Frequently Asked Questions
ver. Jan 2024
How old does my child have to be to start at Kathak Rhythms?
The minimum age that we recommend students begin learning this classical art form is age 6. By this age, children have the ability to stay focused, pay attention, follow directions, read/write and in addition have developed coordination skills and body awareness.
Am I too ‘old’ to start learning Kathak?
Kathak can be learned by anyone age 6 and above, including teens, adults and seniors. It is not true that you can only learn to dance as a child. For middle aged and older adults, learning Kathak may challenge your physical, musical and artistic capacity but depending on the amount of work and dedication you invest, it is absolutely within your means to learn this art. Over 50% of our students are adults and we find them to be highly dedicated and committed.
I have learned/am learning another form of classical Indian dance. Is it still possible to learn Kathak
Yes! Experience in any classical Indian dance form does not hinder your capacity to learn Kathak. All classical dance forms share roots in the Natya Shastra. While some concepts may be familiar to you due to your classical background, others might take you some time to adapt to. You may be a quick learner and progress faster in the syllabus.
How does Kathak Rhythms split age groups and what is the average class size
Our goal is to group students of similar ages and levels. Due to low enrollment, location or schedule limitations, we may combine classes of different age groups. At the start of each semester (August and January) we attempt to realign classes according to age group and enrollment. Average class sizes are 12-15 students per class. In classes over 15 students, a teaching assistant is present to ensure each student get adequate attention.
Who will be teaching the class?
Our Director, Akhila Rao, or our senior students teach classes. Our senior students, with over 7 – 10 years of experience in Kathak, teach our lower level classes as part of their Visharad training. The student-teachers are supervised by our Director, who teaches Level 4 and above. Student-teachers also assist in classes with over 15 students enrolled
What are the class timings and locations
Our class schedule for each semester is set in August and January each year. Currently our classes are held at our Plano location on Monday – Friday evenings from 4 pm – 9 pm. Classes in Southlake are held on Monday – Thursday from 5 pm onwards. Classes are also offered in Austin, led by our student-teachers and via Zoom.
Weekends are reserved for our senior level classes (7 and above).
Weekends are reserved for our senior level classes (7 and above).
Do you offer a trial class
We do not offer a trial class, as classical dance cannot be fairly assessed in a single class. You may request come to our studio to watch a class to gauge your interest. Serious learners should try-out classes for at least 3 months to get a fair idea of training style and expectations in their Kathak journey
I have been learning/have learnt Kathak in the past. How would I be placed into a particular class level
We ask that you come in and meet with us to demonstrate anything you may remember. We will recommend an appropriate class level to join based on our assessment. If you have completed any exams with institutions in India or USA, we can determine the equivalent level to our affiliated institutions
If I miss a class, do you offer a make-up class
During our regular Fall and Spring sessions, make-up classes are permitted within 1 month of the missed class in a parallel class level, if available. Make up classes may be taken whenever a student misses a scheduled class or there is an unexpected closure due to weather/power. We do not offer make up classes for scheduled breaks such as Thanksgiving or Christmas/NewYear’s. We do not prorate tuition if you are unable to make-up your missed classes. Summer classes will likely not have a parallel class available for make-up lessons and an absence will be non-refundable
Is there a dress code for class
We require traditional attire to be worn for every class – For adults this is a knee length kurta or anarkali with full-length leggings. Kids may wear a knee length dress with full-length leggings. Dupatta is optional, but should be pinned in place if worn. Hair must be secured in a ponytail or braid and pinned away from the face. Ghungroos are required to be worn in every class after the initial few beginner level classes
How long does it take to complete learning at Kathak Rhythms
Lessons are taught according to a set syllabus with 7 levels from Prarambhik to Visharad Purna (Bachelor’s equivalent). Typical training time per level ranges from 1 to 3 years based on the students' passion and commitment to practice, in addition to class hours. Many of our students who have completed Visharad Purna are currently pursuing Master’s level or Alankaar. Keep in mind that learning Indian Classical dance is a lifelong pursuit!
With which institution are you affiliated for certification
We are affiliated with Samved Conservatory of Indian Classical Music and Dance, NJ and Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal, Mumbai, India who conduct bi-annual written and practical exams (April/November) each year with an external examiner.
When can a student begin performing
While Kathak is a performing art, the early stages of learning focus on technique and movement. All students get the opportunity to perform at our annual recital, Kathak Bahaar in April or October.
Emphasis on presentation and style is placed in the intermediate and advanced years with plenty of opportunities to perform at community and professional events.
Emphasis on presentation and style is placed in the intermediate and advanced years with plenty of opportunities to perform at community and professional events.
How do you select a student/group for outside performances
Students will be selected for individual/group performance at events based on expectations for the event, ability to commit to practice and student capability. For professional events, our senior performers (Visharad graduates) are chosen.
What are the class fees
We charge a one-time Registration fee ($75) for new enrolling students. Tuition charges begin at $85/month (payable quarterly) for beginner classes and increase with the progression through the levels. Detailed class charges are provided upon completion of Registration
Are there any other charges payable during the training
Other charges that may be applicable are annual Recital fees, Exam fees, Late fees etc. A late fee ($10) is charged if tuition is not paid within the due date for each quarter
Where can I purchase Ghungroos
High quality Kathak ghungroos are available for purchase at our studio. We do not recommend purchasing from the web stores, due to incorrect size or inconsistent quality. The class teacher will advise students when they are ready to practice with Ghungroos
I am traveling for an extended duration in the Winter or Summer break, do you prorate tuition for these missed classes
Tuition is paid within the first 2 weeks of each quarter (Aug-Sept, Oct–Dec, Jan–Mar, Apr–May). We do not prorate tuition if you are traveling during these times. You are welcome to make up the missed classes when you return. Per our school policy, students taking a ‘break’ from scheduled classes will be considered a NEW enrollment