Glossary

Note: This article will be updated as necessary based upon my research and as people bring things to my attention.

With all this commentary about dancing, I feel that it is important to define some terms we may take for granted. While definitions may vary as you travel from scene to scene, the following definitions are what I have seen to be a general consensus among the professional community.

Beginning Dancer:
Learning the basic steps of the dance. Typically has less than 30 hours dance experience (i.e. dancing less than twice a week for two months).

Beginning-Intermediate Dancer:
Has grasped the basic steps of the specific dance being learned and is beginning to develop vocabulary of moves. Is beginning to grasp the fundamentals of the dance such as appearance, typical move patterns, and the connection.

Intermediate Dancer:
Has a working knowledge of the fundamentals of the dance such as appearance and typical move patterns. Is developing a grasp for the finer points of connection as well as a fluency in vocabulary of moves. Begins to seeks knowledge in associated dances and applying related principles and analogous moves. Typically has had at least 60 hours social dancing experience (Ex. dancing twice a week for 2 months.

Intermediate-Advanced Dancer:
Begins to pursue the theory behind the dance. Is familiar with connection but is limited in flexibility of use. Fluent in standard move patterns and is developing a distinct personal style consistent with and appropriate to the dance. Is developing an extensive vocabulary of moves and dances earned through many hours of practice and dancing.

Advanced Dancer:
Marked by a strong grasp of fundamentals and basics, as well as the presence of a distinct style consistent with and appropriate to the dance. Is fluent with and applies connection as an inherent part of dancing. Explores the dance and the music, calling upon the knowledge of theory behind the dance and music, rather than calling upon the moves associated with the dance.

Active Dancer:
At least two nights (at least 3 hours each) of social dancing a week.