About Me
My name is Paul, an experienced and qualified professional dance teacher, trainer, choreographer, coach and mentor specialising in International Style Latin American dance(cha cha cha, rumba, samba, paso doble and jive), ballroom or sometimes called modern or standard dance(waltz, tango, foxtrot and quickstep) and classical sequence dance (old time waltz, tangos, gavottes, saunters and two-steps).
After 28 years at Leamington Dance Centre, formally known as 'The Majestic School of Ballroom Dancing', I am now teaching at Newburgh Primary School, Warwick. Many thanks to all those who have supported me over the years and those who continue to support high quality teaching by professional, experienced and qualified dance teachers.
I have personal interest in and teach salsa, merengue and bachata. I am available for short workshops and can get people dancing to music within 5 minutes with a partner in a fun and relaxing manner that can be a great interlude at any celebration.
BRIEF HISTORY...
I competed in International Style Latin American and classical sequence competitions for many years before I turned professional and began teaching. During that time I was trained by some of the World's top trainers and coaches including my professional training to become a dance teacher at 'The Majestic School of Ballroom Dancing' (now known as the Leamington Dance Centre) in Royal Leamington Spa. Since then I have taught a wide range classes from beginners to various grades of medallist work and private lessons for individuals and couples. I have trained many students, associates and members for their professional qualifications. In all my work I have very high standards and expectations while respecting difference and abilities of those I teach.
I am currently a triple Fellow of the International Dance Teachers Association (FIDTA)in Ballroom, Latin American and Classical Sequence.
PRIVATE LESSONS...
I am available for private lessons for couples (preferrably who already have experience) courtesy of Newburgh Primary School, Warwick. I have unique style of working which has been profoundly influenced by my training to become a Registered Dance / Movement Psychotherapist which essentially is the about psychotherapeutic use of dance / movement. You can find out more on my website at www.quietmindz.co.uk. In my work I use a wide range of teaching techniques with the addition of techniques including imagery, kinaesthetic awareness, use of gravity, posture, gesture, physicality, energy and efficiency, use of centre, musicality, movement analysis using Laban's Effort/Shape.
My continuing professional development includes attending major dance festivals, conferences, workshops, lectures, seminars, reading and writing.
TEACHER TRAINING...
I am also available for experienced dancers (at least to 1st Gold Bar standard in both ballroom and Latin American dance) who wish to train to become qualified professional dance teachers. I specialise in training dynamic 'thinking' teachers of a high standard of demonstration and teaching ability, focussing on their own dance performance, the written technique and various teaching methodologies and skills.
I have a major concern that far too many unqualified and therefore uninsured 'dance teachers' are being employed by colleges and adult education centres. Someone could get injured through inexperience and lack of appropriate skill and knowledge. If you are receiving dance lessons, ask the teacher for proof of qualifications and their insurance. If you want a challenge and train with me, give me a call.
COUNSELLING / DANCE MOVEMENT PSYCHOTHERAPY...
I am also an experienced and qualified Integrative Counsellor / Psychotherapist(MBACP) and a Registered Dance / Movement Psychotherapist (RDMP). I am currently in advanced training in Gestalt Psychotherapy in York.
About Me