The Pre-Dance program for young children is designed to introduce our younger students to the different styles of dance that we offer in our regular dance program. All Pre-Dance classes include ballet, tap and jazz. Children seven and older should enroll in the regular dance program unless they are not socially or emotionally mature enough. Pre-Dance III should be considered in that case.

PRE-DANCE I - For children three and four years old with no experience in our program. Children must be three years old by September to enter the program.

PRE-DANCE II – For children ages four and five. Four year olds should have experience in our program and the recommendation of their teacher.

PRE-DANCE III – For children ages five and six. Five year old may enter this class only with previous experience in our program.

BALLET – The foundation of all dance forms. Body placement, flexibility, alignment, strength and technique are achieved through barre and center floor work based on the Legat System, Cecchetti Syllabi, Vaganova Technique and a variety of other techniques. Ballet III/IV classes will include optional Pointe work.

POINTE – For those female dancers who have achieved the necessary classical technique and strength. Pointe class concentrates on the transference of ballet steps from demi-pointe to pointe. Admittance to all levels with permission of Instructor only and with a required two ballet classes per week.

JAZZ – Jazz dance is a uniquely American art form. A variety of styles will be taught from primitive to the classic Jazz styles through the contemporary steps of today.

TAP – Standard time steps, clogs, soft-shoe styles and rhythms through the more complicated steps of the Tap repertoire.

MODERN– Modern Dance explores movement, space, rhythm and the dancer’s own creativity. A student will become aware of the endless possibilities of the human body potential and how modern dance can become an outlet for expression. It is inspired by nature, music, art, and human emotions. Modern I will contain a very basic technique study and improvisation. Modern II contains a more in depth look at differnet techniques of Modern and requires at least one level II ballet per week. Modern III is a more intense study of Graham, Cunningham, Limon, Horton and other Modern Dance Techniques. It requires previous Modern training and at least two level III ballet classes per week.

BALLET BODY WORKOUT: - This class is designed for the non-dancer interested in the art of ballet and the benefits of ballet training without the demands or difficulty of a standard ballet class. Basic ballet components are used to create a fun and balanced workout. No previous experience is required.

What is STOTT PILATES? - With an emphasis on breath, core conditioning and body awareness, STOTT PILATES exercise is a safe and highly effective way to stretch, strengthen and streamline your body without building bulk or stressing your joints. Performed on a mat or specialized equipment, STOTT PILATES is a fitness regime for a lifetime. The perfect complement to cardiovascular exercise, sport, rehab and life, STOTT PILATES exercises will leave you looking toned, feeling revitalized and moving with ease.

MAT CLASSES: - Join one of our regularly scheduled group classes or coordinate your own group of 3 to 6 people.

• Introduction to Pilates — Designed for those new to pilates. This class will teach the principles of pilates and introduce the fundamental exercise to establish a foundation in the technique. Introductory Workshops will be offered throughout the year.
• Essential Classes — Recommended for those who have had Introduction to Pilates with private or group classes, and are comfortable with the principles of pilates.
• I n t e rmediate Classes — Offer added challenge for those at a more advanced fitness level who are comfortable with a variety of pilates exercises.

REFORMER SESSIONS: - The reformer is a specialized piece of equipment used in Pilates exercise. It has a gliding platform, spring resistance and a rope and pulley system to facilitate a variety of Pilates stretch and strengthen exercises. We offer private and semi-private reformer instruction. To schedule a session, please speak to an instructor.

CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS: - Cathy Bernard and Liz Crittenden have both had intensive Stott Pilates training and are Stott Certified Instructors.

WHAT TO WEAR: - Comfortable, non-restrictive clothing. Try to avoid bulky garments which make it difficult for the Instructor to see your body movements and make necessary corrections. You may wear socks or go barefoot.

CANCELLATION: - We request 24 hour notice to either cancel or reschedule your session. Otherwise you will be billed to cover the cost of reserving the Instructor or studio space.

THE BENEFITS OF PILATES: -

• increases muscle tone and endurance
• combines strength with flexibility
• develops balance and coordination
• improves posture and alignment
• boosts core strength and stability
• refines athletic performance
• heightens body awareness
• relieves stress and back pain
• prevents injury

The regular dance program for children and adults is a full hour or more of one dance curriculum. To choose the correct class or classes, first look at the age level next to the class. These levels are guidelines, not absolutes, to tell you for whom the class is geared. Pick the correct skill level as follows:

LEVEL I - For students with little or no experience in the particular curriculum. Students start in these classes and remain there until they reach a degree of competency with the curriculum taught at this level. For many students, this process takes more than one year. The teacher will recommend when a student should proceed to the next level.

LEVEL II - These classes assume a student’s ability to correctly execute material learned in Level I working for speed and complexity as well as proper technique.

LEVEL III – These classes are quite difficult, requiring both technical ability and strength. They are designed for students with many years of training and taking multiple classes per week.

LEVEL IV – Advanced classes; permission of Instructor required. Level IV class requires that the student is enrolled in at least one Ballet class per week.