As much as the words "discount", "SALE", "OFFERS" etc sound exciting and appealing to a shopper, they are very annoying, insulting and can be off-putting for artists and art teachers..
I, personally have come across many instances, where prospective students have questioned our "fee-module"
asking " why is your class so expensive? " do you offer discounts if there is a long weekend?" or simply "can I get a discount?"
I often feel , not angry, but hurt and disappointed.. just because performing art is something you cannot touch, see or feel unless you learn it, you cannot put a price tag on it.. Dont value our classes based on no of hours and materia⁰l.
I know so many teachers who go above and beyond to teach their students, not just the art form, but many valuable lessons in life..
Do you pay them for that?
It is also very infuriating, when people have no problem taking expensive piano or ballet lessons ( no discount needed there.. ) but will ask for a discount from us .. just because we speak the same language? or belong to the same community?
Shouldnt we be valuing each other more?
My simple response to all these students.. MY DANCE IS VERY VALUABLE TO ME .. AND I HAVE OVERHEADS , JUST LIKE ANY OTHER BUSINESS."
If you cannot afford a certain class please shop around, we are just happy that you are choosing to learn the art form, from anyone, that suits you the best... but please do not ask for #Discount.. #AppreciateTheArtAndTheArtist