Semi-Private Group Classes

At Ballroom Dance Chicago, we believe private lessons are the most effective way to learn to dance—because they’re fully personalized to your goals, experience, and pace. But we also know that private lessons aren’t the right fit for everyone.

That’s why we offer semi-private classes: a budget-friendly, low-pressure alternative that still gives you plenty of teacher attention. In these small group settings, you’ll work closely with your own partner while receiving expert guidance. It’s an ideal option for couples who want focused instruction without the intensity (or cost) of a fully private lesson.

Semi-private classes might be right for you if you:

• Want to dance mainly with your own partner

• Feel more comfortable learning in a small group

• Are looking for a more affordable way to take lessons together

• Appreciate a relaxed, low-pressure atmosphere

• Want to build confidence before jumping into larger group classes

• Prefer something more structured than practicing on your own

Sound like your vibe? Reach out to sign up or learn more.

If you're looking for more individualized feedback, advanced technique, or personalized choreography (especially for a first dance), private lessons might be your best option.

Nope! Semi-private classes are designed specifically so you can dance exclusively with the partner you came with.

Many couples join dance classes to connect with each other—not to rotate partners in class or when they go out to dance socially. That’s exactly who these classes are for. You’ll stay in your own partnership throughout the lesson, with guidance from your teacher tailored to you and your partner's progress.

To attend a semi-private class, yo do need a partner.

If you’re a solo dancer, we have classes for you! Head to our group class page where we offer a variety of group class options including Crash Courses, 4th Saturday Socials, and all of our Dancesport Group Classes.

At our studio, comfort and movement are key for your dance attire. Most people wear casual clothes like jeans, t-shirts, or comfortable dresses that allow for easy movement. The most important thing is that you feel good in what you're wearing.

For shoes, the best choices are those that allow you to glide across the floor easily, such as dress shoes, flats, or low heels with smooth soles. Avoid sneakers, sandals, or any footwear that might slip off or hinder your movement. And remember, if heels aren't for you, flats work just as well for dancing.

If you're considering getting dance-specific shoes, your instructor can guide you to the right pair for your dance style. They're a great investment as you progress in your dance journey.

When it comes to accessories and fashion choices, practicality is important. Avoid long necklaces and large rings that could get in the way, and opt for simpler jewelry. If wearing skirts or dresses, shorts underneath are a good idea for more vigorous dances. For those with long hair, tying it back can help avoid any accidental whips during spins.

Overall, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident, and you'll be ready for most of the classes we offer!

They can be a great starting point! First Dance Prep Semi-Private classes are ideal for couples with a 6+ month timeline who want to feel more comfortable moving together on the dance floor without jumping straight into private lessons. You’ll focus on essential partner connection, timing, and simple movements that can translate beautifully to a wedding setting.

These classes are especially helpful if you want a relaxed, low-pressure way to start dancing as a couple—and you’ll never have to dance with anyone else. However, if you’re working on specific choreography, have a unique song choice, or want personalized feedback, private lessons are the best fit.

Ballroom Dance Chicago is the top-rated studio in Chicago for couples preparing to dance for their wedding, so we know our stuff! If you’d like to read reviews of past wedding students, check out our reviews. We have dozens of 5-star reviews on the Knot from students who found private instruction incredibly helpful. 

If you have 6+ months before your wedding and are interested in a consultation to figure out the best path forward, please contact us or feel free to book that here.

Absolutely! When we’re speaking about general dance experience, this is a very common dynamic. In most styles of partner dancing, it doesn’t cause a major imbalance. These dances are designed around connection, not individual expertise, so one person having more general dance experience doesn’t usually affect the learning process.

That said, if one of you has specific experience in the exact style you’ll be learning, we recommend starting fresh with a style that’s new for both of you. Why? Semi-private classes include independent practice time, and we often see the more experienced partner unintentionally slip into a teaching role. While well-intentioned, that dynamic can get in the way of learning and balanced connection.

In this case, a private lesson is the best fit. It allows both of you to stay engaged as learners while the instructor leads the process and offers guidance tailored to each of you.

Absolutely! Semi-private classes are an excellent option for dancers who want a more personal experience without the spotlight of a full private lesson. In these sessions, you'll be part of a small group, but you’ll only be working with your own partner—so it’s easy to stay in your own little dance bubble. You get to practice with guidance from a teacher while still enjoying the energy of being around other dancers.

These classes offer a welcoming, low-pressure space that’s perfect for beginners. You'll focus on your own partnership while getting helpful guidance and time to practice. Our teachers are supportive and experienced, here to help you build confidence—not to judge. Everyone starts somewhere, and we're here to make sure your first steps feel comfortable, fun, and encouraging.

For most group classes at Ballroom Dance Chicago, only wine or beer is permitted. One bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer is allowed for every couple. Feel free to bring any non-alcoholic beverages as well! Ballroom Dance Chicago provides water, glassware, and bottle openers for each class, so don’t worry about bringing anything beyond your drink of choice. No liquor is ever allowed.

Due to the nature of the Dancesport group classes, they are not BYOB.

Our semi-private group class syllabus at Ballroom Dance Chicago stands apart from traditional ballroom studios. Unlike rigid syllabi focused on dance competitions, our normal syllabus is designed for social dancing in real-life settings like bars, wedding receptions, or even at home. We save the competitive moves for the Dancesport classes.

We prioritize leading and following techniques while exploring musicality in various dance styles. Each time you’re in the studio, you'll discover new dance concepts that enhance your ability to connect with the music and move expressively with your partner. Our classes are about more than just learning fancy moves; they're about connecting to the music and enjoying the dance experience.

Students can jump in at any time; while we continue building on material throughout the group class sessions, we do this on an individual basis, so you don’t need to come consistently to feel like they know what’s going on.

If you have specific questions about the dance styles covered or want more details about our syllabus, please don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Yes! Our schedule is subject to change, but head to the schedule and filter by location to view your options.

Make-Up and Refund Policy:

For drop-in classes, if you need to reschedule, just let us know at least 24 hours before your class. Please remember, if a class is missed without a 24-hour notice, we're unable to offer a credit for that session.

If you booked a flexible 4 week or 8 week class, there are no make-ups or refunds if you were unable to complete you classes in the alloted 5 or 9 weeks.

Our class sizes are intentionally kept small to enhance your learning experience, and this policy plays a key role in helping us manage the schedule effectively for everyone. Thanks so much for your understanding and cooperation!

If you need to cancel or reschedule, you can do this via phone or email.

We do not offer refunds for missed or cancelled classes. All drop-in credits will go back on your account with the studio and do not expire. 4 week and 8 week courses do expire after 5 and 9 weeks.

Yes! We offer flexible 4-class and 8-class courses designed to help you build consistency in your learning—without locking you into a rigid schedule. Unlike traditional sessions with set start dates, your course begins whenever you’re ready. You choose the start date that works best for you.

We’ve found that most people learn better when they commit to something regularly. Our course model gives you that structure, while still allowing room for real life.

Here’s how it works:

• A 4-class course gives you 5 weeks to complete your classes

• An 8-class course gives you 9 weeks to complete your classes

• Both are available purchase options when you book any drop-in.

This flexibility means you can skip a week if needed—no pressure, no make-up classes required. And because we track your individual progress, you’ll always be learning at the pace that’s right for you. Whether you’re moving quickly or taking your time, you’ll be placed where you can thrive.

It’s structured learning—on your schedule.