Tips for Teaching a Successful Master Class

Summer is coming, and for dance teachers, that means that our schedule changes quite a bit. We may be teaching in our own studios summer camps and intensives, and we also may be looking to teach guest/master classes at other studios. 

A master class is a great opportunity for dancers to learn from teachers and choreographers that they do not normally have the chance to work with. It's also a great way for us teachers to continue our experience, network, and make some extra money!

Below are 6 Tips for preparing for and teaching a successful Master Class!

1) Know Your Audience

Find out WHO you'll be teaching. What is the age range of the students? How often do they dance? What is their previous training and current level? What are their goals? 

Getting answers to these questions will help guide your approach and preparation. A good master class is about the dancers, not us. 

2) Be Flexible

Despite our best efforts in asking questions and planning ahead, you won't really know what the dancers are like until they're in front of you. Be prepared to either simplify your material, or make it more difficult as needed. Finding a balance of meeting students where they're at while giving them a reasonable amount of challenge is ideal. 

3) Put Out Good Vibes

It's normal for students who have never met a teacher to feel nervous and tense. When entering a space of young dancers we don't know, it's important to provide upbeat, positive energy from the start. Personally introduce yourself with a smile to each student as they walk in. Before beginning class, give your group a summary of what they'll be doing with you. Throw in some humor from time to time-- this will help everyone relax, feel more comfortable, and overall remember a fun experience with you!

4) Know Your Material and Set Goals

Consider the amount of time you'll have for your class and plan out every minute! That includes being clear on your counts and/or musical cues.

My formula for master classes includes a brief introduction (a few sentences about who I am and what we'll be doing in class today), a warm up, across the floor, quick bathroom/water break, and then teaching an excerpt of my choreography. I typically allocate more time teaching my choreography in master classes vs. my regular classes-- I want the students to have enough time to really learn, repeat, and absorb so that they can dance with confidence. Make sure you introduce the music for your combo early in the process!

Thinking about particular goals for the class and what you want to leave the dancers with will help you create your material and structure. 

5) Organize the Room

Master classes often have more dancers in the room. Make sure you switch lines regularly and give students who gravitate toward the back a chance to be in front when you're teaching your choreography. Know exactly how you're going to arrange the students when traveling across the floor and how you'll break them up into groups during the last part of class. 

6) Be Mindful and Professional

Making a good impression on the people who hired you to be a guest in their studio is imperative. The dance world is small and we want to leave people feeling good about their experience with us! 

Show up to class early to get acclimated. Time in master classes is precious, so know what you'll be doing inside and out. Thank the students for dancing with you. Thank the owner/director for inviting you. 

In conclusion...

Teaching a good master class is an incredibly helpful skill for dance teachers. It allows us to continue our professional development, expand our network, sustain ourselves financially, and of course, reach and inspire more young dancers!