WHAT ABOUT MUSIC? BY PJ KWONG

When it comes to selecting music, you and your skater need to speak first and foremost with your coach.   In preparing to create a program, your coach may have some ideas about what kind of music to select for the skater.  That said, it is not unreasonable to want to discuss the potential choices for music for your skater.  In my opinion, and this comes from working with and watching skaters at all levels along the figure skating spectrum, skaters and coaches occasionally make the mistake of choosing music that is entirely unsuitable for the skater.

The things to watch out for include the following:  selecting music whose pace is beyond the ability of the skater, or music that does have enough variety to be able to incorporate different rhythms and types of expression.  Another thing to consider is whether or not the music is the “music du jour” and you are going to hear it at absolutely every competition for the coming season.  In doing research,  I find that occasionally starting off with a loose theme, like classical or ballet music, ethnic, soundtrack or Broadway music or a version of contemporary music.  Although in some disciplines, there can be some vocal music, it is best, if this is your first try, to try and find instrumental music.

You have now found music that you love and your coach approves of.  The next step is to have it put together to the appropriate length and have at least 2 copies made on CD (I then recommend to students to back it up again on cassette). Music for skating programs usually involves someone having to edit it, and I would strongly recommend that you find out form your coach someone in your area that is adept at this.  Having the music done professionally can make all the difference in terms of quality and the way that it will sound in the ice rink.

Don’t forget to put into the mix what it is that you are going to wear to compliment your music choice.  Again, this is very important in the creation of a “total package” for your program and helping you to create the best image for yourself that you possibly can.

More than anything…. this should be fun.  With so much wonderful music and so many different versions of everything from classics to contemporary, there is bound to be something that will bring out the artist in you.

November is the month for tests and lots of competitions, so don’t be disappointed – shop for your new competition dress early.  We have lots of lovely choices for “official practice ice” dresses as well.

Christmas                 Gift Wrapping – for in store purchases, Christmas gift-wrapping is free with a minimum $2.00 donation to Children’s Wish. If you like to shop on line for others – we will gift wrap your purchase and include a gift card.

Great gift idea for Mom!                   Vantage Softec Skates – comfortable, warm, reasonably priced!  Watch for PJ’s article in next month’s newsletter for more information.

Tired of smelly skates and skating bags?  Introducing “Stink-eez” – De Feets odour and sweat!!

Insert the easy slide Stink-eez into the toe of your empty skate.  Stink-eez wicks away moisture and odour from the inside of footwear.  Available in the following scents: vanilla, cinnamon, peppermint, and woodland.

SKATE EXCHANGE

At Dress Wright On Ice we deal in new skates only.  But we frequently get requests from people asking about used skates.  So, we have created a BUY and SELL page on our website www.dresswright.com so that people can post skates that they would like to sell, or requests for skates they need.  To have your requested posted, email us at info@dresswright.com with the pertinent information (brand, quality, size, colour) and an email or phone contact number.  The sale of the skates is strictly between the two private parties.  Dress Wright On Ice Inc. has no responsibility for the skates beyond creating a page to post opportunities for those with skates to buy and sell.  Postings will remain on the page for a period of 3 months, unless we are advised that the skates have been sold. 

Check out our Home Page at www.dresswright.com for information about:                                                      Divisional Championships at Hershey Centre

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