Ballet
Class structure for all levels
is essentially the same, with content based on appropriate developmental
skills for the specific age. Each class begins with barre work. At the barre
students learn correct posture and placement of the entire body. The exercises
in this section also teach balance and promote strength. They include various
types of jumps that are the building blocks for the allegro (jumping) steps
of classical ballet.
Following the barre warm-up comes stretching. These gentle exercises progress
in difficulty as students gain flexibility.
Essential concepts such as classroom etiquette, musical awareness, and spatial
relationships to other dancers are taught early on. The components of the
stage, theatre terminology and pantomime are explored during the year.
The last portion of class develops the locomotive skills that form the basis
for all ballet steps that travel.
Students participate in a variety of free movement exercises that teach
listening skills (responding to the tempo and mood of the music), levels
(high, medium, and low), and directions (upstage, downstage, stage right
and stage left).
We also offer Summer
Camps and Classes
© 2003 Banbury School of Dance
Site Design: Kenneth Schwoerke