Dance Classes
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Curriculum
Early Childhood Dance Classes
This program is designed to introduce young children to basic elements of dance and movement as they develop basic locomotor skills, rhythm, and coordination. Children learn the basics of classroom behavior and manners such as learning how to take turns, following or leading, waiting patiently, working with others, and having a positive attitude. Our students are trained in the concepts of movement sequencing, patterning, and spatial relationships which lays a strong foundation for the later development of mathematics, reading, and other academic subjects. Students also develop the intellectual concepts of self-awareness, creative expression, imagination, and basic health and body awareness.
Creative Dance (3 - 5 yr. olds)
This class is the first level of our early childhood program and will introduce very young children to the basic elements of dance and movement. Student will learn to dance both as individuals and as a member of a group as they develop rhythm, coordination, flexiblity, creativity, expression, imagination, self-awareness, and self-confidence. Lesson plans may also incorporate the use of various props such as scarves, bean bags, rhythm instruments and more.
Pre-ballet/ Tap Combo (5 - 7 yr. olds)
This class is the second level of our early childhood program. Students in this class will continue to work on the concepts learned in Creative Movement, but with greater complexity and more emphasis on the elementary ballet steps. This class will also be introduced to the basic fundamentals of tap which will help them to develop rhythm and fine motor coordination. Students who are seven years old at the conclusion of this course should be physically and mentally ready to begin study of the disciplined art of classical ballet as well as our subject-based classes.
Elementary through Adult Level Dance Classes
Ballet (7 yr. olds - adults)
A progressive series of classes in classical ballet technique beginning with the fundamental placement and terminology, working to build grace, poise, self-discipline, strength, balance and flexibility required for more intensive study. The higher level dance classes require a minimum of 2 - 3 classes per week. Ballet technique is recommended as a foundation for all other dance forms.
Pointe (10 yr. olds - adult)
Admission to this class is open only to those students who have met the requirements of several years of serious year-round study of ballet technique with a minimum of two classes per week. Pointe work will require three classes per week. Entrance into this form of dance is strictly regulated to prevent foot and ankle damage. Instructor’s permission is required.
Jazz Dance (7 yr. olds - adults)
Students will learn various styles of this contemporary dance form that is often seen in Hollywood, on Broadway, and on television. Classes include technique, stretches and strengthening, terminology, coordination exercises, progressions, and combinations. It is also strongly recommended that jazz students study ballet, since ballet technique is used in the upper level jazz classes.
Tap Dance (6 yr. olds - adults)
This American dance form will help students to develop rhythm, and coordination. Due to the fine motor control that is required in the feet, this class is not offered to very young students.
Hip Hop Dance (8 yr. olds - adults)
Students in this class will learn a contemporary style of dance that is seen often in today’s popular music videos. Class includes a jazz based warmup and strength building exercises, progressions and skill work, and a breakdown of street & MTV style Hip Hop routines. This is an excellent class for male students.
Modern Dance (Ages 12 yrs. - Adult)
Modern Dance can be a variety of things depending on the instructor. It began in the early 1900’s as a rebellion against the more rigid structure of ballet where the dancers would do everything opposite of ballet such as flexed feet, contorted postures, varied emotions and free flowing costumes. It was a more relaxed, free flowing style of movement. Then the second generation realized that ballet, along with other structured dance forms, had some good qualities they wanted to incorporate. As the years progressed, other forms of movement like gymnastics, yoga, and Pilates were integrated. In our classroom, you will see a mix of ballet, jazz, yoga, and Pilates, as well as the occasional venture into improvisation.
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