Elite Dance Academy

Elite Classes

Preschool

Building on the basic elements of dance, students will explore movement in class structures that begin to expand on each of these elements (time, dynamics, space, body). Teacher lead activities will introduce dance vocabulary and concepts for ballet, tap and jazz at an age appropriate level to prepare students for future participation in any type of structured dance class.

Beginner

The goal of this class is to give the students a fun-filled learning environment to explore the art of movement. Students will be able to explore the fundamental concepts of ballet, tap and jazz. They will learn the five basic ballet positions, how to point and flex their feet, and locomotion movements associated with ballet and jazz technique. As an introductory level class, students will learn the basics of traveling through space by jumping, turning, and galloping. Most importantly, this class is designed so that the students will have lots of fun while building interest in the art form.

Elementary

The ballet bar will be used to learn basic footwork and the students will also execute center floor work and across the floor work. Students will gain musical awareness and develop attention skills while listening to the teacher's instructions. This combination class also focuses on the concepts of jazz and tap. In addition to ballet, jazz and tap technique, students will work with other individuals their age and practice working within a group.

Jazz

Classes teach basic jazz dance technique, terminology and movement quality with an emphasis on proper execution of jazz isolations, rhythms and style performed to contemporary music. Jazz is a fun genre of dance that draws on many other styles in forming its technique and expressive styles. Jazz dance uses almost every genre of music, from classic swing and Broadway jazz to current popular music. This is an energetic, dynamic form of dance.

Ballet

Classes emphasize the development of classical ballet skills with a focus on proper placement and alignment. Students will learn ballet vocabulary through barre and center work while building strength and flexibility. Students will learn and demonstrate basic ballet terminology. Students will gain musical awareness while dancing to classical music and develop attention skills while listening to the teacher's instructions. In addition to ballet technique, students will work with other individuals their age and practice working within a group. Ballet class reviews all basic ballet technique including positions of the feet and arms, proper body alignment, turnout, ballet vocabulary, barre exercises, across the floor, and center work. Classes will provide students with exercises that build muscle strength, increase flexibility, and provide a foundation that can be applied to all dance styles. While in class, the students are expected to constantly focus their bodies on proper carriage of the torso, arms, and back.

Pre-Pointe

This course is designed to prepare the dancer for full Pointe work. Emphasis is stressed on proper body alignment, strengthening of abdominal muscles, and ankles and strengthening of feet in order to execute accurate Pointe work.

Modern

Modern dance is a contemporary dance form that has its roots in ballet. Classes include floor and center work that incorporates the use of gravity and a sense of weight in the body on top of technique work. The movement vocabulary and range of motion used is endless and creative and draws on each student’s personal expression. Classes may include improvisation and creative exercises.

Tap

Classes emphasize the development and strengthening of basic tap technique and terminology highlighting the importance of rhythm and sound. These classes work proper technique, sound breakdown and traveling steps. A typical class begins with a leg and ankle warm-up, followed by progression work. We focus heavily on musicality, rhythm and timing, which is an essential part of tap training.

Musical Theatre

Class introduces dance forms found in musical theatre, incorporating elements of ballet, jazz, and modern! Also a study of acting, voice, and dance moves with emphasis on character study. Learn technique and gain confidence and stage presence.

Hip Hop

A high-energy class that uses the latest sounds in rap, R&B and pop music together with movements presented in an age appropriate manner. Hip hop encompasses movement that has elements of popping, locking, and breaking as well as freestyle movement to give students the opportunity to develop their own sense of style.

Tumbling

Focuses on the technical aspects of acrobatics as a compliment to the dance curriculum. This class is currently limited to competition team members.

Progressions

Concentrates on the technical aspects of leaping, jumping and turning by teaching a series of jumps, leaps and turns, weight and direction changes. The student develops balance, strength, elevation and body alignment.

Cheer Dance

An excellent way for students to get started in cheerleader-style dance. The class will focus on precision movement, beginner tumbling, stunting, beginner jumps, chants, and team-building. This class will also enhance flexibility and coordination.