Answer: The Arthur Murray Practice Party is where dance students, new and experienced, put their instruction into practical use. These sessions are designed to emulate a night out dancing at a nightclub, a wedding reception, or an office party. What sets the Practice Party apart is that there are Arthur Murray instructors present, to help answer questions, or offer suggestions, which makes it a supported, but fun, learning environment.
A laboratory session as part of a science class where students can see the results of what they are learning in real time.
A beta test, or focus group, that helps to work out the bugs in a new product or software before it is released to the masses.
A jam session for musicians. This is where they can test what they are learning, and safely experiment with improvisation, without the pressure of a performance.
Behind the wheel training is the practical application of a classroom based Driver's Education class. While dancing doesn't require a license, driver's education students must log a certain number of minutes of supervised driving on real city streets before they can qualify for their driver's license.
You've seen it on the schedule, your teacher has invited you to go, and it have seemed like something embarrassing, or something you're unequipped for. So instead of a party, think of it as a lab, a beta test, or behind the wheel dance training. You are, after all, going to a rather prestigious ballroom dance school, and there's a reason why it is a part of the Arthur Murray curriculum.
Practice Parties are a regular part of the Arthur Murray Calendar. They occur 1-3 times a week, depending on location. The lights are dimmed, and the teachers play music, and announce each dance, so that way students can begin to associate the music with the corresponding dances.
Practice parties are included in any dance program at Arthur Murray. It is the third activity in, what is known as, the Arthur Murray Unit (Private Lessons, Group Lessons, and Party)
The following articles will add more context, tips, and suggestions for your next practice party.
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