Pros & cons of dancing to a live band.

This month has seen a real increase in those choosing to dance to a track performed by their wedding band. It's such a fantastic thing to do - dance the first dance to live music on your wedding day.

You must beware though.

Bands are fabulous because they are creative, this means that they are more likely to put their own stamp on a song. They could increase the tempo for example or even slow it down. I've even known bands to add another chorus, increase an intro and skip a verse. This is all fine unless you have learnt to dance to the original track.

I always, always encourage couples who want to use live music on their wedding day to bring a sample or a demo of their band with them. That way you are dancing to exactly the same tempo from the off. Those bands who promise, promise, promise to copy the original exactly must swear that they will.

Otherwise they will have your wedding dance teacher after them!!

First Post

Hi,

My name is Jess and I am a choreographer and dance teacher. In 2005 I started my own company Start the Dance (www.startthedance.co.uk) which specialises in teaching couples their first dance routine for their wedding.

Over the years I have gathered lots of hints and tips on what makes a great first dance, so I thought that rather than keeping them secret I should share them with you!

I would love to hear from you if you have any questions or tips of your own.

Jess x