Murray Irish Dance School

- 8785 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Portland, OR 97225

Murray Irish Dance School, situated in Portland, Oregon, is an institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Irish dance. The school provides a variety of classes for all ages and skill levels, from young beginners taking their first steps to advanced dancers preparing for competition. As a women-owned business, the school is led by an owner who is passionate about both the art form and the community it fosters. The school offers a range of training programs and performances designed to help students grow as dancers and individuals.

The school's owner, Geraldine Murray, is noted as Oregon's first and longest-certified teacher through CLRG Dublin, Ireland, and is also a professional Irish musician. This background lends an authentic and deep understanding of the art form to the instruction provided. A key component of the school's mission is to offer an authentic Irish cultural experience, helping students develop physical strength, coordination, and a deeper appreciation for Irish music and traditions. The school welcomes students of all backgrounds, emphasizing that you don't have to be Irish to learn and love Irish dancing.

However, public reviews for the school present a mixed and highly polarized view of the environment. While a positive review praises the instructor, stating, "If you really want to learn great technique and excel in Irish dance she is the one to go to. Geraldine is patient and pushes her students to challenge themselves. Strongly recommend this school," another review paints a picture of a difficult and unstable environment. This review mentions that parents are "banned from watching her class," and alleges that the teacher would "yell and belittle" students. The same reviewer claims the teacher would "check their social media" and make students unfollow other dancers, creating a "very controlling" and "stressful dance environment." It is alleged that the teacher would "randomly kick kids out of her school for no reason," causing fear among the students. These conflicting accounts suggest that the experience at the school can be very different depending on an individual’s perspective and involvement. Potential students and parents should consider both sides of the public feedback when making a decision about this school.

The Murray Irish Dance School is located at 8785 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Portland, OR 97225, USA. This location places it in a convenient area for residents of both Portland and Beaverton, making it easily accessible for families in the greater metropolitan area. The school has made efforts to ensure accessibility, providing a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, which accommodates students and visitors with mobility needs. The proximity to major thoroughfares in the area makes commuting to the studio straightforward for classes and performances. The location and accessibility features make it a viable option for a wide range of individuals interested in Irish dance.

The school is noted as "Good for kids," with a focus on providing a structured and engaging environment for young learners. As a women-owned business, the school contributes to the vibrant landscape of female entrepreneurship in the Portland area. The school's public-facing information highlights a range of classes and programs designed to accommodate different ages and skill levels, aiming to provide a comprehensive training experience. While a membership may be required, students can find more specific details by contacting the school directly.

Murray Irish Dance School offers a broad range of services designed to help students of all levels, from novice to advanced, to develop their skills in Irish dance. The curriculum includes both group and private instruction, allowing for personalized attention and tailored training. The school's classes cover various aspects of Irish dance, music, and performance, providing a well-rounded artistic education.

• Beginner's and Youth Classes: The school provides classes for young children and new students to learn the foundational steps and techniques of Irish dance in a fun and engaging way.
• Teen Classes and Adult Lessons: Recognizing that dance is a lifelong pursuit, the school offers dedicated classes for teenagers and adults, allowing them to start or continue their Irish dance journey at any age.
• Intermediate and Advanced Level Classes: For students who wish to excel in their training, the school offers classes that focus on more complex choreography, solo dances, and competitive preparation.
• Irish Dance Training and School Classes: These programs are designed to provide a structured curriculum that builds upon previous knowledge, leading students through various levels of the art form.
• Private Lessons: Students can book private sessions for one-on-one instruction to focus on specific areas for improvement, work on solo dances, or prepare for competitions.
• Summer Dance Camps and Weekend Classes: The school offers flexible options such as summer camps and weekend classes to accommodate different schedules and provide an immersive learning experience.

The school's public profile highlights several key features that may be appealing to those interested in Irish dance in the Oregon area. These features are designed to create a comprehensive and accessible learning environment.

• Variety of Classes: The school offers a wide range of classes, from youth and teen classes to adult lessons and private instruction, catering to a diverse student body with different goals.
• Authentic Instruction: The owner is a certified teacher from a Dublin-based organization and a professional musician, which provides a level of authenticity and expertise in both dance and music.
• Performance Opportunities: The school offers Irish dance performances, including solo and group dances, giving students the chance to showcase their skills and gain performance experience.
• Inclusive Accessibility: With a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, the school is designed to be welcoming to individuals with physical disabilities, making the art of Irish dance more accessible.
• Women-Owned Business: The fact that the school is women-owned is a notable feature for those who wish to support female entrepreneurship and leadership in the arts community.

For more information on class schedules, enrollment, or to get in touch with the school, you can contact the Murray Irish Dance School directly. Their address is 8785 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Portland, OR 97225, USA. You can reach them by phone at (503) 239-3756. It is advisable to contact the school to ask specific questions about their class structure, teaching methods, and studio policies, especially given the range of public feedback available.

When considering Murray Irish Dance School, it's worth weighing the different aspects of its reputation and offerings. The school provides a solid foundation in Irish dance, with an instructor who is praised for her technical expertise and ability to challenge students to "excel." The variety of classes, from youth to adult lessons and solo to group performances, is a definite draw for those seeking a comprehensive Irish dance education. However, the school's online reputation is highly polarized, with conflicting accounts from customers. The positive feedback highlights a professional and goal-oriented environment, while the negative feedback alleges a stressful and controlling atmosphere. These contrasting views are important for potential students and their families to be aware of. The school's commitment to accessibility is a positive point, ensuring that a wider audience can participate. For those who prioritize a rigorous, competitive-focused environment, the school's focus on technique and advanced training might be a good fit, but it is recommended that interested parties thoroughly investigate the school's culture and teaching style to determine if it aligns with their personal values and goals for their child's dance experience.

Murray Irish Dance School

8785 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Portland, OR 97225, USA