WHY THE SDS

Comments on the Spanish Dance Society by Irena Campbell

(Irina Monter, former soloist with the great Antonio,

studied the SDS syllabus and became the first USA Examiner).

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When I first learned about the Spanish Dance Society and its very valuable teaching syllabus and graded examinations to measure a student's progress and accomplishments, I was very impressed with the value of this teaching method.

I felt very lucky that Dame Marina Grut had moved to Washington DC, and was established on the teaching faculty of the George Washington University Dance Department.

The scope of the syllabus, with the many flamenco, bolero and regional dances taught, the graded exercises for castanet playing, the knowledge imparted on the theory, Spanish terms for the names of the steps, and choreographic construction of the dances, are all extremely valuable.

The meticulous recorded music for each of the exercises and dances to be taught is also an extremely valuable contribution. The music is available on CD's, both with piano music and excellent guitar and sung renditions, which is extremely helpful both for teacher and student.

Also the possibility of having "visiting examiners" to evaluate the students’ progress, provide examinations with Certificates awarded for each level from beginning through advanced technique and dances, is a wonderful opportunity for both students and teachers to receive advanced Spanish dance education.

I have found that the syllabus and examinations are a wonderful tool for advancing the understanding and performance of all types of Spanish dance, through the written feedback for candidates and teachers to study the progress made by the candidate.