In 2018, the United States Imperial Society for teachers of dancing, a professional organization, voted to admit amateur dancers and form local chapters. The Albany Chapter was the first local chapter in the country to be formed and accepted into the organization. In the Spring of 2021, the United States branch of USISTD decided to break ties with England and form an independent organization AIDA, American International Dancers’ Association. As a result, we are now known as Albany NY AIDA.

 

Our Mission

The purpose of our chapter is twofold; to educate its members and the public in the art of dancing and to promote knowledge of the proper and professionally accepted technique in all types of couples dancing.

One way AIDA encourages improvement in dancing is through medal testing. In a medal test, the dancer needs to demonstrate an understanding of required figures including components such as footwork, alignment, rise and fall, and amount of turn. The medal tests are offered in a variety of syllabus levels: pre-bronze, bronze, silver, and gold. Medal testing is also available in open levels: gold star 1, gold star 2, and gold star 3. There are also professional level exams for Student-Teacher, Associate, Licentiate, and Fellow.

What We've Achieved

  • Monthly Learn and Practice Events

  • Medals Testing (26 people completed 93 medal tests and 2 passed pro exam modules)

  • Dance Camp: Components of Partnered choreography (Professional and Amateur levels) presented by Lori Woods Gay and Cher Rutherford

  • Spring Ballroom Challenge which included a proficiency competition and medal testing

  • Spooktacular Ballroom Challenge: proficiency competitions, medal testing and other dance events.

  • Twice monthly cha cha series of 20 lessons, from beginner to advanced.