Frequently Asked Questions

How do you pronounce "divertirsi?"

"Divertirsi" is pronounced as "dee-ver-TEER-see" in Italian, with the emphasis on the "TEER" syllable; essentially sounding like "dee-ver-teer-see" when spoken naturally. 

How did you come up with your name?

"Divertirsi" means "have fun" in Italian. Since we would like to help make ballroom dancing fun for you, this word seemed perfect to include in our name.

How do I remember your website name?

"www." - "dance" - "divert - "irs" - "i" - ".com"

How do I find you on social media?

At this time, we are not actively on any of the social media platforms. A Dance Divertirsi Facebook page was created, but is not able to be maintained. Thus, communication about classes and lessons will be through this website and any one reaching out to you through social media claiming to be from Dance Divertirsi is fradulant.

Are you available for competitions?

Not at this time. I will refer you to a couple of other instructors in the area if you would like to compete.

What are the benefits of learning ballroom dancing?

Similar to the benefits of learning anything new, it helps expand our mind. Also, dancing keeps our body moving, which helps maintain our health. 

Why do my friends start the same move differently than I was taught?

Different dance school franchises exist, and each franchise has copyrighted their training methods over the decades. Plus, dance is about moving and people can make up moves.

Are we required to trade partners during class?

Trading partners during class is not required though it is encouraged because working with different skill levels helps strengthen our lead and follow skills. 

What kind of shoes should I wear?

Dancing may be done in street shoes, though dance shoes with suede soles are recommended for those who plan to continue to dance as they allow more movement. Dance sneakers with a hard plastic sole may also be used, and tend to work better than suede dance shoes on commercial carpet floors. Some of the spaces we rent have special floors and they ask us to remove our street shoes to minimize scratches.

Are group classes for children too, or just adults?

Children may attend a group class if accompanied by his/her parent attending the class and if the child(ren) are serious about taking the class. (see Disruptive Behavior policy) 

Once I attend the beginner class for each dance, do I need to keep attending?

Attending multiple sessions at the same skill level of each dance helps strengthen one's understanding of the dance. The first exposure is usually insufficient without practice outside of class, and returning to class after practicing helps establish the skill. As one becomes experienced, we encourage attending higher skill classes even if lower skills have not been completely mastered because learning more complex moves helps establish the easier moves.

If my partner cannot attend one of our lessons, do we have to cancel the lesson? - or - I normally take lessons as an individual. Does that mean I cannot bring a partner to some lessons?

Lessons can also be completed as an individual or as a couple and the instructor can either lead or follow depending on the needs of the student(s). The cost of the lesson will also be adjusted accordingly based on who attends. Please let the instructor know if someone new will be attending as they will need to complete the New Client Information and Release of Liability forms.

Is the leader and follower role specific to a certain gender?

Anyone can learn both the leader and follower role, and learning both roles helps one become a better dancer.

Are you willing to teach a private lesson out of someone's home?

No, unless one's home includes a ballroom. Typically there is inadequate space for a dance lesson.