McMinnville, Oregon - Dance Class

Creative Ballet I (Ages 4-5) Students are introduced to movement and music through the wonderful world of ballet. Scarves, ribbons, and stuffed animals are among the props used to turn students into imaginary butterflies, fairies, princesses, and pink flamingos. Physical skills such as strength, balance, flexibility, and gross motor skills are developed along with the social skills of taking turns, following directions, and respecting other students. (Staff includes instructor and assistant)

Creative Ballet II (Ages 4.5-5.5) This class is a continuation of Creative Ballet I. It is geared toward the more experienced dancer in preparation for the Pre-Ballet programs. (Staff includes instructor and assistant)

Pre-Ballet (Ages 6-7) Awaken the dancer to music and ballet, coordination, and spatial/motor skills. Gentle guidance helps the beginner develop rhythm, cooperation, creative dance, basic ballet skills, and the first introduction to ballet barre. The classes offer an atmosphere of fun within discipline so the children can gain a sense of accomplishment as well as exploring their love of ballet. (Staff includes instructor and assistant)

Elementary Ballet I (Ages 7-8) Introduces elementary ballet exercises for mastering the placement of the body, legs, arms & head, and developing skills in the coordination of ballet steps. Basic musicality & rhythm, folk and character dances, and fun combinations help the dancer explore the art of ballet. Attendance: once a week; optional accelerated learning of twice a week available with instructor's approval. (Staff includes instructor and assistant)

Ballet II (Ages 9-11) During this period of study, the dancer builds on the Ballet I exercises stressing the development of the legs, feet, and body positions. Exercises on demi-pointe are being developed; musicality and coordination between movements are further developed; and fun and basic ballet combinations help inspire the budding ballerina. Attendance: once a week; optional accelerated learning of twice a week available with instructor's approval. (Staff includes master teacher)

Ballet III-IV These levels involve strengthening the ability in various turns and developing smooth connection of arms and body. This is also the level when basic pre-pointe and pointe work is begun. Attendance: twice a week; optional accelerated learning of three to four times a week available with instructor's approval. Mandatory attendance for beginning pointe students is four times a week. (Staff includes master teacher)

Ballet V-VIII These levels stress technical mastery of beating steps, more complex turns, developing smoothness of graceful movements & suppleness, harmonious movement transitions, more complex adagio and allegro, and developing elevation in the big jumps. Minimum of three lessons per week; four times per week is suggested. (Staff includes master teacher)

Open Class & Pointe I-II This class is geared towards beginning pointe students and adults who may want to attend more than once a week. It is also very appropriate for dancers wishing to improve their technique. (Staff includes master teacher)

Adult Ballet You are never too old to learn to dance! This beginning ballet class is perfect for the young adult, the mature adult, or the dancer returning to the world of ballet as an adult. Class combinations will be geared towards each level of experience with modifications given as needed. Attendance: once a week; optional accelerated learning of twice a week available. (Staff includes master teacher)

PLACEMENT & PROGRESSION: Students are moved by individual evaluation and assessment. They get moved up when they have mastered the curriculum of each level according to the instructor's standards, rather than by class or age. Please contact the director if you are unsure of your student's placement.

CLASS ETIQUETTE: students are expected to behave in a disciplined, responsible and courteous manner. Class will begin as scheduled. No student will be admitted after class begins. This rule is for the prevention of injury. Parents and friends may observe the first class of each month but are requested to be quiet and remain seated.