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“I take lessons with Myles and Tessa, but those hours in the studio with them is a drop in the bucket compared to what they have taught me.

They have encouraged and taught me to be a community leader, roll model, and all around better person. I have been honoured with their full-service mentorship. A few months ago they answered a video call at 2am to walk Alpha and me through a technical skill we were planning to teach in a workshop the next day: they were in bed, in their pyjamas, at a WCS event on the other side of the continent. Epic. While I would like to think I’m special…. I see them do this with many others, in many cities.

When they find someone who is driven, their teaching does not end on the 1-hour mark. They buy-in completely. I can’t imagine this level of dedication and generosity is common.”

“I’m grateful to have had Myles and Tessa as teachers. Their ability to identify crucial moments in dance, then explain them in a clear concise manner makes every minute of their private lessons indispensable. I admire the way they target their teaching to give me exactly what I need to grow as a dancer without overwhelming me.”

“I am so grateful for the privates and workshops that have accelerated my dance progress. Myles & Tessa’s ability to interpret my learning style and body mechanics, imparted foundations and skills that allow me to feel I can understand what can improve many situations even on-the-fly while dancing. A work in progress, but I’m now more aware when I can improve a move, figure out what is missing, and how to adjust. The bonus is that I can also better follow other instructors in workshops and fill in the blanks if necessary. Looking forward to continued development and enjoyment of musicality, partner communication, boing, and kissing, that turn a good dance into a great experience.”

“I just wanted to say a big thank you again! I received so many compliments on my connection after my private and especially after the mini intensive. Myles, thank you for the feedback on finals, and for all the fabulous dances throughout the weekend! Tessa was able to analyze what was causing me long term pain during my anchor, and after making a simple adjustment, I haven’t had an issue with it since!”

“On a personal level, Tessa and Myles have both personally helped me move beyond my limits.  They are encouraging as teachers, their collective knowledge of movement and dance, and sheer experience shines through in their interaction.  Their private lessons are effective, but be prepared to work: their analysis and attention to details leave no stone unturned.  They move beyond the monkey-see-monkey-do by presenting the concepts behind the ideas, reinforcing the foundations beneath the help you want.  Be prepared to walk away from these guys a better dancer!”

What’s your favourite event?

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This is a question we get asked frequently. People are often curious to know which events we recommend, in order to create their own event bucket list. The underlying message is, “Which ones should I go to?” While we don’t mind being asked, and we are happy to talk about the merits of specific events […]

How I handled a student’s toxic behaviour

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Teaching Snack #8Your struggleSometimes students resist when you try to introduce them to a method, process, or technique that they are not used to. Sometimes this resistance is disrespectful. It can be hard to stand up for yourself under pressure and take charge of your business, your method, and your reputation. An interesting thing happened at […]

Considering Choreography?

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The West Coast Swing world is a strong supporter of social dancing: the improvisation side of the dance. The idea of speaking a language in order to carry on a conversation with anyone in the world without planning, is of the highest value. However, almost all dance forms have a facet to them that involves […]

Private Lesson Pains

Are you sabotaging your own dance progress? Be a better student and get more out of your investment! #teacherpeeves #becoachable #wcscoachscorner

No matter your level, when it comes to dance instruction, nothing gives you more bang-for-your-buck than private lessons. Private lessons are a part of a balanced dance diet. The one-on-one feedback fills your bucket with encouragement and homework to last you a few weeks to a few months of social dance practice. BUT, there are […]

Evolving Event Standards & Trends

I've been cooking something special just for Event Directors... #wcscoachscorner #evolveordie #worksmarternotharder

As WCS spreads and grows exponentially worldwide and the dance evolves, the landscape of dance events is changing too. There are more dance activities available on the market now, so in an effort to compete for attention and attendees, events have to be innovative and offer more value. The tried and true formula is still […]