The Benefits Of Good Dance Technique

Television and film producers have capitalized on the dance fever that has struck the nation. From shows like Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance to movies like Step Up and How She Move, audiences everywhere are being swept up in the latest dance craze. Many of these shows and films are also encouraging more and more people to pursue dance as a career.

If you’ve watched any of the televised dance shows, then you know that training doesn’t automatically determine talent. Experienced dancers who’ve been training for more than a dozen years often share the stage with novice dancers who’ve learned their moves from watching music videos, or dancing in nightclubs. And sometimes when it’s time to make a decision, it’s the untrained dancer that moves on to the next round. Having passion, dedication and style can sometimes impress a judge even more than 12 years of advanced classes.

While the media is proving that lack of training doesn’t have to hold aspiring dancers back from pursuing their dreams, it is still important that all dancers begin taking classes. While proper technique isn’t a requirement for winning over judges, it is a requirement if you want to ward off injury.

Dance auditions require dancers to pick up choreography - which can sometimes be very complex - very quickly. If dancers haven’t grasped proper technique, strenuous auditions – and performances – can easily lead to injury. Choreography that may require jump landings or deep squats can lead to tendonitis and knee injuries. An improper turnout can lead to wear and tear on the hips. Poor posture can lead to successive back problems.

If you have a natural talent and you’ve decided to pursue dance as a career, begin taking classes as soon as possible. This is an exciting time for you and you don’t want to miss your big break due to an injury that could have been prevented by refining your technique.

For a list of dance studios in your area, visit http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com and visit our 'Entertainment Resources' section.

How To Pick A Vocal Coach

If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to become a better singer then you may be considering taking voice lessons this year. Training is a very important part of seriously pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, so when you’re searching for a teacher or coach, you want to make sure that you are working with a top notch professional that will really help you take your talent to the next level.

Finding a teacher or a coach is no different than purchasing a car, or making a huge financial decision. You want to be sure that you do your homework, as well as ask lots of questions to be sure you’ll be happy with your choice.

If you’re looking for a vocal coach or singing teacher, here are a few questions you may want to ask:

• What formal education and/or training do you have?
• How long have you been singing? How long have you been teaching?
• What’s your vocal range?
• What styles are you most familiar with? (Ex. musical theater, jazz, pop, opera…)
• Have you received any awards or commendations?
• What’s the age range of your students?
• Are you a member of any professional organizations such as the National Association of Teachers of Singing or the Voice and Speech Trainers Association?
• What are your primary areas of instruction? (Ex. singing technique, performance coaching…)
• Where are your lessons held? (Ex. in a studio, in the home…)
• What’s the cost of each session?
• Do you have a list of references?

You should also meet with the prospective teacher to be sure that you would be comfortable with him or her. Additionally, you should ask them to sing for you, which will also aid you in your decision.

Another great way to find a teacher is by asking friends and trusted sources for references. Visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and check out some of the vocal coaches we have listed on our site. You can also post a request for references in our community forum. Happy hunting!