Choosing music for a dance class: tempo, mood and licensing

Music is half of a dance class. It sets the tempo, shapes the mood and gives students something to move to. But picking tracks takes more thought than putting on a favourite song. The beat has to suit the step, the energy has to suit the section, and the licence has to suit the venue. This guide covers all three.

Match tempo to the exercise

Tempo is usually measured in beats per minute (BPM). Different exercises need different speeds, and different styles have their own norms.

Follow the norms of your style. In some forms, rhythm cycles, counts or live accompaniment define the tempo, and teachers may use a drum, claps or a vocal count instead of recorded music.

Learn to count the music

A track with a clear beat is easier to teach to. Practise counting 8s or the cycle of your tradition, and choose tracks where the structure is easy to hear: clear phrases, predictable length, no sudden changes.

Work slower, then faster

When teaching a step, use slower music or half-speed so students can learn the movement. Many music players can slow a track without changing pitch. Then play at full speed. See teaching choreography so it sticks.

Build a playlist

1. Plan the class first, then the music.
2. List sections and the feel for each.
3. Choose two or three options for each section.
4. Put them in order and test it.
5. Check lengths. Tracks should fit exercises without awkward gaps.
6. Prepare a backup, downloaded to your device.

Think about content

• Lyrics. Make sure they are suitable for the age group and setting.
• Culture. Respect traditions when using devotional or ceremonial music.
• Variety. Mix styles to keep things fresh.
• Taste. Ask students for suggestions. For teens, see hip hop class plan for teens.

Sound and volume

• Test the speaker and the room.
• Keep the music loud enough to feel, but quiet enough to hear your voice.
• Use a microphone for large rooms if needed.
• Protect hearing, especially for younger children and teachers who spend long hours in classes.

Live music

Live musicians, such as a pianist, drummer or tabla player, bring life to class. They need a clear brief: tempo, length and how to start and stop. Meet before class and agree signals. Pay and credit them fairly.

Licensing and permission

If you play music in a public or commercial class, you may need a licence. Rules vary by country and venue, and personal streaming subscriptions are often limited to private use. Check with the venue, a local licensing body or a provider of music for fitness and dance classes. When you post class videos online, check the licence for that use too. See class-to-social-media posts.

A similar issue in yoga

Many of the same decisions apply in yoga classes. See yoga class music for ideas on silence and soft backgrounds.

Warm-up music

A calm start eases students in. See a dance warm-up routine for how music can support the opening of class.

Planning a Bollywood class? See the Bollywood dance class plan.

How Abhyava helps

Abhyava stores your class plans, so you can note the track or tempo for each section and reuse it next time.

Frequently asked questions

How fast should dance music be?

It depends on the step and style. Choose a tempo where students can move cleanly.

Can I use any song from a streaming service?

Not always in a commercial class. Check licences.

Should I always use music?

No. Counting, clapping or silence can sharpen focus on technique.

How do I make my own count tracks?

Record a voice count or a simple beat. Make sure you have rights to any music you include.