TV_TyceDiorioTips_02-18-14_MAINEmmy award-winning choreographer (and sometimes guest judge) on Fox’s “So You Think You Can Dance,” Tyce Diorio has choreographed and performed with some of the biggest musical acts in the world. Megastars like Jennifer Lopez, Janet Jackson, Ricky Martin and Paula Abdul!

Not to mention an impressive list of stage and screen performance and/or choreography credits that include “Fame,” “The Oprah Winfrey Show;” huge awards shows like “The Academy Awards;”  the stage versions of “Robin Hood: Men in Tights” and “A Chorus Line;” commercials for iPod and McDonalds….the list goes on and on!

Part of being a fantastic choreographer is knowing how to TEACH your movement and style. As a faculty member of The PULSE on Tour, Tyce works with dancers across the country to bring out their best.

Tyce sent us his exclusive list of expert advice to help you become a better dance teacher:

  1. Have a knowingness of your material in regard to the dancers age, level, connectivity…certain themes or music, genre, style, etc.
  2. Teach beginners for a good while.
  3. Have the ability to articulate and explain how to execute something correctly and safely.
  4. Often times, using an assistant who executes your style and choreography to the highest level is extremely helpful.
  5. Have integrity, knowledge, experience, and respect when dealing with dance and all involved.
  6. Teach thoroughly and slowly if need be, so that all in the class are clear on what the material is to be broken down.
  7. Have a passion for whatever you’re teaching so that it is infused in the dancers.
  8. Work on improv skills and the idea of dancers’ versatility.

Main photo courtesy of The PULSE on Tour!