1, 2, 3, 4…How To Work With A Choreographer

Check out the all our tips for choreography in the free Cheerleading Guide to Choreography! You’ve hired a choreographer to take your cheerleading squad to the next level, to improve your cheerleaders’ skills and to win competitions, but do you know what to expect when working with one? Should you be prepared for a diva, like you see in the movies and on TV? How much say do you have in how they interact with your team? Chances are, you did your research before choosing a choreographer so you already have a good idea of their personality. You should have hired someone that you think will mesh well with you, your coaching style and your squad, but things could get intense once the actual rehearsals start. Before the choreographer starts working with your team, sit down with them and go over your house rules. Having “too many cooks in the kitchen’, or two people who both think they are in charge, will confuse and frustrate your team. Welcome Them To The Floor or Show Them The Door? Here are some things that you should expect your choreographer to do, and some things you should not expect or put up with. The Routine Floor. At the core of a choreographer’s job is their ability to create routines. The only time you should oppose the choreographer is when they are developing moves that break the rules of your school or competitions. Otherwise, you need to trust their judgment and creativity – that is what you hired them for! If you don’t like their routine, talk to them privately about where you think it needs improvement or changes. Door. A choreographer who doesn’t consider your team’s skill level, safety and rules is no good. These are things that should be discussed before you hire them, and if they do not respect your team, you need to find someone that will. Teaching The Moves Floor. Your choreographer should be on site and use a mix of spoken instructions and actual live examples to teach your squad the moves. The examples should be sharp, precise and include advise on mastering the techniques. The spoken instructions should provide direction and rhythm. Door. The choreographer needs to be on site to help train your squad. A video or workbook of instructions just isn’t going to cut it. In order to be technically on point, your team will need to see a live demonstration of the choreography. Also, if the choreographer is not there, they can’t spot and adjust incorrect technique. Choosing The Music Floor. Since your choreography will need to work closely with the music to create the right routine, they will need to have some say in the music. It might be best to just let them choose the music and ask that you be allowed to give final approval. The cheer music mix that your choreographer brings should be unique for your team, and reflect your team’s style. Door. If your choreographer brings music that is outdated, unexciting or completely off base for your team, you need to let them know. Also, anything that is inappropriate should be addressed immediately. If your choreographer refuses to consider changing the music, you need to consider hiring someone else. Tips For Working With A Choreographer Schedule. Do you want the choreography to come for a weekend camp, or during practices for a week or two? Be mindful of your team’s schedule, and of your choreographer’s other commitments. Many choreographers will be working with several dance or cheerleading teams at any given time, and might also own a gym or studio. Do your best to time choreography rehearsals at the most convenient times. Expectations. Don’t make any arrangements without first agreeing on terms. If the choreographer doesn’t provide a contract, draft one yourself for your records. Make sure that you document the terms of your fee, including choosing or providing music, hours of instruction, creation of a unique routine, development of incorporation of stunts and anything else that you discuss. Communication. Being able to voice your concerns is a must when working with a choreographer. You should have a comfortable, professional relationship with the choreographer that allows you to discuss parts of the routine that you are not happy with. Of course, you need to make sure that you do not try to over influence or control the routine. The choreographer should listen to your concerns and incorporate your suggestions where they feel appropriate, but keep in mind that they are not required to make all your changes. You need to accept that and trust them as an expert. Follow up. Keep in touch with your choreographer even after your training sessions end. Let them know how the team is doing, and if they place at any competitions. You can also send a team photo to the choreographer. It’s not only a nice thing to do, but it will build a great relationship that will remind the choreographer to contact you about booking time if their schedule for next year starts to fill up.