Frequently Asked Questions
How do pronounce Scoil Rince na Connemara and what does it mean?
It is pronounced “Skull Rin-ka na Connemara” and is Gaelic for “Connemara School of Irish Dance”. We have shortened the school name now to be Connemara Irish Dancers.
How old does my child have to be to start Irish Dancing?
Younger dancers can enter the Intro to Irish Dance at age 4. Here, the focus is on having fun and learning about movement and rhythm. Students will learn the basics steps and some easy Ceili dances.
How do I know which class to enroll in?
Aside from the youngest dancers, classes are not separated by age; they are separated by ability. As the dancer learns the required movements; steps and dances, he/she will move up to the next class level (the time spent in each level will vary). The dancers are evaluated on an ongoing basis to ensure they are progressing.
What is the average class size?
For exercises/warm-ups, there may be 10-20 dancers, however, dancers work then break into small groups of 3-5 to work on technique and steps.
When are classes held and how long are the classes?
Classes are held on Sundays. Beginner classes are 30 minutes while all other classes are 1 – 2 hours in length. Additional classes may be scheduled leading up to large/important shows.
Is there a dress code?
Dancers are asked to wear comfortable clothing: shorts, skirts or tighter fitting pants and t-shirts/tank tops. The studio gets very warm in the summer months, so please dress accordingly. No jeans or baggy pants will be permitted as they restrict the dancer’s ability to move and the instructor’s ability to correct their positioning.
What do I need to buy?
The dancer will need dancing shoes. For girls, black ballet slippers are fine for the first year or so of lessons. Once the dancer progresses to a higher level, you should invest in ghillies (black irish dancing shoes). For boys, black jazz shoes are used. Hard shoes will be needed once the dancer moves up to Class C. These shoes can be purchased online, through Nanny or used from other students in the school (if available).
Are there performances?
The Connemara School performs in several shows each year ranging from low-key danceouts at senior centers to headline appearances at Irish Festivals. You’ll be notified and asked for your interest and availability. Unlike many irish dance schools, many different costumes are employed for performances to provide for a more visually stimulating show. Please note: Attendance will be mandatory for certain practices prior to a show for those participating.
Are dancers eligible for competition?
Connemara is a member of the Rince Tuatha Nua. Dancers are eligible to participate in local, national and world competitions held by RTN or its affiliates. The local competitions or “feiseanna” are held to provide a positive environment in which the dancer can test their skill.
What is a feis? Click Here to learn more about competitions
It is pronounced “Skull Rin-ka na Connemara” and is Gaelic for “Connemara School of Irish Dance”. We have shortened the school name now to be Connemara Irish Dancers.
How old does my child have to be to start Irish Dancing?
Younger dancers can enter the Intro to Irish Dance at age 4. Here, the focus is on having fun and learning about movement and rhythm. Students will learn the basics steps and some easy Ceili dances.
How do I know which class to enroll in?
Aside from the youngest dancers, classes are not separated by age; they are separated by ability. As the dancer learns the required movements; steps and dances, he/she will move up to the next class level (the time spent in each level will vary). The dancers are evaluated on an ongoing basis to ensure they are progressing.
What is the average class size?
For exercises/warm-ups, there may be 10-20 dancers, however, dancers work then break into small groups of 3-5 to work on technique and steps.
When are classes held and how long are the classes?
Classes are held on Sundays. Beginner classes are 30 minutes while all other classes are 1 – 2 hours in length. Additional classes may be scheduled leading up to large/important shows.
Is there a dress code?
Dancers are asked to wear comfortable clothing: shorts, skirts or tighter fitting pants and t-shirts/tank tops. The studio gets very warm in the summer months, so please dress accordingly. No jeans or baggy pants will be permitted as they restrict the dancer’s ability to move and the instructor’s ability to correct their positioning.
What do I need to buy?
The dancer will need dancing shoes. For girls, black ballet slippers are fine for the first year or so of lessons. Once the dancer progresses to a higher level, you should invest in ghillies (black irish dancing shoes). For boys, black jazz shoes are used. Hard shoes will be needed once the dancer moves up to Class C. These shoes can be purchased online, through Nanny or used from other students in the school (if available).
Are there performances?
The Connemara School performs in several shows each year ranging from low-key danceouts at senior centers to headline appearances at Irish Festivals. You’ll be notified and asked for your interest and availability. Unlike many irish dance schools, many different costumes are employed for performances to provide for a more visually stimulating show. Please note: Attendance will be mandatory for certain practices prior to a show for those participating.
Are dancers eligible for competition?
Connemara is a member of the Rince Tuatha Nua. Dancers are eligible to participate in local, national and world competitions held by RTN or its affiliates. The local competitions or “feiseanna” are held to provide a positive environment in which the dancer can test their skill.
What is a feis? Click Here to learn more about competitions