She Wants A Solo, But Is She Ready?
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Dance Question:
For auditions at our studio, dancers may mark on the form if they would like to be considered for a solo. My dancer would like to do a solo, but I’m just not sure she is ready. As a parent, how do you know when you should encourage a solo? She is ten years old.
Sherise:
Everyone and every studio has different opinions on this topic. There are many things to consider. Are they committed to dance or are they involved in other activities: sports, gymnastics, theater, etc.? They need to be able to have the time to invest in a solo. Also, are they technically ready? Have they taken ballet and tech classes? Are they emotionally ready? For example when in a class a teacher or judge will give vague comments/corrections to the class as a whole while in your solo they will be directed to you. Some kids are fine with that, but others are not and that is OK. Another suggestion is that if possible maybe you could ask her dance teacher if she feels she is ready. So many solos are being done nowadays; remind your daughter to do what’s best for her not what others are doing. When she does a solo, you want it to be a good experience for her so it doesn’t interfere with her love of dance!
Temperance:
Solos are a huge commitment and they take a lot of confidence and enthusiasm to really do well and help the dancer grow! If your dancer feels she is ready for this, then it probably means she is confident enough to handle it. I have a 10 year old student this year who has a solo and it has helped her TREMENDOUSLY with stage presence. In my opinion too, it is never too early to begin solos. I think the more one-on-one time you can get for your dancer with her teacher (as long as the teacher truly cares about the growth of the student) is beneficial in so many ways. Not only in improving their technique and dancing, but in building a good relationship with the teacher. I think if your daughter truly loves dance, wants to get better, and you see potential in her, definitely encourage the solo! Also keep in mind the extra expense of choreography fees, private lessons, extra costume, and extra competition fees. Comp fees for solos these days are a bit ridiculous at 100-110 dollars. So that is just something I would budget out before you go ahead with it! 🙂
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My daughter is 9 and has been begging to try for a solo for next year. It makes me nervous. After reading this though, I don’t know how I can say “No”!
Our studio does duo/trios until they are on the teen/senior team. I know my daughter would love a solo, but she gets many of the same advantages with a duet. They get the semi-private rehearsals and the judges are critiquing them individually too. She has also built a great friendship with her duet. And everything cost 1/2 the amount. 🙂 Our studio allows parent/dancer input on the music, costume and hair choices for the duet so that is fun also!
I have had a solo every year since I was seven years old. I can tell you that as a growing dancer it has been incredible to see myself grow each year. I will admit at the beginning it was hard because I just wanted to get out there and win but it has instilled a greater sense of work ethic in me. Also it can be very rewarding for young dancers to see what they are able to achieve independently, without the help of their team or group.
I feel like solos do allow dancers to grow. But many dance teachers give solos to dancers they expect to win. And won’t put the effort to allow every dancer who is passionate the opportunity to develop and see what they are capable of. It’s hard to grow as a dancer when you aren’t allowed to beyond what you are given.