Individual Dance Lessons in Durham, NC

At Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Durham, our individual dance lessons pair you one-on-one with a certified instructor, no partner required. Whether you are just starting out or returning to dance with some experience, private lessons give you a comfortable, personalized environment to build technique and confidence at your own pace.

Student taking a private individual dance lesson with a certified instructor in Durham, NC

Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Durham has taught individual dance lessons since 1987, part of a national brand founded in 1947. We are one of the largest dance studios in the Research Triangle, and our studio is owned and taught by working professional dancers, not just staffed by them. Our studio is located at 4702 Garrett Road, easily accessible with plenty of parking.

What Makes Private Dance Lessons So Effective?

Solo lessons are the fastest, most focused way to learn. With a dedicated instructor by your side, you can:

  • Work at your own pace without distractions
  • Get immediate, hands-on feedback and corrections
  • Build confidence in movement, posture, and musical timing
  • Learn more efficiently with direct, one-on-one support

These sessions are ideal for beginners, advanced dancers, or anyone looking to progress on their own schedule.

Meet the Instructors Guiding Your Individual Dance Lessons

Because individual dance lessons pair you directly with your instructor for the full session, who that instructor is matters more here than in a group class. Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Durham is owned and taught by working dance professionals.

Oksana Klyuchnyk - Fred Astaire Durham Co-Owner and Professional Dance Instructor

Oksana Klyuchnyk, Co-Owner and Professional Dance Instructor

Oksana started dancing at age 7 and competed for the Ukrainian National Dance Team, winning or reaching the finals in numerous national and international Ballroom and Latin championships.

Yuriy Simakov - Fred Astaire Durham Owner and Professional Dance Instructor

Yuriy Simakov, Owner and Professional Dance Instructor

Yuriy began dancing at age 7 in Ukraine, became a national champion at 12, and went on to build a successful international dance career, winning ballroom titles in Germany, Russia, Poland, Moldova, the Czech Republic, and Bulgaria.

When you book an individual dance lesson with us, your instructor becomes your dance partner for the session. Every instructor on our team is certified and has competed at a national or international level, so you are learning from someone who has done what they teach, not just studied it.

Choose the Style That Moves You

Our Durham instructors are trained across a wide range of dance styles. You will have the flexibility to choose what best fits your interests:

From elegant to energetic, we will help you master the moves that speak to you most.

Why Learn Solo?

Dancing on your own provides a level of personal growth and precision you might not experience in a group setting:

  • No need to match someone else’s pace or style
  • You can focus purely on your technique and comfort
  • It is easier to develop balance, rhythm, and control early on
  • Your instructor customizes each session to your exact needs

Many of our individual dance lesson students later move into group classes or social dancing with a strong foundation already in place.

Why Durham Dancers Choose Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Durham

individual dance lessons in durham nc
  • Family owned and operated in Durham since 1987, with a heritage that traces back to Fred Astaire himself in 1947
  • Certified instructors with national and international competition experience serve as your one-on-one dance partner
  • Private, individual dance lessons paced to your goals, not a fixed curriculum
  • Monthly group dance parties and events, so solo students have a low-pressure way to practice socially once they are ready
  • Open Monday through Friday, 12:00 pm to 9:30 pm, with lesson times built around work schedules

Introductory Offer for New Students

New to our studio? We are excited to welcome you with an exclusive new student introductory special: $59 for your first two individual dance lessons. It is a perfect opportunity to join our Durham community of dancers and feel the rhythm of your favorite dance moves without a partner.

couples dance lessons in Durham, NC offer

Frequently Asked Questions

No, these lessons are designed with a solo dancer in mind. Individual dance lessons are structured as one-on-one sessions with your instructor, who will guide and partner with you during instruction.

 

You will be matched with one of our certified instructors based on your goals and schedule. Every instructor on our team, including studio owners Yuriy Simakov and Oksana Klyuchnyk, has trained and competed at a national or international level.You will be matched with one of our certified instructors based on your goals and schedule. Every instructor on our team, including studio owners Yuriy Simakov and Oksana Klyuchnyk, has trained and competed at a national or international level.

There is no formal dress code. Just wear comfortable clothing and smooth-soled shoes that allow freedom of movement.

 

Standard private lessons run for 30 minutes, with extended options available upon request.

 

Yes. Your instructor will customize the lesson plan to suit your dance style preference, skill level, and goals.

Absolutely. Our instructors specialize in working with beginners and will make sure you feel comfortable from day one.

Start Dancing Today at Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Durham

Schedule your first individual dance lesson by calling us at 919-489-4313 or filling out the form below. Our friendly staff will assist you in booking your session and answer any questions. Not only will you have access to our team of certified instructors, but you will also have access to our group dance parties and other fun monthly events.

Start Dancing Today!

Just fill out the form and you will be contacted soon!