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A FatChanceBellyDance
®
Sister Studio
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
All classes start and end on time. We recommend that you get to the studio 10-15 minutes in advance of class to ensure you’re ready to dance when
class begins. Please use that time to get dressed, clear your head, stretch, or socialize with your fellow dancers. Otherwise, please arrive on time
and ready to dance. No children are allowed in the studio without permission from the instructor. If your question is not answered in the questions
below, please email us and we’ll respond as quickly as possible! Happy dancing!
Can I do drop-ins?
YES! You can drop in to Level 1 at any time. It is recommended that you sign up at the
beginning of the course, however, to get the discounted rate. There is review built into
each week, so you'll have an idea of what was taught the weeks prior.
If you've completed a level 2 course in the past, you are welcome to join the course at any
time at the drop-in rate.
Levels 3 and 4 have specific requirements. Please contact us for details.
Can I start with private lessons?
We do offer private lessons and you may start to learn ATS with private lessons. However, for
your benefit it is recommended that you wait to book private lessons until after completing a
6-week Fundamentals Course, if possible, to allow you to see the group dynamic that is ATS.
Where do I get zils?
Finger cymbals (aka zils) can be purchased at fcbd.com or elsewhere online. If you do not
find them at fcbd.com, we recommend, Saroyan Mastercrafts, Tribe Nawaar, or Turqiouse
International. A good starter pair of cymbals will cost between $18-25.
What happens if I miss a class? Do my fees carry forward?
We recommend that you follow up with your instructor, outside of class time, if you are
absent to inquire what material was covered in class. The class format is listed below for
your convenience. Do your best to study at home with instructional DVDs. Unfortunately,
class fees paid in advance do NOT forward into the next month unless the instructor must
unexpectedly cancel classes for that day. Otherwise, class fees paid in advance are good
for the month paid only; it’s the student’s responsibility to attend classes regularly and use
all classes paid for.
How long will it take me to get to Level 4 and performing?
That’s a great question and unfortunately not one we have an exact answer to. Dancers
learn at their own individual pace. The best thing we suggest is consistent class
attendance and home practice to help you excel. Come to class ready to learn, ask
questions, and work hard. You’ll have a good understanding of the core concepts within a
couple of months of consistent classes. We also recommend repetition of the
Fundamentals whenever possible as Fundamentals is the foundation to this dance form. A
solid understanding of the Fundamentals will help set you up for success on your dance
journey!
Level 3 and level 4/performance prep is by invite only. Your instructor will invite you to
join Level 3 or Level 4 when she feels you are ready for that challenge. Moving into these
levels is a very big commitment to your dance, your dance sisters, your time, and your
finances. Once you are moved into Level 3, you are required to simultaneously repeat
Level 1 & 2 for one session. As well, entrance into Level 3 may not be permanent.
Joining Level 4 means you are also interested in pursuing this dance form on a
professional level. Once you are moved into Level 4, you are required to simultaneously
repeat Level 3 for one calendar year and/or take regularly scheduled private lessons if
you cannot attent Level 3 classes.
If you are falling behind in your attendance or having difficulties in the class room, the
teacher reserves the right to decide to move you back into Level 2 or 3 only. If you do not
want to commit to regular attendance, or more than one class per week, it is best to stay
in Level 2.