. I started at the age of 3 at a small studio in Inman, SC, and then began instructing dance at the age of 16. My passion for all things dance led me to own and operate my own studio for 15 years. The Rising Star Dance Company studio, under my leadership, instructed hundreds of adults and children between 1999-2015.
Dance is a skill that not everyone is blessed with. I am blessed with the ability, and to instruct others on how to dance. Seeing my students achieve their goals and objectives through dance gives me great joy!
Highlights
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Timothy W.
Shea H.
Kenneth R.
Glenn O.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The most important part of working with a new student is to first understand their goals and objectives. Having a good understanding of where they are, and where they’d like to be, helps me develop a personalized curriculum that focuses on a certain technique. I am very student focused, and work diligently to ensure that each student receives the level of instruction they are comfortable with, while at the same time challenging them to exceed their current abilities.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
In both 2001 and 2002, I traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada for the annual Dance Educators of America Advanced Teacher Certification Program. After close to 200 hours of training, and instruction, I received my Level I and Level II accreditation from the Dance Educators of America.
In 2011, I traveled to Atlanta, GA for the MusicWorks Unlimited Teacher-Only Seminar. This 3-day program contained continuing education for those that owned and operated their own dance studio, which I did for 15 years in Inman, SC.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My private lessons range from $50 - $75 per session, per group ( not per person) are one (1) hour in length, and is in line with the market rate per private session. In a majority of cases, I travel to the student and the lessons are done in the privacy of their home.
How did you get started teaching?
I first started taking dance instruction at the age of 3 at a small studio in Inman, SC. My passion for dance led me to teaching and instructing at the age of 16 where I taught tap, jazz, and ballet.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught a wide range of students which include wedding couples, bridal parties, actors, and children.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
For a few months in 2017 I had the unique experience of instructing creative movement to Kensie Ravenel, daughter of Thomas Ravenel and Kathryn Dennis. With that came having one of my classes with her airing on an episode of Southern Charm.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Understand what your goals and objectives are, and look to hire an instructor that will best help you get there.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Why do you want to take lessons? What is it that you want to achieve?