Learn to Dance
CDF Medal Awards Program
The Medal Awards Program is administered by the Canadian Dancesport Federation (C.D.F.). Its purpose is to establish and reward recognized standards of dancing at various levels for amateur dancers across Canada. Each candidate starts at the Bronze level, and continues through Silver, Gold, Gold Star I, and Gold Star II levels. Each level is progressively more difficult to achieve.
Why do we recommend this?
The Medal Awards program is an excellent way for students to set and achieve a high standard in their dancing. It is a stepwise measurement of progress and a strong motivator for improvement.
By achieving a medal award, you will gain the satisfaction and knowledge that your dancing has reached an internationally recognized level. You are now ready to strive for the next level.
For those students who do not have a regular dance partner, there is no better way to determine your dancing proficiency. Because a medal award is an evaluation of an individual dancer, and not a couple, it is an excellent goal for self improvement.
What dances do I do?
Medals can be achieved in any of three categories.
- Standard: Waltz, Tango, Slow Foxtrot, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz
- Latin: Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, Jive, Paso Doble
How many dances do I have to do?
For Bronze tests, you may choose to dance only 1, 2, or 3 dances but you will only receive a certificate of recognition. In order to achieve a Bronze medal, you have to dance 4 dances of your choice. It is the same number for a Silver medal. For Gold, Gold Star, Gold Bar, and Supreme Award you have to perform all five dances.
What does it cost?
The fees for the evaluations and the minimum number of dances for each level are as follows:
- Bronze
4 Dances, $80 - Silver
4 Dances, $90 - Gold
5 Dances, $110 - Gold Star
5 Dances, $130 - Gold Bar
5 Dances, $140 - Supreme Award
5 Dances, $150
These fees are per person, and are to cover all costs, including examiner fees and studio space rental. Should you choose to dance your exam with your instructor he/she will assess a partnering fee of $20 per dance.
What will I get when I pass?
- An objective Evaluation and helpful Critique of your dancing from your CDF examiner.
- A Certificate suitable for framing showing level and standard attained (Pass, Commended, Highly Commended, or Honours).
- A CDF Medal.
- Official Grand Ballroom jacket (Gold medal only).
- Official Grand Ballroom vest (Gold Star only).
- Inclusion in The Grand Ballroom Medal Award Honour Roll.
- And most of all… the satisfaction of reaching your goal!
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Can I skip a level and dance Silver without doing Bronze first?
Yes, a student may enter the Medal Program at any level. However, once you are in the program, then you must follow the levels in succession (Bronze-Silver-Gold-Gold Star-Gold Bar-Supreme).
Are there other people going to be watching me being tested?
No. The only people in the room will be you and your dance partner, the examiner, the D.J. and possibly your teacher.
What should I wear for the evaluation?
Ladies - please wear a skirt or dress (no slacks), and high-heeled dance shoes are preferable to flat practice shoes. Gentlemen - dress slacks, shirt and tie. A vest or cardigan sweater is probably better than a jacket since the shoulders usually ride up in a jacket when your arms are up.
Will there be any place to warm-up on the day of my evaluation?
Yes, you will be able to warm up on the South Floor behind the curtain. You will not however, be able to use the music.
Can I choose my own music?
Yes. Please let us know ahead of time so that the D.J. is prepared.
When should I arrive? Is there anything else I need to do on that day?
You should be ready 1/2 hour before your test time. Your coach will help you to fill out your evaluation sheet, (name, dances, etc.) prior to your test. You will give the sheet to your examiner prior to your dancing.
Can I choose which dance I wish to do first?
Yes. Write down the order of dances on your marks sheet.
How long will I have to dance?
Approximately 1 1/2—2 minutes maximum per person, per dance. If you and your partner are both being evaluated you will have to dance each dance twice so that the examiner can fairly access each of you.
If I start off time can I stop and start again?
Yes, you can certainly start your routine again if you have made a mistake.
Do I have to take Private Lessons?
No, but it is highly recommended if you are expecting more than just a passing grade. One-on-one instruction is the fastest way to improve your dancing. On average, it takes 4 months of training for a Bronze test, 6 months for Silver, 1 year each for Gold and Gold Star.
Your instructor will… * Put together proper syllabus routines for each dance of your medal test. * Instruct you on the correct technique and styling for every dance variation. * Set up and explain to you the schedule of training and practice exercises. * Clarify for you as to the expectations of the examiner. * Advise you on the procedures on medal test day. * Teach you at the pace that is most comfortable for you. * Dance your routine with you for your medal test if you do not have a regular partner.
Am I competing against other students?
Not at all. Your examiner will be evaluating your dancing based on an accepted national standard and will also take into account your age group. You will be given one of the following grades: Pass, Commended, High Commended, Honours. The grades are not posted and the evaluation for will be given back to you the next day.
How do I get involved?
Contact any one of The Grand Ballroom instructors, or our receptionist (at info@grandballroom.com) for the next medal test date. CDF Metal Tests are held at The Grand Ballroom two times year. You will be advised of the registration procedure which must be done at least one month prior to the exam date.
Please feel free to ask Andy or Wendy for further information.