Dancing Tid-bits Issue #209, Thursday, February 10, 2004
Today's Topic: US-ISTD Exams
A little while ago I wrote a bunch of Tid-bits on ISTD examinations and all information was based on my personal expereince and my own perceptions. I did recieved a lot of mail, some relevant some not. This letter from Miriam Ellis spells out very clearly what is the length of examinations and why. I thought of putting this e mail verbatum without edition. As most of us know she is a renowned and respectable coach and ISTD Fellow/Examiner. Miriam! Thank you, your input is greatly appreciated.
You will notice that all of the Latin & Rhythm Exams allow 15 minutes more than the Ballroom Exams.The reason is that these exams cover 5 dances, versus the 4 in the Ballroom Department.We Examiners found that we could not do the 5th dance justice; hence the change.
Just to reiterate the fact that an Examiner may not examine any candidate whom he/she has coached within the previous 6 months.Personally, I believe in this rule, as I would find it most difficult to be objective in the exam room with a candidate I have helped train.
Hope this clarifies the above for you.You may use my name any time in connection with my quotes.
P.S. As Ms. Miriam Ellis indicated this is USISTD information but I do believe that this will also be true with ISTD examinations any where in the world. It is also interesting to note that US-ISTD conducts examinations in the American Style also, both Smooth and Rhythm. With Best Wishes, Max
