CLASS DESCRIPTION
We hope the following explanations of the dance forms will provide an understanding of our programs and goals.
ALMOST THREE! (Ages 2½-3) Through dance play and imagination games, this fun and creative class introduces body awareness and explores how the body moves. Props are included for fun and help to enhance coordination.
CREATIVE MOVEMENT I & II (Ages 3-5) CM I: An introduction to dance, self-expression, creativity, rhythmic studies and musicality. CM II: More in-depth studies of the above & introduction to pre-ballet and preparation for more formal dance classes.
PRE-BALLET/TAP (4-5) A more structured introduction to formal dance class, including positions of feet & arms, simple barre & floor study, basic terminology and memorization exercises.
BALLET/TAP (Ages 5-7) A continuation of the above with stronger emphasis on proper execution of all movements and memorization of terminology and combinations.
BALLET/TAP/JAZZ COMBO (Multiple Age Groupings) Combo classes combine 3 different styles of dance in one class to introduce students to the basics of ballet, tap and jazz dance. We offer this class not only for the young dancer, but for older age groups as well.
BALLET The study of Ballet includes classical barre technique, center & traveling floor studies and various stylized combinations. Proper body placement, technique, coordination, grace, balance, flexibility, strength and musicality are all emphasized. Students will progress (age and level appropriate) to more advanced barre, adagio, allegro, leaps, and turns. Proper French terminology is taught.
POINTE The study of Pointe should be undertaken only after the student has attained solid ballet technique, has a correctly placed body, the necessary physical attributes and strong mental discipline.
TAP Tap classes include barre and/or center floor technique and development of different rhythms. Combinations and routines in traditional and stylized forms are studied. More advanced students work on more challenging rhythms, clarity of sounds and increase in tempos.
JAZZ Jazz classes include warm-ups, stretching, isolations, coordination studies, extensions, jumps, turns and leaps. Various styles of jazz combinations and routines are studied.
MODERN This class concentrates on becoming aware of the body in space with an exploration of levels, dynamics, traveling patterns, combinations, floor work, self expression and improvisation. Technique, flexibility and strength are emphasized.
HIP HOP Hip Hop starts with a center warm up, floor stretch, and strengthening & cardiovascular exercises. Hip Hop moves are introduced and focus is on hip hop combinations and routines. Students will have the opportunity to participate in the creation of moves and routines. This a fun upbeat class for those who want to dance and move, but who do not want to focus on technique.
LYRICAL is a graceful, yet powerful and emotional expression of dance. This class may incorporate ballet, jazz & modern techniques.
NEW! CONTEMPORARY DANCE is a style of dance that emerged throughout the 20th century encompassing many styles of classical dance; including ballet, modern and jazz. Contemporary dance focuses less on the classical technique of dance and more on the emotion of the dancer. This style of dance has been recently made mainstream through the popular TV show So You Think You Can Dance. Focus of the class will be on choreography and improvisation concentrating on balance, floor work, falling, fluidity, and the form of the body. Popular music that invokes emotion will be used in class. Since core dance technique will not be taught students should already have a solid foundation in ballet, modern, or jazz.
FANTASY DANCE (Ages 2½-4) Dance and move to imaginary stories and fairy tales. The basics of dance will be introduced while having fun and being creative.
STORY BALLET (Ages 3-6) For the little ballerinas! This is a fun, interactive way to learn ballet through story telling.
STRETCH/STRENGHTEN/RELAX (Teen/Adults) This class will help increase flexibility, focus and stamina through gently stretching, balancing and strengthening activities and will explore relaxation techniques.
It is strongly suggested that students ALSO study BALLET along with the other dance forms. Proper ballet training helps to increase strength, balance, alignment, flexibility and grace. Dancers who study ballet along with other dance forms tend to advance quicker and develop a stronger appreciation of dance.
