Subject: UKA or not????
From: mathieg2 (Graeme Mathieson)
Date: Wednesday 12th February 2003, 1:14 pm

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Angie I have also been informed that they only recognise 'cuban' style salsa - not NY (their version of mambo - from what I've heard/seen - is Ballroom style - which is very different to what is being danced worldwide in clubs,
 END QUOTE 

Not strictly true, the UKA recognise NY on1, LA style, cuban, columbian, etc, etc - I'm not sure about the on2 style at the moment.

Also, technique forms a big part of the exam marking scheme. In my first exam, I was pulled up for 'not dancing into the floor' or words to that effect - other examinees were pulled up for various other faults, and the UKA teacher who submitted all the students for the exams was given feedback on the overall performance of the class, pulling up common faults, and highlighting areas where the class did well, so that he could improve the quality of his teaching.

It is useful to get a stranger's opinion of your dancing, as your own teacher will find it hard to be totally impartial.

On the money making side of things, the amateur exams are designed mainly to make money for the UKA, but the teachers exams are designed primarily as a differentiator between a good teacher, and a fly-by-night cowboy.

Passing a teachers exam is not easy - you really need to know what you are talking about. AFAIK the salsa style you choose is up to you - its the quality of your teaching that matters, rather than the style of salsa you choose to teach. Like any other organisation, if the UKA wants to survive, it needs to change with the times - and I am sure the people at the top of the organisation recognise this - otherwise, god help them!

Cheers

Graeme

   


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