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sophia
Student
Lowell, Massachusetts
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Dance Class Advice?
Hi, I’m 15 and earlier this year I started Teen Ballet Classes. I go once a week, but I feel like that’s not enough. I’m always learning new things and I pick them up pretty quickly. My dance studio doesn’t offer any other teen ballet classes. They have other teen classes, just not ballet. For ballet, they only have Intermediate 1, 2, and 3, and Advanced/Pointe. What should I do? Should I ask for a more advanced ballet class, or should I try a different style?
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4 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1746
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Sophia !
No one can tell you what you should do to find an acceptable dance class for ballet because you already have your thought about it. I can, however, make some suggestions to consider to help you make a decision as to how to take your next step for a satisfying dance class experience.
I would say that if your parents paid in full for the ballet class that you are taking now, stick with it till the duration of the class is done. If it is a dance class which is paid for by the week or month, it would be easier to stop after you finish the week or month. Find this information out and act accordingly since you are not interested in this particular class.
Have you tried The Dance Complex in Cambridge ? I am not sure which dance school you are going to, but I have left a link to the Dance Complex for you below. There is also Lowell Arts in Lowell, MA that offers dance for teens (link is below). The Massachusetts Dance Academy in Charlton, MA offers an intensive, competitive program.
Dance is just something that is purposely repetitive and while training it's usual to sometimes do the same things over and over again to tune your abilities and experience the technique and all the nuances. Ballet is a great start for all of the other dance forms and if you want to venture out to other forms of dance, you should follow through with what you believe is the thing you want. Consider if you want to rise to a professional level or if you're doing it for fitness and fun. That will determine the investment that is necessary for you to proceed with.
This is a longshot, but ask your high school guidance counselor if you can take a dual course at a nearby college for Ballet. If you are achieving in ballet with private lessons, perhaps a college level Intermediate class would be what you're looking for. Find out what grade you have to be in for dual enrollment and what nearby college offers an intermediate level Ballet class.
If you can end you current ballet class in a week or a month (according to how it's paid) and you want to ask to be in a more advanced class or different class, it may be advantageous to ask the director of the studio if it's possible to switch to a different class for something you like. You do have options for this, but there is no harm in asking. Have you read the school's contract that perhaps you or your parent signed ? That could be indicative of their guidelines and shed some light on things. Your current studio is only going to be able to accommodate you with the classes they offer. It's not a question of asking for a more advanced ballet class, it's finding out first if they offer one.
So ask yourself if you want to stay with your current class to test your discipline or switch to a different genre for a fun activity. This can help determine your choices. I hope that this advice is helpful and I wish you all the best in making a decision that will make you happy.
THE DANCE COMPLEX IN CAMBRIDGE, MA https://www.dancecomplex.org/ LOWELL ARTS FOR DANCE CLASSES https://www.lowellartsmi.org/classes-adult-teen
No one can tell you what you should do to find an acceptable dance class for ballet because you already have your thought about it. I can, however, make some suggestions to consider to help you make a decision as to how to take your next step for a satisfying dance class experience.
I would say that if your parents paid in full for the ballet class that you are taking now, stick with it till the duration of the class is done. If it is a dance class which is paid for by the week or month, it would be easier to stop after you finish the week or month. Find this information out and act accordingly since you are not interested in this particular class.
Have you tried The Dance Complex in Cambridge ? I am not sure which dance school you are going to, but I have left a link to the Dance Complex for you below. There is also Lowell Arts in Lowell, MA that offers dance for teens (link is below). The Massachusetts Dance Academy in Charlton, MA offers an intensive, competitive program.
Dance is just something that is purposely repetitive and while training it's usual to sometimes do the same things over and over again to tune your abilities and experience the technique and all the nuances. Ballet is a great start for all of the other dance forms and if you want to venture out to other forms of dance, you should follow through with what you believe is the thing you want. Consider if you want to rise to a professional level or if you're doing it for fitness and fun. That will determine the investment that is necessary for you to proceed with.
This is a longshot, but ask your high school guidance counselor if you can take a dual course at a nearby college for Ballet. If you are achieving in ballet with private lessons, perhaps a college level Intermediate class would be what you're looking for. Find out what grade you have to be in for dual enrollment and what nearby college offers an intermediate level Ballet class.
If you can end you current ballet class in a week or a month (according to how it's paid) and you want to ask to be in a more advanced class or different class, it may be advantageous to ask the director of the studio if it's possible to switch to a different class for something you like. You do have options for this, but there is no harm in asking. Have you read the school's contract that perhaps you or your parent signed ? That could be indicative of their guidelines and shed some light on things. Your current studio is only going to be able to accommodate you with the classes they offer. It's not a question of asking for a more advanced ballet class, it's finding out first if they offer one.
So ask yourself if you want to stay with your current class to test your discipline or switch to a different genre for a fun activity. This can help determine your choices. I hope that this advice is helpful and I wish you all the best in making a decision that will make you happy.
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
John Evan
Member
1
Answer
Poland, Ohio
Updated
John’s Answer
It’s great that you’re enjoying your ballet classes and are eager to learn more! Since you’re picking things up quickly and feel like once a week isn’t enough, you have a few options:
Ask About Moving Up: If you feel confident in your current skills, consider talking to your ballet instructor about the possibility of moving to an Intermediate class. They can assess your readiness and might allow you to join a higher-level class if they think you’re ready.
Try a Different Style: Exploring other dance styles could also be a great idea. Taking classes in jazz, contemporary, or modern dance can improve your overall technique, strength, and flexibility, which will benefit your ballet skills. Plus, it keeps your dance experience varied and fun.
Supplement with Practice: If you’re not able to move to a more advanced class or take more ballet classes, you can always practice at home. There are many online resources with ballet exercises and tutorials that you can follow to improve your skills.
Ask About Moving Up: If you feel confident in your current skills, consider talking to your ballet instructor about the possibility of moving to an Intermediate class. They can assess your readiness and might allow you to join a higher-level class if they think you’re ready.
Try a Different Style: Exploring other dance styles could also be a great idea. Taking classes in jazz, contemporary, or modern dance can improve your overall technique, strength, and flexibility, which will benefit your ballet skills. Plus, it keeps your dance experience varied and fun.
Supplement with Practice: If you’re not able to move to a more advanced class or take more ballet classes, you can always practice at home. There are many online resources with ballet exercises and tutorials that you can follow to improve your skills.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5752
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Sophia!
Dance Class Advice for a Young Ballet Dancer
As a 15-year-old who has recently started taking Teen Ballet Classes, it’s great to hear that you’re enthusiastic about learning and progressing in ballet. Your desire to improve and seek more opportunities is commendable. Let’s break down your situation step by step to find the best course of action.
1. Assess Your Current Level and Goals
Before making any decisions, take some time to evaluate your current skill level in ballet. Consider the following questions:
How comfortable are you with the techniques you’ve learned so far?
Are you able to execute basic movements and combinations with confidence?
What are your personal goals? Do you aspire to perform, compete, or perhaps pursue dance more seriously?
Understanding where you stand will help clarify whether you should seek more advanced classes or explore other styles.
2. Communicate with Your Instructor
Your dance instructor is an invaluable resource. Schedule a time to discuss your progress and aspirations:
Express Your Interest: Let them know that you’re eager to advance in ballet.
Ask for Feedback: Inquire if they believe you’re ready for a more advanced class or if there are specific areas you should focus on before moving up.
Explore Alternatives: Ask if they can recommend any additional resources or classes outside of the studio that could complement your training.
Instructors often have insights into your potential and can guide you toward appropriate next steps.
3. Explore Other Dance Styles
While ballet is foundational for many forms of dance, exploring other styles can enhance your overall skills:
Contemporary Dance: This style often incorporates elements of ballet but allows for more freedom of expression and creativity.
Jazz or Hip-Hop: These styles can improve your rhythm, coordination, and performance skills.
Modern Dance: Similar to contemporary, modern dance focuses on expression and can deepen your understanding of movement dynamics.
Trying different styles may not only make you a more versatile dancer but also keep your training exciting.
4. Look for Additional Classes
If you’re set on advancing in ballet specifically:
Research Other Studios: Look for nearby studios that offer higher-level ballet classes or additional teen programs.
Consider Online Classes: Many reputable organizations provide online ballet classes that cater to various levels. This could be a convenient way to supplement your training.
5. Join Workshops or Summer Programs
Many dance schools offer workshops or summer intensives focused on ballet:
These programs often provide concentrated training over several days or weeks, allowing for rapid improvement.
They also give you exposure to different teaching styles and choreography.
6. Stay Committed and Practice at Home
Regardless of which path you choose:
Dedicate time each week for practice at home. Focus on strengthening techniques like pliés, tendus, and jumps.
Utilize online tutorials or videos from professional dancers as supplementary resources.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether you decide to ask for a more advanced class in ballet or explore other dance styles depends on your personal goals and interests. Engaging with instructors about your ambitions will provide clarity on how best to proceed while ensuring that you’re continually challenged and inspired in your dance journey.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Ballet Theatre (ABT) - Education Resources: Provides insights into various levels of ballet training and educational resources for dancers.
Dance Magazine: Offers articles on dance education trends, tips from professionals, and advice tailored for young dancers.
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD): A leading organization dedicated to promoting knowledge, understanding, and practice of dance globally; includes information about different levels of training available in ballet.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Dance Class Advice for a Young Ballet Dancer
As a 15-year-old who has recently started taking Teen Ballet Classes, it’s great to hear that you’re enthusiastic about learning and progressing in ballet. Your desire to improve and seek more opportunities is commendable. Let’s break down your situation step by step to find the best course of action.
1. Assess Your Current Level and Goals
Before making any decisions, take some time to evaluate your current skill level in ballet. Consider the following questions:
How comfortable are you with the techniques you’ve learned so far?
Are you able to execute basic movements and combinations with confidence?
What are your personal goals? Do you aspire to perform, compete, or perhaps pursue dance more seriously?
Understanding where you stand will help clarify whether you should seek more advanced classes or explore other styles.
2. Communicate with Your Instructor
Your dance instructor is an invaluable resource. Schedule a time to discuss your progress and aspirations:
Express Your Interest: Let them know that you’re eager to advance in ballet.
Ask for Feedback: Inquire if they believe you’re ready for a more advanced class or if there are specific areas you should focus on before moving up.
Explore Alternatives: Ask if they can recommend any additional resources or classes outside of the studio that could complement your training.
Instructors often have insights into your potential and can guide you toward appropriate next steps.
3. Explore Other Dance Styles
While ballet is foundational for many forms of dance, exploring other styles can enhance your overall skills:
Contemporary Dance: This style often incorporates elements of ballet but allows for more freedom of expression and creativity.
Jazz or Hip-Hop: These styles can improve your rhythm, coordination, and performance skills.
Modern Dance: Similar to contemporary, modern dance focuses on expression and can deepen your understanding of movement dynamics.
Trying different styles may not only make you a more versatile dancer but also keep your training exciting.
4. Look for Additional Classes
If you’re set on advancing in ballet specifically:
Research Other Studios: Look for nearby studios that offer higher-level ballet classes or additional teen programs.
Consider Online Classes: Many reputable organizations provide online ballet classes that cater to various levels. This could be a convenient way to supplement your training.
5. Join Workshops or Summer Programs
Many dance schools offer workshops or summer intensives focused on ballet:
These programs often provide concentrated training over several days or weeks, allowing for rapid improvement.
They also give you exposure to different teaching styles and choreography.
6. Stay Committed and Practice at Home
Regardless of which path you choose:
Dedicate time each week for practice at home. Focus on strengthening techniques like pliés, tendus, and jumps.
Utilize online tutorials or videos from professional dancers as supplementary resources.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether you decide to ask for a more advanced class in ballet or explore other dance styles depends on your personal goals and interests. Engaging with instructors about your ambitions will provide clarity on how best to proceed while ensuring that you’re continually challenged and inspired in your dance journey.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Ballet Theatre (ABT) - Education Resources: Provides insights into various levels of ballet training and educational resources for dancers.
Dance Magazine: Offers articles on dance education trends, tips from professionals, and advice tailored for young dancers.
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD): A leading organization dedicated to promoting knowledge, understanding, and practice of dance globally; includes information about different levels of training available in ballet.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Mary Ann Francis
Sales
3
Answers
Council Bluffs, Iowa
Updated
Mary Ann’s Answer
I would ask for advance class if they don't have that then, I would go to Dance .
The reason why , I say that is because it is good to do if your interested in cheerleading I didn't do ballet . I did dance . I think you should focus on what you enjoy . Then try doing both if you could it would give you experience and they work well together.
The reason why , I say that is because it is good to do if your interested in cheerleading I didn't do ballet . I did dance . I think you should focus on what you enjoy . Then try doing both if you could it would give you experience and they work well together.