The Latin Ballroom - Dance Medal Programs

About the Medal System

Many dancers start classes, to use their own words, "just to learn enough to get around the room and have some fun".

And really, isn't that what social dancing is all about?

However we've all seen those couples who seem able to "just do it!" with flair and grace - and we've all probably danced with that experienced dancer who just made it SO much easier to get around the floor.

Where (how!) did they learn to be so smooth and confident?

The Dance world recognises those dancers who have gone further than normal social dancing with the Medal System - Bronze, Silver and Gold.

As you might guess, each Medal requires an increase in the number of specified figures danced, as well as increasing levels of technique.

The Dance Industry Association of Australia has set out a very realistic Medal system which provides ample opportunity for successfull completion of the Program.

Medal Requirements

At each level (Bronze, Silver and Gold) three versions of each Medal is available.

Latin

Dances selected MUST be from:

Cha Cha;
Jive;
Rumba;
Samba; &
Paso Doble.

Standard

Dances selected MUST be from:

Waltz;
Quick Step;
International Style Tango;
Foxtrot; &
Vienesse Waltz.

Open

Dances can include any combnation of Latin or Standard dance styles, or include(#):

Salsa;
Argentine Tango; &
New Vogue*

(#) New Styles being added as approved by the Dance Industry Association of Australia.
(*) Due to technical considerations, two (2) New Vogue dances (in different music genres) are required.

For each level:

Bronze Medal - Four (4) Dance Styles including all Figures and Technique specified for Bronze Level.
Silver Medal - Five (5) Dance Styles including all Figures and Technique specified for Silver Level.
Gold Medal - Five (5) Dance Styles including all Figures and Technique specified for Gold Level.

Details of all Figures and Routines is available at the Dance Industry Association of Australia website (click here).

After suitable preparation, the dancer is "examined" to confirm their dancing is of sufficient quality.

The Medal Program at the Latin Ballroom Studios

Attempting four or five different dance styles in one go can be very daunting, not to mention a huge burden on your time and energy.

At the Latin Ballroom we have divided into specific dance styles - you only participate in the ones that YOU want to! Each Dance stle is offered as a combination of Group Lesson and Private Lessons. Learn the steps, figures and Routine in the Group class, then refine and add technique and style in the Private Lesson(s).

Over a period of NOT MORE THAN 2 years, attend your selected Medal classes and get examined as you go.

As you achieve recognition in each dance style you receive a Certificate Award from the DIAA - when you have completed all the requiements in your selected styles, you will formally be awarded a Bronze, Silver or Gold Medal!

Some Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a partner?

No, not for the Medal Program itself, but you will need to find a practice buddy of sufficient experience. In an ideal situation joining the Medal Program as a couple (whether a "couple" couple or just as "dance buddies") is VERY helpful.

What if I fail?

All the way through the Medal Program you'll receive advice as to how you are going. If your Teacher thinks that you need more time the will let you know.

If you are advised to attend an examination and you are unsuccessful, you are able to participate in another Medal Program of the same dance style for NO charge.

Do I have to be examined?

Absolutely not! Many dancers use the Medal Program as a way to improve their dancing, just for dancing's sake.

In fact, when you start the Medal Program, you don't even have to commit to an examination - you can decide on that later.

Overview of the Program

Generally, there are four (4) Group Lessons and two (2) Private Lessons. The Group Lesson dates are listed on the Calendar page (HERE). The Private Lessons are by negotiation, when you feel you'll get the most out of them.

If you join the Medal Program as a couple (or form a dance couple), how you use your Private Lessons will be up to you. For example a couple may decide to have their Private Lessons solo - that is 2 each, or have FOUR as a couple. The choice is your.

The examination date is on a regular 3 monthly cycle. If you don't feel ready for this one, just keep practicing till the next!

Also included in the Medal Program is a printed Dance Guide describing all steps, figures and routines.

To further assist, FREE USE OF THE STUDIO is included for practice of all Medal Program routines.*

What are the Dates and Times?

Check the Course Calendar page >>>> HERE <<<<

Who Can Do the Medal Programs?

The Medal Program is open to all, but generally you need to have completed (at least) one Level (2) program in that dance style. Basics are NOT taught.

If you're unsure just give us a call on the Dance Hotline - 1300 780 759.

Cost

Please refer to the Course Calendar page for all prices >>>> HERE <<<<

(* The free practice time:

is subject to availability;

none exclusive;

is limited to 6 weeks after conclusion of Group lessons.)

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