We have been tracking COVID-19 and what this means for our dance school. Our first priority is the health of our dancers, their families, and our community. Our second priority is to keep our dancers physically active and engaged. Given this, we’ve decided to host interactive, remote classes via Zoom and instructional videos via YouTube.
This is new territory for all of us, but we’re excited that technology allows us to stay connected -- fortunately, all we need is a small floor space, and a device with a camera and microphone!
How will classes work?
Dancers will find a space in their home to dance in front of an electronic device with a camera and microphone. To start class, dancers will join a Zoom URL (see links below) to join a virtual conference with Jennifer and their fellow dancers.
The class structure will be similar to in-person.
Jennifer will play the music on her end and dancers will hear it through their speaker.
What is Zoom? Do I need to download something before class?
Zoom is a video conference software that will allow us to see and hear each other from the safety of our own homes.
While you can use Zoom in a web browser, the bandwidth isn’t as strong. You will be prompted to download the Zoom software (on desktop) or app (on mobile) after you click on your class link. I suggest you click on your URL (see below) on the device you plan to use for class and follow the instructions to download Zoom and create a free account before your first class.
Check out this video on how to adjust your camera, microphone, and speaker settings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-s76QHshQnY
Please see the Zoom technical support here: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/categories/200101697
Will Dancers be able to interact with Jennifer and each other via Zoom during the class?
For the majority of class, all dancers will be on mute (this limits everyone hearing each other’s background noise). You will be able to see and hear Jennifer, and see (but not hear) your friends.
If you have a question, wave your hand/arm and Jennifer will un-mute you.
At some points during the class, we may unmute all dancers, so they’re able to interact and chat.
will class times change?
For the first few weeks, we will keep class times the same as they have been up until now. As this evolves, we may explore daytime classes or adjustments to different class structures.
Where should my dancer practice at home? What Does my dancer need for class?
Space: Before class, please experiment with different areas and surfaces in your home. As a test, the dancer should have enough space to high-cut and leap comfortably and dance the first step of the Seann Truibhas.
Equipment. Dancers will need:
A laptop (preferred due to larger screen and better camera), tablet, or smartphone. Any device with a camera, a microphone, a speaker, and an internet connection will do! The better the camera and internet connection, the more clear the picture will be for Jennifer.
Regular dance clothes, dance shoes (depending on surface, you could try bare feet), water bottle.
Tape, rope, or sticks to be used as mock practice swords. Ideal length: 38”.
What is my dancer’s Zoom link?
Please see the email from Jennifer with the Subject: “Update on COVID-19 and Celtica” sent on March 23.