28 Dec
2011
28 Dec
'11
3:49 p.m.
Richard Hart wrote:
These guidelines for dance teachers include dozens of
nuggets for any dance
caller. I wish I'd seen it when I stared calling, and it's stilt a good
reminder of things for me to remember to do.
http://socialdance.stanford.edu/syllabi/teaching_tips.htm
Thank you for posting this link. There are some really good tips for
teaching. As a contra dance caller I try to limit teaching from the mike.
But some of these tips are great for any caller.
I really liked the tip: "Take charge immediately in a direct, friendly,
assertive way. Don't pussyfoot." I urge callers to take charge of the
room immediately and professionally. In particular it is important for the
contra dance caller to take charge of set management at the initial
line-up. This requires an on-time start--before lines start being formed
by the dancers.
The first 10-15 seconds on the mike will set a tone for the evening and
establish your professionalism. A strong, on-time opening can change the
outcome of the evening.
Just at thought,
- Greg McKenzie