How to Be Dance Teacher - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 1, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Dance teachers are essential in helping budding dancers to develop their abilities and technique. Being a dance teacher requires a special skill set, such as knowledge of different dance styles, an understanding of anatomy and kinesiology, and the ability to effectively communicate with students. With these skills, dance teachers can provide students with a positive learning environment and the motivation to improve their skills.

In turn, this can lead to higher levels of performance and ultimately, a successful career in dance. Furthermore, the knowledge and experience gained from working with a dance teacher can help students to develop a greater appreciation for the art and profession of dance.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most dance teacher positions require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Take Dance Classes. Taking formal dance classes is required to become a dance teacher. Dance classes may be available at local community centers, colleges, or universities.
Pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Dance. A bachelor's degree in dance is required for many teaching positions. This can include a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, or a Bachelor of Arts in Dance with an emphasis on teaching or choreography.
Participate in Internships. Internships are a great way to gain experience in the field of dance teaching. Contact a local studio or university to inquire about any available internships.
Obtain Certification. Many dance studios and organizations require that their instructors are certified. Several organizations, such as the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO), offer certification programs for dance teachers.
Get Hired. Once you have the necessary credentials and experience, you can begin applying for dance teaching positions at local studios and organizations.

Dance is a great way to stay active and have fun. However, it is important to ensure that you have a reliable and capable teacher. A good dance teacher will provide structure and guidance, and help you learn the correct techniques.

They will also motivate you to push yourself and develop your skills. In return, this will lead to improved coordination, flexibility, and balance, as well as increased confidence. With the right teacher, you can reach your full potential as a dancer and have an enjoyable learning experience.

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Job Description

Develop and teach dance curricula for students of all ages and skill levels.
Create choreography for competitive, recreational and/or performance-based dance teams.
Supervise rehearsals and provide feedback to dancers on technique and performance.
Schedule and organize regular classes, rehearsals and competitions.
Serve as a mentor and role model to students, ensuring a safe and positive learning environment.
Evaluate student progress and provide guidance to help them reach their goals.
Monitor student attendance and maintain accurate records of student progress.
Collaborate with parents and other professionals to support students development.
Create and maintain budgets for dance departments and programs.
Promote dance programs through public relations activities and marketing initiatives.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of various dance genres and styles, such as hip-hop, contemporary, breakdancing, ballet, jazz, tap
Demonstrated ability to teach dance techniques and moves
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Knowledge of music theory and composition
Ability to choreograph dances for performances
Understanding of anatomy and body mechanics
Ability to motivate and inspire students
Familiarity with safety protocols and injury prevention
Working knowledge of dance equipment and accessories
Creativity and problem solving skills

Having the right skills as a dance teacher is essential to providing quality instruction and inspiring students to reach their potential. Creativity, imagination, and knowledge of different dance styles are all important traits that help teachers create lesson plans that are engaging and challenging. strong communication and organizational skills help teachers create an environment where students can thrive.

A dance teacher must also be patient and understanding, as well as empathetic towards their students. By helping students develop a foundation in technique, body awareness, and musicality, the teacher is able to create a safe space for students to explore and discover the joy of movement. With the right skills, dance teachers can successfully engage their students, foster a sense of community, and help them reach their goals.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in dance teaching?
What challenges have you faced as a dance teacher?
How do you keep your students motivated and engaged in their dance education?
Describe a lesson plan you have created and implemented.
What methods do you use to evaluate your students progress?
How do you integrate new technology into your teaching style?
How do you foster a positive learning environment in the classroom?
What strategies do you use to promote physical safety and prevent injuries in the dance classroom?
What advice would you give to a student interested in pursuing a career as a dance teacher?
How do you stay up to date with the latest trends in dance instruction?

Common Tools in Industry

Music Software. Music software helps to create, edit, and produce music. (eg: Logic Pro, Ableton Live)
Choreography Software. Choreography software helps to create, edit, and organize dance moves. (eg: Dance Forms, Kinetix)
Video Capture Software. Video capture software records video or audio while teaching or rehearsing. (eg: OBS Studio, Camtasia)
Online Classroom Platforms. Online classroom platforms allow teachers to host virtual classes and lessons. (eg: Zoom, Google Meet)
Exercise Videos. Exercise videos provide students with demonstrations and practice routines. (eg: Ballet Body Sculpting, Jazzercise)
Dance Notation Software. Dance notation software helps teachers to record and share specific dance movements. (eg: LabanWriter, DanceForms)
Music Streaming Services. Music streaming services provide access to a variety of music for classes or performances. (eg: Spotify, Apple Music)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Dance Education Organization (NDEO)
Dance/USA
Dance/NYC
Society of Dance History Scholars (SDHS)
World Dance Alliance (WDA)
National Association for Dance in Education (NADE)
International Association for Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS)
National Dance Teachers Association (NDTA)
Dancers Alliance Coalition (DAC)
Dance Teacher Magazine

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Common Important Terms

Dance Technique. The physical and technical aspects of dancing, including the movements, steps, and postures.
Choreography. The planned sequences of steps and movements that make up a dance routine.
Improvisation. Spontaneous, unplanned movements and sequences that are often used to create a dance.
Performance. The presentation of a dance routine to an audience.
Anatomy. The study of the structure and function of the body, particularly as it relates to dance.
Kinesiology. The study of how the body moves and how dance can affect it.
Music. The selection and use of music for accompaniment to a dance routine.
Costume Design. The selection and design of costumes for a dance performance.
Rehearsal. The practice and repetition of dance steps and movements in preparation for a performance.
Pedagogy. The teaching of dance, including teaching methods and strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What qualifications do I need to become a dance teacher? A1: To become a dance teacher, you must typically have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a formal dance training program in the style of dance you wish to teach. Additionally, you may need to have certification in CPR and First Aid, as well as being licensed or registered with the state. Q2: What qualities make a great dance teacher? A2: Great dance teachers have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, patience, knowledge and experience, creativity and enthusiasm, and the ability to motivate and engage students. Q3: How much does a dance teacher typically earn? A3: The salary for a dance teacher depends on the type of institution they are employed at and the amount of experience they have in the field. Generally, dance teachers at private studios earn between $25-$50 per hour, while those employed by universities or colleges may earn an annual salary of $40,000-$100,000. Q4: What is a typical day like for a dance teacher? A4: A typical day for a dance teacher may include teaching classes of various levels in different styles of dance, conducting rehearsals for student performances or competitions, and providing individual instruction to students. Additionally, they may be responsible for planning curriculums and choreographing routines. Q5: What other opportunities are available for dance teachers? A5: Dance teachers can also find work in performing arts schools, cruise ships, online teaching, and theatre companies. Additionally, they may be able to find work in television and film production, corporate events and fitness centers.