Classes

                 Using the French and Italian technique of classical movement, we begin class with exercises at the barre.  After a full warm-up students will do some center work with traveling combinations and usually end with leaps and jumps.  Ballet does require focus and discipline to receive maximum benefits.  Ballet can also be fun and creative while a child becomes fit both physically and mentally promoting good posture and self-confidence.  A Ballet class is required in order to take the Modern/Jazz combination class. 

Sonya’s Dance Academy

Determination & Distinction in the art of Dance

Ballet

Tap

                 Using a series of regulated and controlled rhythmical movements of the body, class is usually executed in center floor.  Ballet is needed for tap in order for the student to have good body alignment and turnout of the feet.  A good warm-up of the feet and ankles is needed to build speed and rhythm with the continuation of combinations of traveling steps across the floor.  Tap dance can promote rhythm and coordination as well as self-expression and the ability to work with others. Tap is offered as a combination class with Ballet.

Modern

                 A form of dance that was born out of rebellion so dancers could express themselves in a way other than classical Ballet.  Class is conducted similar to Ballet using barre exercises, center work and traveling combinations with more variety on positioning of the feet and body as well as the use of the floor.  Class is conducted from the many styles of Isadora Duncan, Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey and many others.  This form of dance also requires focus and discipline but also a sense of expression with the willingness to try new and unusual movements of dance.  Ballet is required and must be maintained in order to take this class.

Creative Movement

                 This class is taught as a Ballet/Tap combination with an emphasis on creativeness.  Ballet and Tap technique is conducted with the involvement of basic steps, coordination, counting and the ability to follow direction.  A great deal of repetition used along with certain dance games played throughout the year to promote discipline with creativeness.  There is no set syllabus for this class, for children at this age need structure but also time for self-expression.

Jazz

Certain Requirements

Classes listed are your basic technique classes for your child to start a good foundation in dance.  Certain classes require pre-requisites. Listed below are some of the requirements for the academy.

Up to a certain age or level your child will be enrolled in a combo class.  As development occurs classes become separated. 

The modern jazz class requires a ballet technique class, and must be maintained throughout the year.

The “Extras at the Academy” require ballet and modern technique classes, and must be maintained throughout the year.

Please see policy sheet on dress code, absences, payment options and other rules and regulations on the academy.

The Extras at the Academy

Ÿ   Pointe This class is available for the dancer ready to receive the admired pointe shoe. This  is a ballet class with focus on exercises of the ankles.  Students are required to take a ballet technique class along with this class for strength and control purposes.  This class is invitation only at the discretion of the instructor.

Ÿ   Performance  This class is available for the dedicated dancer along with their   Ballet and Modern technique classes. This class is a representation of the studio and works on a routine throughout the year to present at other performances other than recital. More information is available in the performance handout.

Ÿ   Improv. & Choreography  This class is available for older dancers and adults, exploring different ways for making routines. Self-expression is a vital part of this class. Abstract thoughts are encouraged to create dance pieces with meaning. This class is highly recommended for those who wish to participate in student choreography.

This studio promotes dance as an art form, focusing on technique and classical training for the recreational or pre-professional dancer.  An end of the year performance allows the students to show their artistic skills.  Our performance shows an emphasis on the dance and not costumes.