This is specifically about my experience with the Ann Arbor branch of Arthur Murray:
There’s so much I could say about the technical skill of Greta and her staff at Ann Arbor.
But that’s not why you’re reading this. You already want to go. You are just looking for permission. For encouragement.
Well, let me tell you that if you have any of those movie stereotypes of the critical dance instructor, clear those thoughts- Arthur Murray Dance Studio Arbor has a wide range of very personable and caring teachers, and the are quite adept at matching you with the teacher you need to become a better dancer and even help you grow into the you you should have always been allowed to be.
Betzabe (to use my teacher as an example) is living energy full of humor and reminds you that the dance floor is a place to have fun, she is fire in a bottle- at the same time, she’s able to keep things on track, and guide you with care and compassion and is very respectful of personal space while also encouraging you to come out of your shell.
On the other hand (sometimes literally), Greta (to use my teacher as an example) is much like her favorite dance, West coast swing. A combination of tenderness and firmness, she keeps you always moving and progressing, and then when everything’s set and established, out of nowhere she adds in the most beautiful and delightful moments that should feel out of place and yet she makes it all feel so natural, like they’ve always belonged.
You might be asking about the price, and let me tell you the value is there on just the personal lessons, and then when you include all the group lessons and the practice party events as part of that same fee, it’s quite a bargain!
One final note: be honest about what you want from them going into this. And as you spend time with the program, that might change, and do let your instructor know if it does; If you want to learn a specific dance, be direct about saying so. If what you want is to learn to dance-that’s a completely different route. It’s a longer course, and I would tell you that if you can commit the time to it, including practicing on your own, it’s ever...
Read moreArthur Murray Dance Studio – Ann Arbor
When I decided to take dance lessons at Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Ann Arbor over six years ago, I expected straight forward instructions in my various chosen dances—which I have received. What has surprised me is how much this new activity has enhanced other areas of my life: it is a fun new hobby that has capped several work days a week with a fun, light cardio program that has lightened my mood and even enhanced interpersonal skills. I've met wonderful friends along the way as we practice our poise and dance patterns. I could shower Greta, Betzabe, Nali and Melsa as well as Philip and Ben, with an embarrassing number of superlatives in regards their professionalism and interest in helping me achieve my dancing goals, but I will let suffice to say they represent their studio very well.
Studio manager Greta is running a well-oiled dancing enterprise. I truly believe the financial cost of the dance instruction will pay me personal dividends for many years to come. If anyone is ‘on the fence’ about trying lessons, I recommend carefully climbing down and reaching out to this Dance Studio for a complimentary lesson; dance lessons are not likely to be something you will regret in life and you are in good hands with...
Read moreOne of the things I really enjoy about this studio is that the cost is very clear and upfront. There's no "Memberships" or uniforms or floor fees. You tell them how often you want to have a private lesson and they give you a number. Or the other way around, if that's what works for you. And really that's the core of it. They will work with you on figuring what works best.
They are also the total opposite of that stereotype instructor you might have seen in media. Everyone at Arthur Murray Dance Studio of Ann Arbor is so uplifting and positive, and in their own personal way, so you really feel it's from the heart and they are rooting for your success. (And they really are!)
And the music is so fun and casual. I can't tell you what you're going to hear during your lesson, but I can tell you it won't be dull. Betzabe, to use my instructor as an example, will often chose among a wide range of artists, such as Enigma, Shakira, Pentatonix, Christina Aguilera, Billie Eilish, Enrique Iglesias, or even mixes from the current DJ scene.
If you've gone this far reading this review, you've shown the interest and determination you'll need to be a successful student, so go ahead and sign up for a free lesson and start getting out on the dance floor like you...
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