Class Levels

Pre-Ballet Ages 3-4

Students are introduced to fundamental positions and movements of Ballet technique.  Creative movement, use of props and dance games are integrated throughout the class.  Students gain social and motor skills to support overall confidence and development. Pre-Ballet meets once a week for 45-minutes. 

Pre-Ballet Ages 5-6

Students are introduced to the fundamental principles, positions, and movements of ballet technique, building strength and flexibility, and moving to different rhythms. Pre-Ballet meets once a week for 45-minutes. 

Beginning Combo Classes Ages 5-6

Students are introduced to the fundamental principles, positions, and movements of Ballet, Jazz, and Tap technique.   Combo classes provide a half-hour of Ballet and half-hour of either Jazz or Tap.  

Beginning Ages 7-10

Students are introduced to the fundamental principles, positions, and movements of ballet technique, building strength and flexibility, and moving to different rhythms. No prior dance experience necessary. Students with previous ballet training from other dance programs may be placed in Beginner in order to establish the skills and understanding that Dance Institute identifies as providing an effective foundation for continued progress. Classes include Ballet, Jazz and Tap.

Intermediate I

Strengthening for Pointe readiness is introduced. Ballet technique continues to focus on clean, correct, and precise execution with an increased awareness of musicality and artistic expression.  Pointe technique is by Faculty recommendation only.  Classes include Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz and Tap. 

Intermediate II

Classes focus on building strength and developing stylistic nuance, musical phrasing, and artistic interpretation. Classes include Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary, Jazz, and Tap.  Teen/Adult Pilates also available. 

Advanced

Students continue to build on strength, endurance, musicality, and artistry.  Advanced level classes emphasize technical excellence and artistic maturity. Classes include Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary, Jazz and Tap.  Teen/Adult Pilates also available. 

Teen/Adult Pilates, Adult Tap + Adult Ballet

Take time for yourself and join us for Pilates or Adult Ballet.  Perfect for anyone looking to continue dancing, supplement training or get moving in a new way!  

Class Descriptions

Ballet 

Ballet focuses on body alignment, balance, musicality, and artistry.  It provides poise and the technique to support proficiency in other areas of dance. Ballet classes will help dancers with posture, flexibility, mobility, self-discipline, and self-confidence. Students are taught proper body placement while working on barre, center floor work, and across the floor combinations. 

Pre-Pointe & Pointe or Strengthening

Pre-Pointe focuses on strengthening the feet and ankles in preparation for the demands of Pointe technique.  Pre-Pointe and Pointe are by Faculty recommendation only.  All students are encouraged to take Strengthening or Pilates to supplement their technical training.  

Teen/Adult Pilates Mat Class 

Pilates mat classes focus on developing core strength, flexibility, balance and stamina. The instructor presents the exercises at multiple levels which allows students to choose to work at a beginning, intermediate, or advanced pace. Students learn to be aware of breathing patterns and spinal alignment while engaging the deep muscles of the core.

Contemporary

Contemporary dance focuses on building a dynamic range of movement supported by creative use of space, time and energy.  Students learn how to perform choreography with fluidity, strength and self-expression.  

Tap

Tap classes are designed to develop rhythm, style, and sound. Students will learn a variety of styles from Broadway to Rhythm tap. Exercises focus on building flexibility of the knee and ankles, coordination, and speed of movement. Emphasis is on developing proper Tap technique and producing clear sounds.  

Jazz 

The class focuses on learning elements of Jazz technique such as isolations, syncopation, and dynamic movement.  Students will work on building performance quality and stamina through experiencing a variety of Jazz styles.  

Hip-Hop 

A high-energy class that encourages students to bring their style and personality to the movements. Hip-Hop requires students to have the strength and stamina to perform successfully. Students will learn Hip-Hop vocabulary, fundamentals and combinations to develop coordination, challenge each student at their individual skill level,  and prepare students for more complex choreography.  

We look forward to dancing with you!

From Pre-School to Adult, we have just the right class for you!  

Questions about what class to take?  Reach out anytime at danceinstitute@uakron.edu or 330-972-7949.