Dance Lesson Packages

“Just sign up for the 10-pack, it’s a better deal!”
– Every studio salesperson ever.

Many studio chains — and even solo instructors — pressure new students to buy “Lesson Packages”: 10, 15, or 20 lessons bundled with promises of “free group classes,” “social dances,” or other 'perks'.

Some studios and studio chains have sales quotas that their employees must meet. Those quotas aren't just on the number of lessons sold but also on the dollar value and student retention as well so there is considerable pressure to 'lock in' dancers.

Here’s the problem: once you’ve signed and paid, you’re locked in.

• What if the teaching is poor?
• What if you don’t connect with the instructor?
• What if you simply change your mind?

Tough. You’ve already prepaid — and refunds are rare.

These packages often serve more as revenue insurance for the studio than a service to the student. While commitment is important in dance, blind commitment isn’t. You wouldn’t pay for 20 meals at a restaurant before trying the food.

So why is this the standard in dance?

Because it benefits the studio and, or teacher. There is no benefit to the student who is now a line item on a spreadsheet.

A Better Model

• Pay-as-you-go with optional multi-class discounts after you've sampled.
• Try a trial lesson that actually feels like one — not just a sales pitch.
• Expect clear deliverables: What will I learn? What will I be able to do afterward?
• ONLY purchase in blocks of 4 or 5 lessons when you are sure that the instructor and studio is what you currently need.

Bottom Line

Lesson packages should be earned through trust, not fear of missing out. If a studio won’t stand behind the quality of a single lesson, why should you buy anything from them?

Want to rant, rave, or suggest a better model? Let us know