Assessing one's level of rhythmic development is an important part of learning to dance. This is determined by your background and rhythmic experiences. If social dance or moving to any kind of music is a brand new experience, a few will find themselves at Level I. The majority begin at Level II where they can get by socially, but should practice to move to Level III in order to enjoy all dances. A few beginning dancers start at Level III, having had previous dance, marching band, or other rhythmic experiences. The dancer who demonstrates complete proficiency in rhythm, fluid movement, musical timing, control and variety has attained Level IV. To be a good dancer, each Level must be mastered chronologically.
LEVEL I - Beat Confidence
Can hear, establish, and walk to the underlying beat throughout a song by SELF
Can distinguish between 4/4 beats (4 beats per measure) and 3/4 (3 beats per measure).
LEVEL II - Rhythmic Confidence
Can do Level I skills correctly with a PARTNER
Can repetitively execute the basic rhythmic pattern of each dance (e.g., SSQQ)
LEVEL III - Movement confidence
Can do Level II skills correctly in all directions: forward, backward, sideward, turning
Can concentrate on other elements (frame and fluid movement), not just the rhythm
Capable of assuming and maintaining a correct frame
Leading: able to lead partner confidently, accurately, and subtly
Following: able to read subtle cues from partner / Can adjust to each partner
Can carry on a conversation and dance simultaneously
LEVEL IV - Proficiency
Rhythm feels very natural, don't have to count
Able to identify and move to all dance rhythms smoothly
Can move with a partner as a unit
Can execute (lead/follow) intricate patterns smoothly
Movement flows, transitions are fluid; are DANCING, not just walking in front of partner