Creative Movement
Designed for the very young dancer (ages
3-5). This class stresses natural dance movement. It includes
stretching, music appreciation, rhythm awareness, creative dance
movement and basic ballet forms.
Kinder Ballet
Kindergarten students who have had at least
one year of creative movement and are ready for an hour-long class.
Primary I
Must be at least in first grade in school
(ages 6-8). The foundation class of the Cecchetti method of
classical ballet. Stresses simple, correct ballet technique,
response to music, creative movement and preparation for the Primary
I exam. Participation in the exam process is optional, but
encouraged.
Primary II
Children who have passed the Primary I
examination or who have had several years of dance and have the
approval of the teacher. Must be at least seven years old. The
second foundation class of the Cecchetti method. Continued emphasis
on correct placement and technique. Participation in the exam
process is optional, but encouraged.
Primary III
Children with at least two years of dance
and have the approval of the teacher (ages 8-10). The third
foundation class of the Cecchetti method. Syllabus work in
preparation for Grade I exam. Participation in the exam process is
optional, but encouraged. In addition to the Primary III class,
students are encouraged to take one non-syllabus class.
Grade I
Children who have passed the Primary III
exam with at least three to five years of dance and have director’s
approval. The first of the Student grades in the Cecchetti method. A
natural progression from the foundation classes with emphasis on
correct placement, technique, and terminology. In addition to the
Grade I class, students must take one non-syllabus ballet class per
week.
Grade II
Students who are at least ten years old and
have had at least three to five years of ballet. Must have passed
Grade I and have director’s approval. Simple beginning pointe at the
barre. In addition to the Grade II class, students must take one
non-syllabus ballet class per week.
Grade III & Beginning Pointe
Students who are at least eleven years old,
have passed the Cecchetti Grade II exam and who take at least two to
three ballet classes per week on two separate days. At least one of
the three should be a non-syllabus ballet class. Must have
director’s approval.
Grade IV – V
Students who have passed the Cecchetti Grade
III or IV exam respectively and who take at least two to three
ballet classes per week on two separate days. At least one of the
three should be a non-syllabus ballet class. Emphasis on double
pirouettes on pointe. Co-ordination of arms, legs and head at barre
and in the center. Must have director’s approval.
Grade VI - VII
Students who are at least thirteen years old
and who have passed Grade V or VI exam respectively and take a
minimum of three to four ballet classes per week. At least one of
the four should be a non-syllabus ballet class. Strong barre and
center pointe work with emphasis on triple turns on pointe and
beaten allegro. Must have director’s approval. This class is for the
serious student only.
