This article is from the Ballet and Modern Dance FAQ, by Tom Parsons twp@panix.com with numerous contributions by others.
I don't know whether you can, at the very start, although if (s)he
makes class an unpleasant experience, (s)he's bad. One way to find out is
to shop around if you can. The guidelines in question 3.11 should help.
After you've tried three or four, you will know who's good, or good for
you, at any rate. Part of the problem is that a good teacher for one
dancer may not be so for another. The ideal teacher is the one who gives
you what you need just now. Again, don't hesitate to *shop around*,
even if you feel satisfied with your current teacher. Many people have
discovered wonderful teachers just because their regular teacher was, for
some reason, unavailable.
 
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