How to Set up a Jazz Dance Group

If you're a jazz dancer with nowhere to practice and no one to practice with, consider starting your own group. It will be hard work but that will pay off in at least two ways: you'll get to teach jazz dance to others while getting a chance to dance yourself.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Jazz dance knowledge
• Place to meet
• CDs
• Stereo

1. Know your jazz dance and know it well. You'll have to show others how to do these moves so know exactly what you're doing. Take a refresher course if you have to—it's important that you know the steps and are able to teach them.
2. Find a place to meet. Talk to churches, schools, stores or even dance studios. All you need is a flat surface big enough to accommodate the number of people attending your jazz dance group.
3. Purchase CDs and secure a way to play them. You may find a locale with a sound system that's spectacular but starting out you probably won't. Get an inexpensive, portable stereo that sounds good. If you're meeting outside don't forget batteries.
4. Decide on what fee you will charge. Since you'll be paying for a space to host your group, CDs and a sound system, don't feel bad about charging a membership fee. Just keep it low and use the money to make your jazz dance group better.
5. Consider the skill level of the people you recruit. If you're an advanced dancer and don't want to do much teaching, close the group to beginners. But remember that more people will attend your jazz dance group if it's appropriate for beginners.

Tips & Warnings

• When you find a place to host your jazz dance group ask about a fee. You'll likely be charged something but don't pay anything too outlandish. Save those expenses for when your dance group is extremely popular and you can afford the best accommodations.