Arthur Murray Syllabus -Levels of Dance from Beginner to Gold
The step patterns and techniques taught at the Arthur Murray Dance Studios are organized according to level from Beginner/Pre-Bronze to Gold. The Arthur Murray Syllabus is a system of organizing the patterns and skills that is called the Medalist System and is used worldwide.
We can teach any student at the appropriate level whatever their previous experience has been – from absolute beginner to professional.
Introductory Package
an introduction to Arthur Murray’s
Our small Starter Package is designed as a introduction to learning at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio. All students new to us start with this package and it will offer a taste of what learning in the Arthur Murray studio is like whatever your dance level. It’s designed to fulfill your immediate dance needs while allowing your instructor an opportunity to evaluate your dancing for the purpose of planning your future learning. We can design a program for you based on the level that is appropriate for you.
Arthur Murray Dance Levels:
Beginner/Pre-Bronze Level
the basic skills for dancing with a partner for social dance or performance
Sometimes called a General Variety or Social Ease Program, the Pre-Bronze program develops the most important dances you plan to use immediately at a basic level. Emphasis is placed on three important elements of dancing:
(1) foot position
(2) rhythm and timing
(3) leading or following
In addition you will acquire enough variety of material to keep your learning experience interesting. Toward the end of this level you should start to develop reflex memory for the basic patterns and rhythms for the dances you have been learning and begin to recognize music styles for some of the dances.
Associate Bronze Level (Bronze 1 and Bronze 2)
more variety, stronger partnering skills and character of dance
The Associate Bronze Level will develop freer movement around the dance floor while expanding your variety. Smoother movements and rotation provide a more advanced look and feel. Styling and character of dance are introduced with attention to technique and footwork for more enhanced lead and follow. Associate Bronze dancers also develop reflex memory for more elaborate patterning and a more keen sense of music recognition for which dance will fit with music being played.
Full Bronze Level (Bronze 3 and Bronze 4)
added variety, character of dance with advanced styling
Full Bronze is the complete social dance program taught by the Arthur Murray Dance Studios. It’s designed to develop timing and techniques in all the dances selected by the student. Smooth movements, seamless blending of patterns and ability to demonstrate character of dance results in a truly enhanced dance experience both for you and your partner.
The styling will make you look and feel comfortable on the dance floor and strengthen your lead and following regardless of your partner, the music being played or the type of dance floor. Full Bronze dancers have all the confidence anyone would need on the floor because they have reached the “fun point” in dancing. New dances are so easy to learn now, as they are just and extension of the skill set you have already developed.
Silver Level (Silver 1 – 4)
dancing that truly stands out, added styling with timing changes, intricate movements and the added layers of techniques for movement with a truly advanced look and feel
Silver is the dance standard with a high degree of styling. More elaborate movements ensure the Silver dancer will stand out on any dance floor. Continuity of movements makes a couple glide across the dance floor with many natural directional changes. Styling, technique, balance and control take on an entirely new meaning. This is the beginning of the more professional standard used mainly on the ballroom floor.
Gold Level (Gold 1 – 4)
very advanced styling building on the timing additions and intricacy of the previous levels, professional look and partnering skill with emphasis on technique and high level patterning
Our Gold standard is strictly for the hobby dancer interested in performances, exhibitions or competitions. Its intricate patterns are only to be used when both partners are proficient. Choreography, styling, technique and showmanship are necessities in this standard. This material is generally not used on a crowded floor. There is a lot of work involved in this program, but you will truly be regarded as an outstanding dancer, able to excel in any dance.
Dance programs are designed for people desiring instruction in either Social or Competition dancing styles. Additionally, we utilize an inter-related style of teaching called the Arthur Murray Method, which enables students to learn the skills needed for dancing (not just steps) in the most efficient way possible. Our goal is to help you get out on the floor dancing as soon as possible.